Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream mechanical keyboard switches, one immediately notices their differences in material composition and typing experience. The Keygeek Raw switch stands out for its unique blend of Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon, offering a creamy yet lightweight feel right out of the box with a slightly textured touch. This makes it a great option for enthusiasts who prefer to hand-lube their switches and enjoy a mild, neutral typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch provides a heftier linear typing experience with a deep sound profile that is both buttery and low-pitched. This switch is categorized as invigorating and resonant, offering a textured feel that is sure to please those who enjoy a more pronounced 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
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Keygeek Raw uses a Nylon & UPE blend for its top housing, while the Kailh NovelKeys Cream utilizes a POM material. The Nylon & UPE blend is exclusive to Keygeek Raw switches, offering a unique sound profile. On the other hand, the POM housing of the NovelKeys Cream is known for creating a pleasing sound that is deeper and more muted. While both materials provide a different sound experience, they both contribute to an overall enhanced typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Keygeek Raw features a UMPE & Si blend, while the Kailh NovelKeys Cream also uses POM material for its bottom housing. Both switches have unique blends exclusive to their respective brands, but they both aim to enhance the typing experience with their specific sound profiles. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed, contributing to the overall tactile feedback of the switch.
Although the housing materials for the Keygeek Raw and Kailh NovelKeys Cream differ for both the top and bottom housings, they are designed to provide an enhanced typing experience through unique sound profiles. Both switches aim to create a pleasing sound that is deep and muted, offering a tactile feedback that enhances the overall typing experience. While the specific materials may differ, both switches prioritize sound quality and feel to cater to users looking for a unique and satisfying typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, the actuation force for the Keygeek Raw is None grams, while the NovelKeys Cream requires 55 grams. The Keygeek Raw has a bottom out force of 57.5 grams, while the NovelKeys Cream has a bottom out force of 70 grams. This makes the Keygeek Raw lighter in terms of actuation force, but the NovelKeys Cream is heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Keygeek Raw may be the better option, while those who prefer a more substantial feel may lean towards the NovelKeys Cream. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Raw linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, making it shorter than the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4mm. The Keygeek Raw's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the NovelKeys Cream's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper keypress. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their respective travel distances, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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 Keygeek Raw switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most users, whether they are beginners or advanced enthusiasts. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream switch provides a low-pitched and resonant sound profile that may appeal to those who enjoy a bass-heavy and immersive auditory experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Keygeek Raw switch is described as having a textured and mild typing experience, with a subtle resistance that is suitable for shared spaces. In contrast, the NovelKeys Cream switch offers a buttery and invigorating feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of tactile feedback and typing sensation.
Considering all the available information, it is clear that the Keygeek Raw and NovelKeys Cream switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Keygeek Raw switch provides a neutral sound profile with a textured and mild typing experience, while the NovelKeys Cream switch offers a low-pitched and resonant sound profile with a buttery and invigorating feel. Depending on individual preferences, users can choose between these switches to achieve their desired typing experience. If a user enjoys the sound and feel characteristics of one switch, they may achieve similar results with the other based on their preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, consider the differences in bottom out force, material blend, sound profile, and tactile feel. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a switch crafted with a unique material blend for a slightly textured feel, the Keygeek Raw might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier actuation force and a switch that offers a heftier typing experience with a deep sound profile, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream could be the switch for you. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
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