Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that they offer distinct typing experiences. The NovelKeys Blueberry is known for its sharp tactile bump and lower-than-average sound frequency, appealing to those who prefer a crisp typing feel with a deeper pitch. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches provide a medium tactility with a light touch and a neutral sound profile, making them a well-balanced option for users seeking a more subtle typing experience. Both switches have their unique strengths and characteristics, catering to 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
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The Blueberry features a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound, while the Violet Gold Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and higher-pitched sound. This contrast in sound profiles showcases how different housing materials can significantly impact the acoustics of a switch. Additionally, the use of clear polycarbonate in the Violet Gold Pro allows for better RGB lighting effects, adding a visual element to the switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, the NovelKeys Blueberry sticks with POM for a consistent sound profile, while the Dareu Violet Gold Pro opts for a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing materials further emphasizes the importance of housing materials in determining the overall sound characteristics of a switch. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the choice between POM and nylon bottom housing can cater to different preferences for sound feel and feedback.
When considering the impact of both top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience, it becomes clear that these choices play a crucial role in shaping the sound and feel of each keystroke. The qualities of the bottom housing material influence the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key. Understanding how each material contributes to the overall sound profile can help keyboard enthusiasts make informed decisions about the switches they prefer. Whether opting for the deeper and more muted sound of POM in the NovelKeys Blueberry or the sharper and higher-pitched sound of polycarbonate in the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing experience.
Weight
The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch. The NovelKeys Blueberry requires 55 grams of force to actuate and 80 grams to bottom out, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. The NovelKeys Blueberry would be preferred by those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Violet Gold Pro would be better suited for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming. Overall, the weight of a switch is an important consideration depending on individual preference for typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it is evident that the NovelKeys Blueberry has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Violet Gold Pro's 3.8 mm travel distance. The Blueberry switch offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a deeper key press feel, which may be preferred by some users for a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may cater to those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. Both switches fall within a range that is comfortable for typing and gaming purposes, and while the difference in travel distance is minimal, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of key press feel and responsiveness.
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 Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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
When considering sound, the NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is characterized by a low-pitched and resonant sound, offering a unique auditory experience that is both bass-heavy and sharp. In contrast, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile, making it a versatile option suitable for various typing environments. The sound produced by these switches will also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch is praised for its snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff qualities, providing a lively and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switch offers a stepped feel, with a subtle two-stage tactility that allows users to feel both pre-travel and post-travel during keystrokes. These contrasting tactile sensations cater to different preferences in typing feedback and actuation force requirements.
In conclusion, the NovelKeys Blueberry and Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Blueberry switch is known for its sharp tactile bump and unique sound profile, the Violet Gold Pro switch provides a balanced tactility and a neutral sound signature. Depending on personal preferences for typing feel and sound, users can choose between these switches to enhance their typing experience. However, it's important to note that individual perceptions of sound and feel may vary based on factors such as keycap material, typing style, and typing environment. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and can deliver a satisfactory typing experience for newcomers exploring mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a sharp and snappy tactile bump with a lower-than-average sound frequency, the NovelKeys Blueberry may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium tactility with a fairly light touch and a neutral sound profile, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the type of typing sensation you find most comfortable and enjoyable. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to varying typing preferences.
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