TTC Bluish White vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We are pleased to offer two mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences: the TTC Bluish White, a tactile switch, and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream, a linear switch. The Bluish Whites are renowned for providing a satisfyingly poppy typing experience. When typing on these switches, users can expect a snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the Cream switches offer a heftier linear typing experience. With a fairly deep sound profile, they provide a unique sensation compared to other switches. The Bluish White switch is categorized as buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, polished, and low-pitched, while the Cream switch is characterized as buttery, low-pitched, textured, resonant, and invigorating. These general pointers may give you an idea of which switch aligns with your preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Bluish White and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream have different materials for their top housings. The Bluish White uses polycarbonate, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream has a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. The POM material produces a unique sound that is particularly pleasing to the ear. While the two materials differ in sound profile, they both bring a distinctiveness to their respective switches.
Regarding the bottom housings, the Bluish White features a nylon housing, while the NovelKeys Cream utilizes a POM housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, produces a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. This is because nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the NovelKeys Cream contributes to the switch's deep and muted sound profile. While the two materials share similarities in sound production, they each bring their unique characteristics to the switches.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the split between the top and bottom housing materials plays a significant role. Pressing down on a switch will predominantly showcase the qualities of the bottom housing, as it influences the bottom-out sound and feel. The material of the bottom housing, whether it's nylon or POM, will greatly impact the overall sensation of typing. Conversely, the sound produced when releasing a key is primarily influenced by the top housing material. Thus, the polycarbonate top housing of the Bluish White and the POM top housing of the NovelKeys Cream will have distinct effects on the sound when letting go of a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, there are notable differences. The Bluish White features a relatively light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. In contrast, the NovelKeys Cream has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it medium-heavy.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Bluish White switch would be a suitable choice. Its lighter actuation and bottom out forces provide a gentler push, allowing for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces. This can provide a satisfying tactile feedback and a sense of precision for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel.
Although the two switches have differing force requirements, it is essential to note that using either switch will lead to similar results in terms of registering keystrokes on a keyboard. Both switches are designed to accurately actuate when the specified force is applied, ensuring the keystrokes are reliably registered.
The choice between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference. If one favors a lighter and more effortless typing experience, the Bluish White switch would be the better option. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial and precise typing sensation may prefer the heavier actuation and bottom out forces offered by the NovelKeys Cream switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, we can see that the Bluish White has a shorter distance of 3.5 mm, while the NovelKeys Cream has a longer distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, 4.0 mm is the most common, while 3.0 mm is considered shallow. However, there is a growing preference for shorter travel distances in gaming for faster response times. If you value quick and responsive keystrokes, the TTC Bluish White with its shorter travel distance would be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial keystroke with greater depth, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and its longer travel distance would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference for the desired level of responsiveness and tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
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, both the TTC Bluish White and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches have a low-pitched profile. A low-pitched sound profile typically results in a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, the NovelKeys Cream switches offer an additional feature of being resonant, meaning they provide a clean and sharp sound profile with a higher pitch. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be affected by factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, both the Bluish White and the NovelKeys Cream switches are described as buttery. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless, effortless, and uniform in sensation. The Bluish White switches also have additional qualities such as being mild, stepped, subtle, and polished. A mild switch offers a gentle typing experience, while a stepped switch provides a more mild tactile feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Subtle switches have a gentle resistance and a light typing feel, making them suitable for shared spaces. Lastly, a polished switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Conclusively, both the TTC Bluish White tactile switches and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switches offer pleasing subjective qualities. They provide a satisfying and poppy typing experience with their respective sound profiles. The low-pitched nature of both switches ensures a bass-heavy and mellow tone, with the NovelKeys Cream switches offering an extra touch of resonance for an immersive auditory experience. In terms of feel, both switches are described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid typing sensation. The Bluish White switches have additional qualities such as being mild, stepped, subtle, and polished, while the NovelKeys Cream switches add a textured option for those who prefer noticeable friction. Overall, newcomers can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel, but with subtle differences based on these descriptions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you desire a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a light bottom out force, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch would be a great choice. These switches provide a snappy sound profile and offer a buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished feel. With their low-pitched sound profile, they offer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
On the other hand, if you prefer a heftier linear typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch would be a better option. These switches have a fairly deep sound profile and offer a buttery, textured, and invigorating feel. They also provide a low-pitched sound profile but with a more resonant and immersive auditory experience.
Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific typing experience you are looking for. If you prioritize a tactile switch with a lighter bottom out force and a poppy sound, go for the Bluish White. If you prefer a linear switch with a heavier bottom out force and a deep sound, the NovelKeys Cream is the way to go.
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