United States: Free shipping on orders over $49

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry vs. Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear

An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to comparing the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, there are some distinct differences to consider. The NovelKeys Blueberry is loved for its sharp tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing feel for those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback. Additionally, its lower-than-average sound frequency adds a unique touch to the typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear offers a smooth and high-pitched typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a seamless keystroke without the tactile bump. Furthermore, its transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing make it ideal for enthusiasts who value maximum RGB lighting customization. The lightly lubed POM stem ensures minimal friction and enhances the overall smoothness of each keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your preferences.

By the numbers

Technical specifications

Actuation force

55g

Actuation force

53g

Bottom-out force

80g

Bottom-out force

63.5g

Pre-travel

3.00 mm

Pre-travel

1.90 mm

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

UHWMPE

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

Stainless steel

Spring

Double-staged stainless steel

Housing materials

The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches differ in their housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Blueberry switch features a POM top housing, which creates a deep and relatively muted sound. In contrast, the Aurora Clear switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, producing a sharper and crisper sound with higher pitches. The difference in housing materials not only affects the sound profile but also allows the Aurora Clear to be compatible with RGB lighting due to its translucent nature. While both switches have clear housing, they offer different sound experiences when typing.

Similarly, the bottom housing materials of the Blueberry and Aurora Clear switches also contribute to their unique sound signatures. The Blueberry switch has a POM bottom housing, resulting in a deep and muted sound. On the other hand, the Aurora Clear switch incorporates a UHWMPE bottom housing, a relatively newer material that produces bright and resonant clacks during typing. While the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Therefore, the differing bottom housings of these switches contribute to their distinct typing experiences.

In summary, the housing materials employed in the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches greatly impact their sound profiles. The Blueberry's POM housing produces a deep and muted sound, while the Aurora Clear's polycarbonate and UHWMPE housings create a sharper and more resonant sound experience. Additionally, the Aurora Clear's polycarbonate top housing enables compatibility with RGB lighting, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. It is important to consider these housing material differences when selecting a switch, as they greatly influence typing sound and overall feel.

Weight

When comparing the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, it is evident that weight plays a significant role in their differences. The Blueberry switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the WS Aurora Clear has a slightly lighter actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category.

For those who prefer a lighter feel, the WS Aurora Clear switch would be an ideal choice. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces provide a smoother and more effortless keystroke experience, allowing for longer periods of comfortable typing or gaming. On the other hand, if a stronger push feel and a more pronounced tactile experience are desired, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces would be the better option.

It is worth noting that although their forces differ, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience. The similarity in their actuation forces ensures that the initial keystroke will feel similar, providing consistency between the two switches. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Blueberry switch requires a heavier force than the WS Aurora Clear switch to fully depress the key. This can result in a more pronounced tactile feedback and a more substantial typing feel with the Blueberry switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and whether a lighter or heavier typing experience is desired.

Travel distance

Comparing the travel distances of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, we can see that the Blueberry has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Aurora Clear has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the NovelKeys Blueberry is more traditional and provides a deeper feeling when pressed down. On the other hand, the 3.8 mm travel distance of the WS Aurora Clear is slightly shallower, which may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. However, it is important to note that shorter travel distances can sometimes feel too abrupt for some individuals who prefer a more substantial depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Blueberry offering a longer and more traditional travel distance, and the Aurora Clear providing a slightly shorter and potentially more responsive experience.

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 Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.

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 it comes to sound, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches have a lower-than-average sound frequency with a clean and sharp sound profile. These switches produce a sound that is a little deeper than average, but not "thocky" in nature. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switches are characterized by a high-pitched sound when pressed. They produce a sharp and crisp sound which can be preferred by those who do not enjoy richer and bassier sound profiles. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, if you're looking for a low-pitched sound, the NovelKeys Blueberry switches would be the better choice, while the WS Aurora Clear switches offer a more high-pitched sound experience.

In terms of feel, the NovelKeys Blueberry switches are known for their sharp tactile bump, providing a snappy and invigorating typing sensation. These switches offer pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a reactive feel. They are also described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Some users may appreciate the textured nature of these switches, while others may prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switches offer a buttery and polished typing experience. They provide a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. These switches are mild in nature, offering a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The smooth and refined finish of the WS Aurora Clear switches, along with their factory lubing, ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel. If you prefer a snappier and more textured feel, the NovelKeys Blueberry switches would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a smoother and more polished typing experience, the WS Aurora Clear switches are the way to go.

Taking into account the available information, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switches and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switches offer distinct subjective qualities. The Blueberry switches have a lower-pitched sound with a sharp tactile bump, providing a snappy and textured typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switches have a higher-pitched sound with a buttery and polished feel, offering a smooth and gentle typing experience. Both switches excel in their respective qualities, and the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preferences. If you enjoy a lower-pitched and snappier typing experience, the NovelKeys Blueberry switches are recommended. Conversely, if you prefer a higher-pitched and smoother typing experience, the WS Aurora Clear switches would be a better fit. Regardless of the choice, both switches provide satisfactory results in their respective sound and feel categories.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are someone who values a sharp tactile bump and a lower-than-average sound frequency, then the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a snappy and invigorating typing experience, with a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and high-pitched typing experience with maximum RGB lighting customization, then the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch is the way to go. These switches have a bottom out force of 63.5 grams and provide a buttery and polished typing sensation. Ultimately, it comes down to your personal preferences regarding sound and feel.

Mentioned in this article