Durock Light Tactile vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Durock Light Tactile and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream. The light tactile switch from Durock stands out for its gentle tactility, providing a pleasant alternative to the sharper tactile switches commonly found on the market. Typing on these switches offers a gentle touch accompanied by a soft sound signature. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream switches offer a weightier linear typing experience. They provide a deeper sound profile, more substantial than the average switch but not excessively so. Categorized as buttery, low-pitched, textured, resonant, and invigorating, they deliver a unique typing experience. However, let's delve further beyond these generalities so you can make the best choice for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches exhibit contrasting characteristics. The Light Tactile features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its translucency makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting. In contrast, the NovelKeys Cream utilizes a POM top housing that generates a deeper and more muted sound. While the Light Tactile offers a brighter and more resonant sound, the Cream delivers a unique, deeper sound profile that some users may find more pleasing.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Light Tactile utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Meanwhile, the NovelKeys Cream employs a POM bottom housing, similar to its top housing, which contributes to its pleasing and unique sound. Both switches exhibit characteristics of producing a deeper sound, although the Light Tactile may offer a fuller sound due to the sound-absorbing qualities of nylon.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play differing roles in sound production. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, the top housing plays a greater role in the sound produced when the key is released. Therefore, even though the Light Tactile and the NovelKeys Cream may have different housing materials, the overall sound profile of the switches may still exhibit similarities due to their shared qualities of producing deeper and more muted sounds.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, it's worth noting their actuation force and bottom out force. The Durock Light Tactile has a slightly lighter actuation force of 52 grams compared to the NovelKeys Cream's 55 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Light Tactile at 67 grams and the Cream at 70 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Durock Light Tactile would be a good option as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. This can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions, providing a comfortable and effortless experience. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream offers a slightly heavier actuation force, which may be more suitable for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel. This can provide a more substantial typing experience, adding to the overall satisfaction of using the keyboard.
In conclusion, while the actuation force of the Durock Light Tactile is lighter compared to the Kailh NovelKeys Cream, both switches have similar bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preferences regarding the weight and force required for a satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance as you feel the switch travel from the top to the bottom. Neither switch is shorter or longer than the other in terms of travel distance, ensuring similar results for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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 Durock Light Tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile that is neither too high-pitched nor too bass-heavy. This makes it a versatile option suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether for use at home or in a work setting. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch offers a low-pitched sound profile with a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. While it is deeper than the average switch, it is not excessively so. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the auditory experience during typing. However, it is important to note that the sound of the switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch provides a mild and approachable typing experience. It falls within a safe middle-ground zone in terms of its tactile feedback and sound. Additionally, this switch has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. The reduced friction and smooth key travel contribute to its overall sleek feel. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch offers a buttery keystroke experience. This implies a smooth and fluid typing sensation that is effortless and uniform. There is no mention of a specific texture with this switch, indicating a preference for a smoother, friction-free experience. Additionally, the Cream switch is invigorating, providing pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel.
Overall, the Durock Light Tactile and Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Light Tactile switch provides a gentler tactility with an angelic and jelly-like sound signature. It is suitable for those who prefer a moderate actuation force requirement and a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the Cream switch offers a heavier linear typing experience with a deep sound profile that is more bass-heavy and mellow. Its buttery and invigorating feel creates a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Depending on individual preferences, one can achieve different but equally satisfying results with these switches.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prioritize a gentle tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Light Tactile switch is a great choice for you. It offers a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams and is known for its angelic tactility. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a mild feel and a polished finish for a smooth typing experience, the Light Tactile switch will be approachable and provide reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, if you lean towards a heftier linear typing experience and a deeper sound profile, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch would be more suitable. It has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams and offers a fairly deep sound profile. Moreover, if you enjoy a buttery keystroke experience, the Cream switch provides a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your preferences for tactility, sound, and feel. Consider the aforementioned characteristics and make a decision based on what suits your typing style and preferences the best.
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