KTT Darling vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Darling and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream mechanical keyboard switches, it's easy to see that both offer unique typing experiences. The KTT Darling, a linear switch, provides a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. In contrast, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switches offer a heftier typing experience with a deep sound profile that is not overly loud. While the Darling is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', and 'Resonant', the Cream switches are described as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Resonant', and 'Invigorating'. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style; 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
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream offer different sound profiles due to the materials used. The Darling's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, while the NovelKeys Cream's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. Both materials have their own unique benefits, with polycarbonate being stiffer and more resonant, and POM offering a pleasing and unique sound experience. Despite these differences, both switches offer a high-quality sound profile that can enhance the typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Darling's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, with nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deeper and more muted sound. Both switches offer a similar sound profile when it comes to the bottom housing, providing a rounder and duller sound compared to the top housing materials. This showcases how the choice of housing materials can impact the overall sound and feel of a switch.
When it comes to typing experience, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when letting go of a key. Therefore, the choice of housing materials for both the top and bottom housings can greatly affect the overall typing experience. Whether it's the stiffer and more resonant polycarbonate of the Darling or the deeper and more muted POM of the NovelKeys Cream, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, it is evident that the Darling is lighter while the Cream is heavier. The Darling has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the NovelKeys Cream has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, categorizing it as a medium-heavy switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Darling would be a suitable option. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel may gravitate towards the NovelKeys Cream for a more robust typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Darling offers a slightly quicker keypress due to its shorter travel distance, making it preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream switch provides a bit more depth to the keypress, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Overall, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience you are looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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 KTT Darling linear switch is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched profile, providing a sharp and crisp sound with a resonant quality upon bottoming out. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offers a deeper, low-pitched sound that is also resonant. Both switches offer distinct auditory feedback that can enhance the typing experience, with the Darling being more high-pitched and the Cream being more bass-heavy. Overall, while the sound profiles differ slightly, users can expect satisfying and engaging sound feedback from both switches.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Darling linear switch offers a bouncy typing sensation, providing a spring-like rebound with each key press. In contrast, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch is described as buttery and potentially textured, giving a smooth and uniform typing experience with possible subtle friction. The Cream switch also offers an invigorating feel, with pronounced feedback and a snappy response. While the Darling focuses on a bouncy feedback, the Cream switch emphasizes a smooth and effortless typing sensation with potential added texture. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences.
Overall, the KTT Darling linear switch and Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offer contrasting yet rewarding typing experiences. The Darling excels in providing a bouncy and springy feel with a high-pitched, resonant sound profile, while the Cream switch focuses on a buttery, potentially textured feel with a lower-pitched, resonant sound. Users looking for a more lively and tactile typing experience may lean towards the Darling, while those seeking a smooth and uniform feel may prefer the Cream. Ultimately, both switches deliver quality performance and unique characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, consider the following guidelines: Choose the Darling if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, a chewy and substantial typing sensation with bouncy feedback, and a high-pitched, resonant sound profile. Opt for the NovelKeys Cream if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a deep sound profile, and a choice between low-pitched or resonant sound profiles, along with a buttery, textured, or invigorating typing experience. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force.
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