Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Jerrzi Violet are excellent options to consider. The NovelKeys Blueberry is preferred by those who enjoy a sharp tactile bump, providing a snappy and invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet offers a gentle tactile feel with smooth actuation, giving a balanced and pleasant typing sensation. While the Blueberry switch has a lower-than-average sound frequency and a textured feel, the Violet switch boasts a neutral sound signature. Each switch has its own unique characteristics, making them suitable for different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Jerrzi Violet, it is clear that they differ significantly. The NovelKeys Blueberry utilizes a POM top and bottom housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Violet produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound. These differences in materials directly impact the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Despite the differences in materials used for the top and bottom housings of the NovelKeys Blueberry and Jerrzi Violet, both switches aim to provide a unique and pleasing sound profile. The POM housing of the Blueberry offers a more muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Violet creates a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Violet contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the materials used may vary, both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing experience and provide users with an enjoyable sound and feel.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of a switch, it is important to note that each material brings different qualities to the typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch, such as the nylon bottom housing of the Jerrzi Violet, has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the top housing, like the polycarbonate top housing of the Violet, affects the sound when a key is released. By understanding how each housing material influences the typing experience, users can choose a switch that best suits their preferences in terms of sound profile and feel.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch reveals some key differences. The NovelKeys Blueberry has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Violet's 45 grams, making the Blueberry a heavier switch in terms of initial keypress. Additionally, the Blueberry has a bottom out force of 80 grams, while the Violet's bottom out force is unknown. In terms of weight, the Blueberry is on the heavier side, providing a more substantial typing experience, while the Violet offers a lighter touch which may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force, with the Blueberry being the heavier option and the Violet being the lighter option.
Travel distance
The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. With a 0.3 mm difference, the NovelKeys Blueberry offers a slightly longer key press experience compared to the Violet. This means that the NovelKeys Blueberry switch may provide a more substantial keystroke feel, which could appeal to those who prefer a deeper key press. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet's shorter travel distance could be favored by gamers or individuals looking for quicker response times. Both switches offer a tactile typing experience, but the slight variation in travel distance might make a difference in terms of personal preference and typing style. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a longer or shorter travel distance for your typing needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
The Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offers a low-pitched and resonant typing experience that is deeper than average but not overly loud. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch provides a neutral sound signature that is balanced and enjoyable, suitable for a variety of typing environments. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch is characterized by its snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff qualities, offering a lively and immersive typing sensation. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet switch is described as having a stepped tactile feel, providing a mild and smooth keystroke experience with distinct pre-travel and post-travel stages. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences in typing feel.
In conclusion, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Blueberry switch provides a sharper tactile bump and a lower-than-average sound frequency, the Violet switch offers a gentle tactile feel and a neutral sound signature. Choosing between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feedback and sound profiles. Regardless of the choice, both switches are sure to offer a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a sharp tactile bump and a lower-than-average but not "thocky" sound frequency, the NovelKeys Blueberry may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother actuation and a balanced typing experience with a neutral sound signature, the Jerrzi Violet switch might be more suited to your liking. Consider how you like your switches to feel and sound, and choose accordingly to enhance your typing experience.
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