Gateron Luciola vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream

Overview

The Gateron Luciola and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Luciola switches are best known for their eye-catching glow in the dark feature. They have a medium heft, providing a smooth and bouncy typing feel. Additionally, their hollow sound profile is reminiscent of a can of spray paint being shaken. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream switches offer a heftier linear typing experience. Typing on them produces a fairly deep sound profile, which is deeper than the average switch but not overly so. These switches are categorized as buttery, low-pitched, textured, resonant, and invigorating. Both switches have their merits, providing different sensations while typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Luciola Linear

Kailh NovelKeys Cream Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Luciola and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream have different housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles. The Luciola utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This creates a satisfying thin and clacky sound when typing, giving it a distinct and lively feel.

In contrast, the NovelKeys Cream features a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. The POM material provides a unique sound profile that is different from the Luciola's INK blend. The Cream's sound is characterized by its pleasing and less sharp tones, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience.

While the top and bottom housings offer different sound profiles for each switch, they both play a significant role in the overall typing experience. When pressing down on a key, the qualities of the bottom housing become more pronounced, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, when letting go of a key, the top housing becomes more influential in determining the sound produced.

Overall, the Luciola and the Cream provide distinct sound characteristics due to their different housing materials. The Luciola's INK blend creates a clacky and higher-pitched sound, while the Cream's POM material delivers a deeper and relatively more muted sound. However, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different sound profiles.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Luciola has a relatively consistent force throughout, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, both falling into the medium range. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream has the same actuation force of 55 grams, but a slightly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, making it medium-heavy.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Luciola switch would be a suitable choice. Its relatively lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for a smoother and easier keystroke, especially during longer typing sessions or intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial feel and a stronger push when typing may prefer the NovelKeys Cream switch. With a slightly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, it provides a more tactile response and a satisfying typing experience.

While the actuation forces of both switches are the same, it is the bottom out force where the main difference lies. Those looking for a similar feel to the NovelKeys Cream switch without the extra force could achieve comparable results with the Luciola switch by applying a slight amount of additional pressure during typing to reach a similar level of resistance. However, it is important to note that the NovelKeys Cream switch is inherently heavier in terms of bottom out force.

Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch depends on individual preferences. Whether it be a preference for a lighter typing experience or a desire for a stronger push feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different user needs.

Travel distance

The Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the NovelKeys Cream has a slightly longer distance compared to the Luciola. A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, offering a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, a travel distance of 3.6 mm is slightly shorter, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. However, for those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when typing, the longer travel distance of the NovelKeys Cream switch may be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is best described as a clacky and chirpy switch. It produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, offering a crisp and bright acoustic profile. Additionally, it has a unique chirpy characteristic that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch has a low-pitched sound profile. It features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. When typing on the NovelKeys Cream, you can expect a clean and sharp auditory experience. However, it is worth noting that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the Gateron Luciola and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream demonstrate a buttery typing sensation. When referring to the feel, a buttery switch implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. This consistency in feel is something that both switches offer to users. Moreover, the Luciola is described as snappy, which means it is highly responsive thanks to its longer or dual-staged springs. The Cream switch, on the other hand, has an invigorating feel, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel.

Considering all the available information, the Gateron Luciola and Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switches have their strengths and unique qualities. The Luciola is characterized by its eye-catching glow in the dark feature and a medium heft. It provides a smooth and bouncy typing feel, along with a distinct hollow sound profile that resembles the sound of a can of spray paint being shaken. On the other hand, the Cream switch offers a heftier linear typing experience and a deeper sound profile than the average switch, without being overly so. Both switches provide a buttery typing experience, ensuring a smooth and fluid keystroke feel. However, it is important to consider that personal preferences and other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps can also influence the overall experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. The Luciola has a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it medium in weight, while the NovelKeys Cream has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, leaning towards medium-heavy. If you prefer a switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Luciola may be more suitable for you.

In terms of sound, the Luciola offers a range of options including clacky, chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched sounds. These switches can produce sharp, crisp, and bright sounds when pressed. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream has a low-pitched and resonant sound profile. If you enjoy a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, the Cream switches may be the better choice for you.

When it comes to typing feel, both switches offer a buttery keystroke experience. This implies a smooth and fluid sensation while typing, providing seamless and effortless keystrokes. However, the Luciola is also described as snappy and polished, offering a more responsive and refined typing experience. The NovelKeys Cream, on the other hand, has a textured option, providing noticeable friction when pressed. This can be preferred by users who enjoy a textured feel while typing.

Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Luciola and Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switches will depend on your individual preferences. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a variety of sound profiles, the Luciola may be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a low-pitched, resonant sound profile with the option for a textured feel, the NovelKeys Cream may be more suited to your preferences. Consider what you value most in a switch and make your decision based on that.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Luciola Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

Kailh NovelKeys Cream Linear

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more