TTC Brother vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the realm of mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The TTC Brother is celebrated for its lightweight actuation of 37g, providing a tactile and satisfyingly crunchy sound signature that appeals to clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream presents a heftier linear typing experience with a deep sound profile, offering a buttery and resonant keystroke. While the Brother is lauded for its ease of pressing and stepped tactile bump, the Cream switch is praised for its textured feel and invigorating typing sensation. 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
37g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.20 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
17.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the TTC Brother and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Brother's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Cream's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, while the POM top housing of the Cream offers a more subtle aesthetic.
In terms of their bottom housings, the Brother utilizes nylon which gives a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound absorption properties. Similarly, the Cream also features a POM bottom housing that contributes to its pleasing and unique deep sound profile. While the materials may differ, both switches offer a rich sound experience that is influenced by their bottom housing material.
Despite their differences, the impact of the housing materials can be felt differently when using the switches. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when letting go of a key. Whether it's the stiffer polycarbonate of the Brother or the softer POM of the Cream, both housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, it is evident that the Brother has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Cream has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. Additionally, the Brother does not have a specified bottom out force, whereas the Cream has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Brother switch, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Cream switch due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. Despite their differences in force requirements, both switches offer unique typing experiences based on the user's preference.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, we can see that the Brother has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the NovelKeys Cream has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Brother's shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers, while the NovelKeys Cream's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feel for those who prefer a deeper press when typing. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distance, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on individual preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch offers a satisfyingly crunchy sound that is reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves, appealing to those who enjoy a distinct auditory experience. In comparison, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch provides a deeper, low-pitched tone with a resonant quality that offers a more bass-heavy and immersive typing sound. Both switches deliver unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, ensuring a pleasant typing experience for users.
In terms of feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch excels in providing an easy-to-press experience with a light actuation force, making typing effortless and comfortable while still offering a satisfying tactile bump. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch is described as buttery and invigorating, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force. The Cream switch also has a textured feel, providing a different typing sensation that may appeal to users looking for a bit of friction during their keystrokes.
Overall, both the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Brother switch stands out for its crunchy sound signature and easy-to-press feel, while the Cream switch impresses with its deep, low-pitched sound profile and buttery, invigorating typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a clicky or linear switch and your desired sound and feel, you can achieve similar typing results with either switch option, each providing a distinct and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you value a light and crisp typing experience with a satisfyingly crunchy sound, the Brother switch with its easy-to-press actuation and stepped feel may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more medium-heavy typing experience with a deep and resonant sound profile, the NovelKeys Cream switch with its buttery, textured, and invigorating feel might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific tactile and auditory preferences you have for your mechanical keyboard switches.
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