KTT Cream Yellow vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream

Overview

The KTT Cream Yellow and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, but they offer distinct experiences for users. The Cream Yellow switch is renowned for its distinctively clacky sound, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem that provides resonant audio feedback. Additionally, the lengthened spring of the Cream Yellow switch contributes to a uniquely bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream switch offers a heftier linear typing experience with a fairly deep sound profile, deeper than the average switch but not overly so. It is described as buttery, low-pitched, textured, resonant, and invigorating. These switches provide different tactile and auditory experiences, making them suitable for different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Cream Yellow Linear

Kailh NovelKeys Cream Linear

$2.75

$2.55 per 10

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream differ when it comes to their top housing materials. The Cream Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream utilizes a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and relatively more muted sound. While both materials enhance the sound profile of the switches, the Cream Yellow's polycarbonate top housing offers a brighter and more distinct sound, whereas the NovelKeys Cream's POM top housing provides a deeper and more subtle auditory experience.

The situation changes when we consider the bottom housing materials of the two switches. Both the Cream Yellow and the NovelKeys Cream feature different bottom housing materials. The Cream Yellow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Due to its softer nature, nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the NovelKeys Cream employs a POM bottom housing, which also contributes to a deeper and relatively more muted sound. These bottom housing materials have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, providing a more satisfying typing experience overall.

In summary, the differences between the KTT Cream Yellow and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream lie primarily in their top and bottom housing materials. The Cream Yellow's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, while the NovelKeys Cream's POM top housing provides a deeper and more subtle sound profile. On the other hand, both switches feature bottom housing materials that result in a deeper and fuller sound. This means that while the top housing materials may differ, the overall sound experience of the switches will be comparable in terms of their depth and fullness. Whether you prefer a brighter and distinct sound or a deeper and more subtle auditory experience, both switches have their unique qualities to offer.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, it becomes clear that there are some differences in terms of weight. The Cream Yellow has a slightly lighter actuation force of 50 grams, while the NovelKeys Cream requires 55 grams to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Cream Yellow requires 58 grams, which is on the medium side, while the NovelKeys Cream is slightly heavier with a bottom out force of 70 grams, falling into the medium-heavy category.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cream Yellow switch may be the preferable option as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. This can be beneficial for individuals who spend long hours typing, such as office workers or avid gamers. On the other hand, those who value a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the NovelKeys Cream switch due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. This heavier force can provide a satisfying push feel and may be suitable for those seeking a more tactile experience.

In summary, the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow and Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches differ, with the Cream Yellow being lighter and the NovelKeys Cream being slightly heavier. By considering the weight of these switches, individuals can choose the option that aligns with their preferences for typing comfort and satisfaction.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the travel distance of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch is 4 mm. The Cream Yellow offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the NovelKeys Cream. A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, while a distance of 3.0 mm is more shallow. However, shorter travel distances have become popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Cream Yellow with its 3.5 mm travel distance would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt and prefer a deeper keystroke. In such cases, the NovelKeys Cream with its 4 mm travel distance would be a better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Cream Yellow switch is best described as clacky. This means that it produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving it a crisp, bright, and percussive quality. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream switch offers a low-pitched sound profile with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. It also provides a resonant sound, which is higher-pitched and creates an immersive auditory experience. While the Cream Yellow switch focuses on a distinct clacky sound, the NovelKeys Cream switch delivers a deeper and more resonant sound profile. It's important to note that the sound of a keyboard switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and the keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Cream Yellow switch is known for its bouncy sensation. This means that the keys have a spring-like or elastic feedback, giving a lively feel and rebound when pressed. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream switch offers a buttery typing experience. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing experience. Additionally, it is described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. While the Cream Yellow switch focuses on a bouncy feel, the NovelKeys Cream switch provides a buttery and invigorating typing experience. Some users may prefer the textured sensation of the Cream Yellow switch, while others may prefer the smoother feel of the NovelKeys Cream switch.

In conclusion, the Cream Yellow and NovelKeys Cream switches have distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Yellow switch offers a clacky sound with a shortened bottom-out distance and a uniquely bouncy feel. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream switch provides a low-pitched and resonant sound profile, along with a buttery and invigorating typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a clacky sound and a bouncy feel, the Cream Yellow switch would be a great choice. If you prefer a deeper sound and a buttery, invigorating feel, the NovelKeys Cream switch would be more suitable. It's important to consider other factors such as your choice of keyboard board and keycaps as they can also influence the overall sound and feel of the switches.

Conclusion

To sum up, when considering the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences for sound and feel. If you are someone who appreciates a clacky sound with a distinctively bouncy typing feel, then the Cream Yellow switch might be the better choice for you. Its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem provide resonant audio feedback, and its lengthened spring adds to the bouncy typing experience.

On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper sound profile and a heavier linear typing experience, the NovelKeys Cream switch would be worth considering. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, it offers one of the heftier linear typing experiences available. The low-pitched sound profile of the Cream switch adds a bass-heavy and mellow tone to your typing, while still providing a clean and sharp auditory experience.

Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preferences for sound and feel. Consider whether you prefer a clacky and bouncy typing experience or a deeper and more solid feel. By considering these factors, you will be able to choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences. In the end, both the Cream Yellow and the NovelKeys Cream switches offer unique features that can enhance your overall typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Cream Yellow Linear

$2.75

$2.55 per 10

Learn more

Kailh NovelKeys Cream Linear

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more