TTC Honey vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, there are a few options that stand out. Two switches worth considering are the TTC Honey and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream, both of which are linear switches. The TTC Honey is best known for its smooth and creamy feel, providing a frictionless typing experience. The deep and pleasant sound profile of these switches adds to their overall appeal. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream offers a heftier typing experience with a deeper sound profile than the average switch. With its buttery texture and invigorating feel, typing on the NovelKeys Cream switches is a delight. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.

By the numbers

TTC Honey Linear

Kailh NovelKeys Cream Linear

$9.99

$6.78 per 10

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the TTC Honey and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream differ in terms of the sound profiles they produce. The Honey utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This stiffer plastic material contributes to a more clear and resonant sound when pressing down on the switch. In comparison, the Cream features a POM top housing, which creates a unique and pleasing sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. This suggests that the Cream's sound when pressed down will be slightly softer and less sharp compared to the Honey.

Aesthetically, they also differ in terms of their transparency. The Honey's polycarbonate housing is clear, allowing it to be an ideal choice if you plan to use RGB lighting. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for better light transmission, resulting in a more vibrant and eye-catching lighting effect. On the other hand, the Cream's POM housing is not transparent, meaning it may not offer the same level of visual impact when paired with RGB lighting. However, this may appeal to individuals who prefer a more subtle and muted lighting effect.

It is important to note that when a switch has different materials for its top and bottom housings, the qualities of each material will be split between the two parts. The bottom housing plays a larger role in the bottom-out sound and feel, so the Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing will contribute to a sharper and crisper sound when the key is fully pressed. Conversely, the Cream's POM bottom housing will result in a deeper and potentially more cushioned bottom-out sound. The impact of the top housing, whether it is polycarbonate or POM, will mainly affect the sound when the key is released. This distinction in sound profiles adds to the overall typing experience and allows users to choose a switch that suits their preferences.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Honey linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Honey switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with minimal effort. In contrast, the NovelKeys Cream switch requires a higher actuation force of 55 grams, providing a slightly stiffer push feel. Moving on to the bottom out force, the Honey switch requires 50 grams of force to fully press down, whereas the NovelKeys Cream switch has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams. This means that the Cream switch gives a more substantial typing experience, requiring greater force to fully engage the keystroke. In terms of weight, the Honey switch is lighter overall, making it ideal for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of use. On the other hand, the Cream switch is heavier, appealing to those who desire a stronger push feel and more tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Honey linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, there is a slight difference. The Honey has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Cream has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Cream being slightly longer. Gamers, who desire faster response times, often prefer switches with shorter travel distances. In that case, the Honey switch would be a suitable choice. However, for those who prefer a more substantial key press, the Cream switch may be more appropriate due to its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the TTC Honey linear switch is best described as having a subdued sound profile. This means that when pressed, the switch produces a dampened sound that is not completely silent, but more subtle compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Additionally, it has a resonant sound profile, which means it produces a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience. The sound of both switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the TTC Honey switch provides a smooth and creamy typing experience. It can be attributed to the lubricant applied in the factory, as well as specific materials used. Typing on this switch feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, with each keystroke melting seamlessly into the switch. It is also described as frictionless, meaning it minimizes any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. The switch offers fluid travel and a subtle typing feel. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, similar to the Honey switch. It provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. However, some users may notice a textured or scratchy feel due to noticeable friction when pressed. This can be a preference for users who prefer a bit of texture in their typing experience. Another aspect of the Cream switch is that it offers an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel.

Based on the available information, the TTC Honey and Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Honey switch provides a smooth, creamy feel and a subdued sound profile. On the other hand, the Cream switch offers a heftier linear typing experience with a low-pitched and resonant sound profile. Both switches offer a buttery typing experience and can deliver a polished and refined typing sensation. To achieve similar results with different switches, it is important to consider factors such as board choice and keycap selection, as they can influence the overall sound and feel of the switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when deciding between the TTC Honey linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, if you prefer a lighter typing experience with a bottom out force of 50 grams, the Honey switch would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier typing experience with a bottom out force of 70 grams, the NovelKeys Cream switch would be more suitable.

In terms of sound, the Honey switch offers a subdued sound profile, providing a dampened and more subtle sound when compared to most switches. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream switch has a low-pitched and resonant sound profile, featuring a bass-heavy and mellow tone, as well as a clean and sharp high pitch.

When it comes to feel, the Honey switch offers a creamy, frictionless, and subtle typing experience. It provides a smooth and buttery sensation, gliding effortlessly across the keys with ease. The Cream switch, on the other hand, has a buttery and invigorating feel, offering a seamless, reactive, and uniform typing experience. However, some users may prefer the textured feel of the Cream switch, which provides noticeable friction when pressed.

Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Honey and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch depends on personal preference. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with a subdued sound profile, the Honey switch would be a great option. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier typing experience with a low-pitched and resonant sound profile, along with a buttery and invigorating feel, the Cream switch would be more suitable. Consider your typing preferences and the desired sound and feel to make an informed decision.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Honey Linear

$9.99

$6.78 per 10

Learn more

Kailh NovelKeys Cream Linear

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more