TTC Gold Brown vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the TTC Gold Brown and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream. The Gold Brown switch is best known for its balanced nature, offering a slight yet satisfying bump while maintaining a moderate weightiness. Additionally, these switches have a rounded and softer sound profile compared to most switches, making them ideal for those wanting a tactile typing experience without excessive noise. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream switch provides a heftier linear typing experience, with a fairly deep sound profile that adds a unique texture to each keystroke. While both switches have their distinct qualities, it's important to dive in deeper beyond these generalities in order to make an informed decision on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Gold Brown Tactile

Kailh NovelKeys Cream Linear

$5.00

$3.28 per 10

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches differ in terms of their sound profiles and characteristics. The Gold Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This stiffer plastic creates a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who prioritize a defined auditory experience. Additionally, the Gold Brown's nylon bottom housing complements the polycarbonate top by providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nylon material absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound during typing. As a result, the Gold Brown switch offers a combination of sharp and clear top-end sound with a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound.

In contrast, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches feature a POM top housing, contributing to an incredibly pleasing and unique sound profile. The sound produced is on the deeper side and relatively more muted compared to the Gold Brown. This distinction may appeal to users who prefer a more subdued auditory experience. Like the Gold Brown, the NovelKeys Cream also utilizes a POM bottom housing, which further enhances the deeper sound profile. With the POM material, the switch creates a cohesive sound that is consistent throughout the keystroke, resulting in a satisfying and immersive typing experience.

While the housing materials of the Gold Brown and NovelKeys Cream differ, they both prioritize offering a unique and enjoyable sound profile. The Gold Brown's polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharper and crisper sound, while the NovelKeys Cream's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Gold Brown provides a fuller sound, while the POM bottom housing of the NovelKeys Cream contributes to a cohesive and consistent auditory experience. Therefore, while the sound characteristics may be distinct, both switches ensure a pleasant and engaging typing experience, allowing users to achieve similar results in different ways.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force of 55 grams. This means that the force required to trigger a keystroke is identical for both switches, resulting in similar responsiveness. However, the bottom out force differs between the two switches. The TTC Gold Brown has a bottom out force of 63 grams, which is considered medium, while the Kailh NovelKeys Cream has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it medium-heavy.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the TTC Gold Brown switch would be the better option as it has a slightly lower bottom out force. This would be beneficial for individuals who spend long hours typing or gaming, as the lighter force allows for increased comfort and reduced fatigue over prolonged periods of use. On the other hand, individuals who desire a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience might prefer the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch with its higher bottom out force.

Overall, while the actuation force remains the same, the difference in bottom out force provides users with the choice between a lighter or heavier typing experience based on their personal preferences and typing style.

Travel distance

The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a similar distance of travel. Both switches offer a comfortable and satisfying typing experience with their consistent and moderate travel distance. Whether you choose the Gold Brown or the NovelKeys Cream, you can expect a smooth and enjoyable keystroke without any notable difference in travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Brown switch offers a balanced experience. It has a slight, satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness. The sound profile of the Gold Brown is generally softer than most switches, without being completely silent. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch provides a deeper sound profile than the average switch, but not overly so. It offers a heftier linear typing experience with a fairly deep sound profile. The Cream switch has a low-pitched tone and a clean and sharp sound profile.

In terms of feel, both the Gold Brown and Cream switches are described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. They provide a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The Gold Brown switch is also described as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience. It is considered accented, providing a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Furthermore, the Gold Brown switch is described as polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Cream switch, on the other hand, is described as textured, which means it has noticeable friction when pressed. Some users prefer this subtle texture, while others prefer a smoother typing experience. Additionally, the Cream switch is considered invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel.

Based on the available information, the Gold Brown and Cream switches offer different subjective qualities. The Gold Brown has a balanced sound profile, a moderate weightiness, and a polished feel, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. It provides a satisfying bump and a softer sound compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Cream switch offers a heftier linear typing experience with a low-pitched and deep sound profile. It has a buttery feel but also features a noticeable texture that some users may prefer. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of sound and feel. However, both switches provide a smooth and enjoyable typing experience overall.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're looking for a balanced typing experience with a slight tactile bump and moderate weightiness, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch is the way to go. These switches offer a softer sound profile and a mild, buttery feel that is approachable to most users. They provide a safe, middle-ground typing sensation that is neither overwhelming nor subtle.

On the other hand, if you prefer a heftier linear typing experience with a deeper sound profile, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch is a great choice. These switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force and offer a low-pitched, resonant sound profile. They provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, along with a textured or scratchy feel that some users prefer. The invigorating switch characteristics of the Cream switch also create a snappy and reactive typing sensation.

Ultimately, your choice between the TTC Gold Brown and Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch will depend on your personal preferences. If you value a balanced typing experience with a slight tactile bump, go for the Gold Brown. If you prefer a heftier linear typing experience with a deeper sound profile and invigorating feedback, opt for the Cream switch. Consider your desired typing feel and sound, and choose the switch that aligns with your preferences.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Gold Brown Tactile

$5.00

$3.28 per 10

Learn more

Kailh NovelKeys Cream Linear

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more