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TTC Flaming Purple vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream

An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two compelling options to contemplate are the TTC Flaming Purple and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream, both linear switches with distinct characteristics. The TTC Flaming Purple stands out for its resonant character, offering a slightly bassier sound signature that adds a poppy undertone to each keystroke. With a feathery touch and an easy-to-press bottom-out of just 47g, it provides a swift and effortless typing experience suitable for enthusiasts and daily typists alike. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches provide a heftier linear typing experience with a deep sound profile that is invigorating and textured. While the Flaming Purple is described as 'bassy' and 'feathery', the Cream switches are labeled as 'buttery' and 'textured'. 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

42g

Actuation force

55g

Bottom-out force

47g

Bottom-out force

70g

Pre-travel

1.60 mm

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Total travel

3.60 mm

Total travel

4.00 mm

Factory lubed

Yes

Factory lubed

No

Stem construction

Partial box

Stem construction

Standard

Stem material

POK

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

23mm single-stage spring

Spring

Stainless steel

Housing materials

The TTC Flaming Purple features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream utilizes a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. This key difference in housing materials leads to variations in the auditory experience when typing on each switch. While the Flaming Purple's polycarbonate top housing is known for its clear and resonant sound, the NovelKeys Cream's POM top housing offers a more subdued and unique sound profile.

In terms of bottom housings, both the Flaming Purple and the NovelKeys Cream have distinct materials that contribute to the overall typing experience. The Flaming Purple boasts a nylon bottom housing, which generates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the NovelKeys Cream features a POM bottom housing that complements the deeper sound profile of the switch. Despite using different materials for the bottom housing, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by providing a rich and satisfying sound when keys are pressed.

The combination of different housing materials in the top and bottom parts of the switches affects both the sound and feel of typing on the TTC Flaming Purple and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream. While the top housing primarily influences the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel. The split in housing materials highlights the importance of selecting materials that align with the desired sound profile and typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to individual preferences for typing on mechanical keyboards.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, it is clear that the Flaming Purple is lighter in both categories. The Flaming Purple has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 47 grams, while the NovelKeys Cream has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Flaming Purple, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke and bottom out. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the NovelKeys Cream with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, we can see that the Flaming Purple has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the NovelKeys Cream's 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Flaming Purple may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the NovelKeys Cream's longer travel distance may provide a more traditional and hearty feel for those who prefer it. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

The TTC Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.

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

In terms of sound, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch stands out for its slightly bassier undertone, providing a poppy and engaging auditory experience with a resonant character. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offers a deeper sound profile, leaning towards the low-pitched end of the spectrum. Both switches provide a unique sound signature that enhances the typing experience, with the Flaming Purple offering a touch of bass and the Cream providing a deeper overall tone.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, the TTC Flaming Purple is described as feathery and easy-to-press, offering a light actuation force of 47g that ensures swift and effortless typing. This makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions and appealing to enthusiasts and daily typists alike. In contrast, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch is noted for its buttery and invigorating feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and moderate to firm actuation force. Both switches offer a distinct typing sensation, with the Flaming Purple focusing on a light and effortless feel, while the Cream emphasizes smoothness and feedback.

Overall, the TTC Flaming Purple and Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switches each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Flaming Purple offers a bassier sound profile and feathery typing experience, the Cream switch provides a deeper sound and buttery keystrokes. Depending on personal preference for sound and typing feel, users can choose between these two switches to tailor their mechanical keyboard experience to their liking, knowing that they will get unique and satisfying results with either option.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, you should consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a distinct bassy and low-pitched sound profile, the TTC Flaming Purple may be the right choice for you. Its feathery and easy-to-press feel makes it ideal for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force with a deep and resonant sound profile, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream might be more suited to your preferences. Its buttery and invigorating typing feel provides a different typing experience compared to the Flaming Purple. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and how these factors align with your typing style and preferences.

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