Jerrzi Orange vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Orange and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Jerrzi Orange and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream stand out as top contenders in the linear switch category. The Jerrzi Orange switches are lauded for their lightweight feel and clacky feedback, providing a lively typing experience for enthusiasts seeking a responsive and vibrant keypress. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches offer a heftier typing experience with a deeper sound profile, making them a buttery and invigorating option for those who prefer a more textured and resonant keypress. 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
37g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Jerrzi Orange and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream differ in terms of their housing materials. The Orange features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. This makes it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Cream utilizes a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the Cream's POM housing is geared towards a quieter and more subtle typing experience compared to the Orange's polycarbonate housing.
In terms of their bottom housings, the Orange utilizes a nylon material that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Cream features a POM bottom housing that contributes to its unique and pleasing sound profile. Both housings aim to enhance the overall typing experience, with the Cream's POM housing emphasizing a deeper and more muted sound compared to the Orange's nylon bottom housing. Despite the difference in materials, both switches provide a distinctive sound profile that caters to different preferences.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are divided between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Whether it's the sharp and clear sound profile of the Orange's polycarbonate housing or the deep and muted sound of the Cream's POM housing, both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different sound preferences. Overall, the choice between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing feel.
Weight
The Jerrzi Orange linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Orange switch is unknown, while the Cream switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. The lighter actuation force of the Orange switch may be preferred by those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as it allows for easier key presses. On the other hand, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Cream switch may be more suitable for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7mm, making it shorter than the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4mm. The 3.7mm travel distance of the Orange switch offers a slightly quicker response time compared to the 4mm travel distance of the Cream switch. Gamers might prefer the Orange switch for its faster response, while others may find the slightly longer travel distance of the Cream switch to provide a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Orange has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $2.30.
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 Jerrzi Orange linear switch offers a clacky and lively typing experience with a sharp and percussive sound, giving enthusiasts a responsive and vibrant feel. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch provides a deeper and more resonant sound profile, creating a bass-heavy and immersive auditory experience. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics, with the Orange being more subdued and clacky, while the Cream switch leans towards a low-pitched and resonant tone. Depending on your preference for sound intensity and profile, you can achieve a satisfying auditory experience with either switch option.
Moving on to the feel, the Jerrzi Orange linear switch is known for its feathery and easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for activation, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Conversely, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch is described as buttery and invigorating, providing a smooth and uniform typing sensation with pronounced feedback and moderate to firm actuation force. While the Orange switch offers a light and effortless typing experience, the Cream switch presents a more tactile and invigorating feel, catering to users who prefer a more engaging typing experience. Depending on your preference for typing ease and tactile feedback, both switch options provide unique and enjoyable typing experiences.
In conclusion, the Jerrzi Orange linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. The Orange switch excels in providing a lively and responsive typing experience with a clacky sound profile and feathery feel, suitable for users seeking a lightweight and easy-to-press switch. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream switch delivers a deeper and resonant sound with a buttery feel and invigorating feedback, appealing to users looking for a more tactile and immersive typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches depends on your personal preference for sound intensity, feedback, and typing comfort, ensuring that you can find a switch that matches your typing preferences and enhances your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Jerrzi Orange linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a lightweight and clacky typing experience with a subtle sound profile, the Jerrzi Orange switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy linear switch with a deep sound profile and invigorating feel, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch would be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing preferences and the kind of typing experience you are looking for. Whether you prioritize a lively and responsive feel or a more immersive and satisfying typing sensation, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences.
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