KTT F2 vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT F2 and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream mechanical keyboard switches, one can't help but notice the differences in their sound profiles and typing experiences. The F2 stands out for its distinct hollow sound signature, providing a unique auditory experience. Its medium-light weightiness offers a comfortable typing feel with a lightly textured touch for added tactile feedback. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream switches offer a heftier linear typing experience with a deep sound profile that adds a level of resonance to each keystroke. While the F2 is categorized as ['Feathery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Subdued', 'Subtle'], the Cream switches are described as ['Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating']. Each switch has its own unique appeal, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
43g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
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 F2 and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches offer distinct sound profiles due to their different compositions. The F2's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound compared to the NovelKeys Cream's POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the F2 allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal that the Cream's POM housing may not provide.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the F2's polycarbonate and the Cream's POM contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the F2's bottom housing leads to a clearer and more resonant sound profile for bottom-out actions. Meanwhile, the Cream's POM bottom housing offers a unique and pleasing sound with a deeper tone that may be preferred by those looking for a more muted typing experience.
Overall, while the F2's polycarbonate housing materials provide a sharper and crisper sound profile, the Cream's POM housing materials offer a deeper and more muted sound. Choosing between the two would ultimately depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as well as any specific aesthetic considerations such as the use of RGB lighting. Both switches provide distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
The KTT F2 linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the F2 requires 53 grams while the NovelKeys Cream needs 70 grams, making it the heavier option. The lighter actuation force of the F2 may be preferable for those who type for extended periods or engage in prolonged gaming sessions, as it can reduce fatigue. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the NovelKeys Cream provides a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT F2 linear switch is 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the F2 switch may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, while the longer travel distance of the NovelKeys Cream switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press. Overall, the difference in travel distance between the two switches offers users the option to choose based on their personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT F2 comes in at $3.90 per 10 switches.
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 KTT F2 switch offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of settings and purposes. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch provides a low-pitched and resonant sound, giving a deeper and more immersive auditory experience. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the typing experience depending on personal preferences and the environment in which they are used.
In terms of feel, the KTT F2 switch provides a feathery, mild, and subtle typing experience, with a lightly textured feel that adds a tactile nuance to each keystroke. In contrast, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch offers a buttery, textured, and invigorating feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with noticeable feedback and moderate to firm actuation force. These differences in feel cater to different preferences in typing experience, from light and subtle to more pronounced and tactile feedback.
Overall, the KTT F2 and Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences in typing experience. The F2 switch provides a comfortable and lightly textured typing feel with a neutral and subdued sound profile, while the NovelKeys Cream switch offers a deeper and more immersive auditory experience with a buttery and invigorating feel. Choosing between these switches will ultimately come down to personal preferences in sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT F2 linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize a lighter actuation force and a subtle, textured feel with a neutral sound profile, the KTT F2 would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a heftier actuation force, a buttery, invigorating feel, and a low-pitched, resonant sound profile, the NovelKeys Cream may be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should depend on the typing sensation and sound signature that best align with your preferences and needs.
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