TTC Gold Red vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the TTC Gold Red and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream. Both switches offer a linear typing experience, providing a smooth keystroke without the tactile bump associated with other switch types. However, each switch brings its own unique qualities to the table. The Gold Red switch is best known for its buttery smooth typing experience and light-medium level of resistance. It offers a snappy sound profile that adds a touch of personality without being too ostentatious. On the other hand, the Cream switch offers a heftier linear typing experience with a fairly deep sound profile. It has a textured feel and provides an invigorating typing experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches offer distinct differences in sound profiles and aesthetics. The Gold Red's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, while the NovelKeys Cream's POM top housing produces a deeper and relatively more muted sound. Both materials are translucent, making them suitable for RGB lighting. However, the Gold Red's polycarbonate offers a clearer and more resonant sound, while the NovelKeys Cream's POM produces a unique and pleasing sound profile.
In terms of bottom housings, the Gold Red utilizes nylon, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream features a POM bottom housing, which also creates a deep and muted sound. Both bottom housings offer similar sound profiles, enhancing the overall typing experience.
It is worth noting that the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom housing of a switch. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is more pronounced. Conversely, when releasing a key, the top housing plays a more significant role in the resulting sound. Therefore, while the materials may differ, both the TTC Gold Red and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches are designed to provide a satisfying and unique typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Gold Red switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Cream switch's actuation force of 55 grams, making the Gold Red switch require less force to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Gold Red switch is lighter at 50 grams, while the Cream switch has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gold Red switch would be a suitable choice, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing. This makes it ideal for work environments or extended gaming sessions where endurance is key. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience may prefer the Cream switch with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. The Cream switch provides a stronger push feel, giving users a more immersive and satisfying typing experience.
Despite their differences, both switches offer their own unique qualities. If one desires similar results to a Gold Red switch but prefers the heavier forces of the Cream switch, they can achieve this by adding additional o-rings or dampening materials to the switches. This will increase the bottom out force without affecting the actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the Gold Red and Cream switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and overall typing experience when using either switch. However, it is worth noting that the travel distance alone does not determine the entire typing experience, as factors such as actuation force and smoothness also play crucial roles in how a switch feels.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Gold Red linear switch produces a thocky and low-pitched sound profile. This means that when the key is pressed and released, you can expect a deep, rich, and satisfying "thud" or a soft "knock" sound. The Gold Red switch has a neutral sound profile, which means it falls somewhere in the middle in terms of actuation force requirement and sound level. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile that is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. It is also described as resonant, providing a higher-pitched and clean sound profile that offers an immersive auditory experience. Keep in mind that the sound of these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Red switch offers a mild and silky typing experience. The mild characteristic indicates a more gentle typing feel, suitable for most users as it falls within a safe middle-ground zone. The silky attribute refers to an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimized resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The Gold Red switch is also described as subtle, meaning it has a gentle resistance while maintaining a light typing feel. Additionally, the switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The Cream switch offers a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. It is important to note that some users might prefer a textured (or scratchy) feel, which the Cream switch does not possess. However, it does offer an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback and snappy feel.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Red and Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Red switch provides a thocky, low-pitched sound profile, while the Cream switch offers a low-pitched and resonant sound profile. In terms of feel, the Gold Red switch is mild, silky, subtle, and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Cream switch is buttery and invigorating, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches provide unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a light-medium level of resistance, a buttery smooth typing experience, and a modest touch of personality in terms of sound, then the TTC Gold Red linear switch is a great choice. These switches offer a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, which is deep and satisfying. In terms of feel, they are described as mild, silky, subtle, and polished, providing a gentle and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a heftier typing experience, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch is a suitable option. These switches offer a deeper sound profile and are described as low-pitched and resonant. With an invigorating feel, they provide pronounced feedback and a reactive typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your preference for typing experience, sound profile, and bottom out force.
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