Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Wuque Studio WS Red. The NovelKeys Blueberry is a tactile switch known for its sharp tactile bump, providing a typing experience that is satisfyingly snappy and invigorating. It also produces a lower-than-average sound frequency, giving it a unique and textured feel without being overly thocky. On the other hand, the WS Red is a linear switch that offers a bouncy and responsive typing experience. Its 22mm double-stage spring adds just the right amount of weight to each keystroke, resulting in a satisfying and substantial feel. While the NovelKeys Blueberry excels in providing a sharp typing feel, the WS Red offers a classic sound signature with its familiar material blend. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision based on your personal preferences and typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Wuque Studio WS Red differ in their housing materials, which ultimately affect the sound profile and overall typing experience. The Blueberry features a POM top housing, while the WS Red utilizes a nylon top housing. The POM top housing of the Blueberry creates a sound profile that is deep and muted, resulting in a unique and pleasing typing sound. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the WS Red produces a fuller and deeper sound due to its soft plastic composition, which absorbs more sound and creates a slightly duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the Blueberry's POM top housing provides a more distinct and muted sound, while the WS Red's nylon top housing offers a fuller and deeper sound.
Similar to the top housing, the bottom housing also plays a significant role in the typing experience. The NovelKeys Blueberry features a POM bottom housing, while the WS Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing. The POM bottom housing of the Blueberry contributes to its deep and muted sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. In comparison, the nylon bottom housing of the WS Red absorbs more sound due to its soft plastic composition, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Therefore, the Blueberry's POM bottom housing provides a relatively more muted typing experience, while the WS Red's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch have different impacts on the overall sound and feel. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel. The qualities of the bottom housing, whether it is POM or nylon, will be more prominent in this instance. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice between the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Wuque Studio WS Red will ultimately depend on whether one prefers a switch with a distinct and muted sound profile (such as the Blueberry with its POM housing) or a switch with a fuller and deeper sound (such as the WS Red with its nylon housing).
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it is important to note their differences. The NovelKeys Blueberry has an actuation force of 55 grams, which is on the lighter side, while its bottom out force of 80 grams is considered heavy. On the other hand, the WS Red switch does not provide information on its actuation force, but its bottom out force is 67 grams, which falls in the medium-heavy range.
Considering weight, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the NovelKeys Blueberry, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This makes it an ideal choice for work or extended gaming sessions. However, for those seeking a more substantial and forceful typing experience, the heavier actuation force and bottom out force of the Blueberry switch may be preferable.
Unfortunately, since the actuation force for the WS Red switch is not known, it is difficult to make a direct comparison on this aspect. However, with a bottom out force of 67 grams, it can be inferred that the typing experience of the WS Red will have a slightly heavier feel compared to the NovelKeys Blueberry.
In conclusion, while the NovelKeys Blueberry offers a lighter actuation force but a heavier bottom out force, the WS Red switch provides a medium-heavy bottom out force with an unknown actuation force. Therefore, individuals seeking a lighter typing experience should opt for the Blueberry switch, while those who prefer a slightly heavier and more substantial feel might find the WS Red switch to be more suitable.
Travel distance
The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the NovelKeys Blueberry is more traditional, providing a deeper feel when pressing down on the key. On the other hand, the WS Red with its 3.8 mm travel distance offers a slightly shallower sensation. Gamers, in particular, often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. However, some may find the shorter travel distance to be too abrupt, and may prefer the deeper feel of the NovelKeys Blueberry. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for either responsiveness or a more hearty depth in the travel distance.
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 Red comes in at $3.50 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 offer a low-pitched profile with a deep and mellow tone. This creates a pleasant auditory experience that is not overly "thocky," but still provides a satisfying sound with a clean and sharp profile. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the sound of the Wuque Studio WS Red switches. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the NovelKeys Blueberry switches are known for being snappy and responsive. This is likely due to the presence of longer or dual-staged springs, which give the typing experience a lively and vibrant feel. Additionally, these switches provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, often described as "buttery." The overall typing sensation is invigorating, with pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the Wuque Studio WS Red switches.
Overall, based on the available information, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches are known for their sharp tactile bump, lower-than-average sound frequency, snappy and buttery feel, and invigorating typing sensation. While there is no specific information given about the Wuque Studio WS Red switches, it is possible to assume that they provide a bouncy and responsive typing experience, with a heavier actuation force that adds weight to each keystroke. In terms of sound, it is difficult to make a direct comparison without specific information about the WS Red switches. However, both switches are likely to deliver satisfying results, although they may have slightly different sound profiles.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a sharp typing feel and a lower-than-average sound frequency, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch would be a great choice for you. These switches have a heavy bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a satisfying and substantial typing feel. The sharp tactile bump adds to the responsive and invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a touch of weight to each keystroke, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch would be more suitable. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, these switches offer a familiar sound signature and a textured typing sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for tactile feedback, typing sound, and actuation force.
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