Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow. The NovelKeys Blueberry is a tactile switch that is well-known for its sharp tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing feel for those who prefer a sharper response. Despite its tactile nature, the Blueberry switch offers a lower-than-average sound frequency, making it a suitable choice for those who want a deeper but not overly "thocky" typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Yellow from Wuque Studio is a linear switch that combines classic materials with innovative engineering. With a double-stage spring and a delightful bounce, these switches offer a smooth and fluid typing experience. Additionally, the WS Yellow delivers a familiar sound signature that keyboard enthusiasts have come to adore. Its lightweight construction ensures effortless keystrokes for a pleasant and polished typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
53g
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 housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches differ in terms of the materials used. The Blueberry switch utilizes POM (polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings, while the WS Yellow switch utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings.
In terms of sound profile, both switches produce a deeper and fuller sound due to the properties of their respective housing materials. POM is known for creating a more muted sound, resulting in a pleasing and unique sound profile. Similarly, the softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, producing a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, in terms of sound, both switches offer a similar result with a deeper tone.
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 overall feel of the switch. As such, the Blueberry switch, with its POM bottom housing, will provide a distinct bottom-out sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. On the other hand, the WS Yellow switch, with its nylon bottom housing, will elicit a similarly deep and fuller sound profile, but with a slightly different characteristic due to the absorbent nature of nylon.
Overall, both the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches utilize different housing materials, resulting in slightly different sound profiles. However, they offer similar outcomes with a deeper tone. The impact of the housing materials is divided between the top and bottom housings, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Blueberry has an actuation force of 55 grams, which means it requires a relatively heavier push to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the WS Yellow is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare. However, the bottom out force of the Blueberry is 80 grams, indicating that it requires a significant amount of force to press the key all the way down. On the other hand, the WS Yellow has a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it lighter in comparison. These differences in force make the Blueberry switch suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the WS Yellow switch is ideal for individuals looking for a lighter typing experience, which allows for longer periods of comfortable typing or gaming. In summary, while the Blueberry is heavier in both actuation and bottom out force, the exact actuation force of the WS Yellow is unknown, but its bottom out force is comparatively lighter.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, it is clear that the WS Yellow has a shorter travel distance at 3.8 mm, while the Blueberry has a travel distance of 4.0 mm. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Blueberry is more traditional, offering a deeper and more satisfying key press for those who prefer a hearty depth to their typing experience. On the other hand, the 3.8mm travel distance of the WS Yellow is slightly shallower, catering to gamers and individuals seeking faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - a shorter travel distance for a more responsive typing experience, or a longer travel distance for those who prefer a deeper and more satisfying keystroke.
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 Yellow 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
The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is best known for its sharp tactile bump, providing a distinct and satisfying typing feel. When it comes to sound, the Blueberry switch offers a lower-than-average frequency, creating a deeper but not overly "thocky" sound profile. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch is recognized for its timeless fusion of classic materials and cutting-edge engineering. These switches feature a 22mm double-stage spring that delivers a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce. In terms of sound, the WS Yellow offers a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts adore, although the specific details are unknown.
When comparing the feel of the switches, the NovelKeys Blueberry is described as snappy, providing a super responsive typing experience. It offers pronounced feedback and a snappy and reactive feel, creating an invigorating typing sensation. The Blueberry switch is also described as buttery, meaning it offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. However, it is unclear whether this switch is textured or stiff.
On the other hand, the WS Yellow is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. This can be attributed to lubrication in the switch or specific materials used. The WS Yellow switch is also described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that most users will find approachable. Additionally, the switch is said to be polished, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In summary, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offers a sharp tactile bump with a lower-than-average sound frequency. It provides a snappy and invigorating typing experience, although its textural characteristics are unknown. The Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, on the other hand, delivers a pleasant bounce and a familiar sound signature. It offers a creamy and mild typing experience with a polished finish. Overall, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are someone who prefers a sharp typing feel and enjoys 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, offering a snappy and invigorating typing sensation. You can expect a clean and sharp sound profile with a lower-pitched tone. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience with a familiar sound signature, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch would be the better option. With a medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams, these switches provide effortless keystrokes and a satisfying bounce. They are described as creamy, mild, and polished, offering a silky sensation and reduced friction. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for feel and sound, so consider these factors carefully before making a decision.
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