TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream offer distinct typing experiences. The Gold Brown Pro is a tactile switch that provides subtle, nuanced feedback with a gentle tactile bump, creating a background presence for immersive typing without loud distractions. In contrast, the NovelKeys Cream is a linear switch that offers a heftier typing experience with a deep sound profile, making each keystroke resonate. While the Gold Brown Pro is perfect for those who prefer understated tactile experiences, the Cream switches cater to those who enjoy a more 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
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream, one key difference is in the top housing material used. The Gold Brown Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream utilizes a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Brown Pro may be preferred for those looking for a sharper and higher-pitched sound, while the POM top housing of the NovelKeys Cream may appeal to those seeking a deeper and more subdued sound.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Gold Brown Pro uses a nylon bottom housing, which leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the NovelKeys Cream also utilizes a POM bottom housing, which contributes to a deep and muted sound profile. However, it's worth noting that the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, so the nylon bottom housing of the Gold Brown Pro may provide a slightly different typing experience compared to the POM bottom housing of the NovelKeys Cream. Overall, both housing materials offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and typing feel.
While there are differences in the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Brown Pro creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the POM top housing of the NovelKeys Cream produces a deeper and more muted sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Gold Brown Pro leads to a fuller sound profile, while the POM bottom housing of the NovelKeys Cream also contributes to a deep and muted sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, the Gold Brown Pro is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams, whereas the NovelKeys Cream is heavier with an actuation force of 55 grams. The Gold Brown Pro lacks information on bottom out force, while the NovelKeys Cream has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it medium-heavy. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods, the Gold Brown Pro may be the better choice, while those looking for a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the NovelKeys Cream. Both switches have their own advantages depending on personal preference, with similar results achievable for users based on their weight considerations.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, it is evident that the TTC Gold Brown Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the NovelKeys Cream's 4 mm. The 0.2 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall typing experience. Players who value quicker response times may prefer the Gold Brown Pro due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the NovelKeys Cream. Ultimately, both switches offer a balance between depth and responsiveness, catering to different preferences. Overall, selecting the switch with the desired travel distance is crucial in achieving the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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 TTC Gold Brown Pro offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, creating a deep and rich auditory experience that is not overly loud or distracting. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream provides a low-pitched and resonant sound, offering a clean and sharp tone that may be more noticeable than the Gold Brown Pro. Depending on personal preference, the Gold Brown Pro's subtle and neutral sound may be more appealing for those who prefer a quieter typing experience, while the Cream's resonant sound may cater to individuals who enjoy a more distinctive auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Brown Pro is described as polished, silky, mild, subtle, and stepped, resulting in a smooth, gentle, and refined typing experience with a subtle tactile bump that is not overpowering. In contrast, the NovelKeys Cream is characterized as buttery, textured, and invigorating, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke with noticeable friction and pronounced feedback. Those who prefer a softer and more subtle tactile feel may gravitate towards the Gold Brown Pro, while those who enjoy a more prominent and invigorating typing sensation may lean towards the Cream.
Overall, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the NovelKeys Cream offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Brown Pro provides a subdued and understated tactile experience with a quiet and neutral sound profile, ideal for those who prioritize a subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream delivers a more robust and distinctive typing feel with a deeper and resonant sound, catering to individuals who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, with both switches offering unique qualities for a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch or the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, it's important to think about your preferences in typing experience. If you value a subtle tactile feedback with a subdued sound profile, and prefer switches with a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience, then the TTC Gold Brown Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a deeper sound profile and a heftier typing experience that offers pronounced feedback and a snappy feel, then the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch might be a better fit for your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
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