Gateron Aliaz vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Aliaz and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream are two popular options with distinct characteristics to consider. The Aliaz switch is a tactile switch designed for quiet environments, providing a medium-heavy weight and a substantial feel to each keystroke. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream is a linear switch known for offering a heftier typing experience with a deep sound profile. While the Aliaz switch is praised for its 'Silky', 'Muted', and 'Polished' attributes, the NovelKeys Cream is appreciated for being 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Resonant', and 'Invigorating'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal 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
60g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream, it is evident that they both offer unique sound profiles based on their respective materials. The Aliaz's polycarbonate top and bottom housings create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the NovelKeys Cream's POM housings produce a deeper and more muted sound. This difference in sound can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users, as some may prefer the sharpness of polycarbonate while others may enjoy the deeper sound of POM.
In terms of aesthetics, the Aliaz's polycarbonate housing is more likely to feature clear housings, making it ideal for users who plan to use RGB lighting. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream's POM housing may not have the same level of translucency, which could affect the overall appearance of the switch. However, the unique sound profile produced by the POM material may be more appealing to some users, outweighing any aesthetic concerns.
While both the Gateron Aliaz and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials, the impact of each material is split between the top and bottom housings of the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when the key is released. This division of qualities in the housing materials allows for a balanced typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their preference for a lighter or heavier key feel. Ultimately, the Aliaz offers a heavier typing experience while the NovelKeys Cream provides a slightly lighter option.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that you can expect similar results in terms of the keypress feel and overall typing experience when using either of these switches. The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a keyboard switch, as it can affect typing speed, comfort, and overall preference. In this case, both switches offer a moderate travel distance that can provide a satisfying typing experience for users who prefer a standard keypress depth. Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Aliaz and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream may come down to other factors such as tactile feedback, actuation force, and overall switch design.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream 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 Cream for $6.25.
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 Gateron Aliaz switch offers a muted experience, perfect for those looking for a quieter typing environment such as in an office setting. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch provides a low-pitched and resonant sound profile, offering a deeper and more immersive auditory experience. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics, so choosing between them will depend on your preference for sound profile and volume.
When it comes to feel, the Aliaz switch is described as silky and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with minimal resistance. In contrast, the NovelKeys Cream switch is characterized as buttery, textured, and invigorating, offering a smooth yet invigorating typing sensation with noticeable feedback. The choice between these switches will ultimately come down to whether you prefer a smoother or more textured feel to your keystrokes.
In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of both sound and feel. The Aliaz is best suited for those looking for a quieter typing experience with a medium-heavy weight and a substantial feel to each keystroke. Conversely, the NovelKeys Cream switch provides a heftier linear typing experience with a deep and resonant sound profile, along with a buttery and invigorating feel to the keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, as both offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch or the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, it's important to keep in mind your environment and personal preferences. If you work in a quiet office setting and prefer a substantial feel with each keystroke, the Aliaz switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heftier linear typing experience with a deep sound profile and prefer a buttery, invigorating feel, the NovelKeys Cream switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your individual typing style and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. Consider factors like sound, feel, and bottom out force to determine which switch aligns best with your preferences.
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