PH Studio Milk Tea vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Milk Tea and Kailh NovelKeys Cream are two linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Milk Tea switch, with its high-pitched yet muted sound, is designed for prolonged typing sessions with its light 43.5g bottom-out force and Ly stem material for effortless keystrokes. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream switch provides a heftier typing experience with a deeper sound profile, making it stand out from other linear switches. While the Milk Tea switch is 'clacky', 'high-pitched', and 'silky', the Cream switch is 'buttery', 'low-pitched', and 'textured'. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
37.5g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches are both made of POM, which results in an incredibly pleasing and unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted compared to other materials. This shared characteristic means that users can expect a similar auditory experience when typing on keyboards equipped with either of these switches. However, the differences in the top and bottom housings of the switches will influence the overall feel and sound of typing on each switch.
In terms of the top housing, both the Milk Tea and Cream switches feature a POM housing that contributes significantly to the sound profile when releasing a key. The unique characteristics of POM material result in a sound that is distinctively deep and muted, providing a satisfying auditory experience for typists. This shared feature makes the switches ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience without sacrificing the tactile feedback that mechanical keyboards are known for.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of the switches plays a crucial role in determining the impact and feel of bottoming out a key. The qualities of the POM bottom housing are felt when typing on the switches, influencing the overall tactile feedback and sound profile of the switches. While both the Milk Tea and Cream switches share the same material for their bottom housings, subtle differences in design and construction may result in variations in typing feel and sound. Users looking to customize their typing experience may find that the nuances of the bottom housing material can make a difference in their overall satisfaction with the switch.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, it's clear that the Milk Tea is the lighter option with an actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream is the heavier option with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. The Milk Tea provides a light and smooth typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the NovelKeys Cream offers a medium-heavy feel, ideal for users who enjoy a more substantial push for a satisfying typing experience. Both switches differ significantly in their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation force and bottom out force for an optimal typing experience.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Milk Tea switch the shorter option and the Cream switch the longer option. The 0.4 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can make a noticeable impact on the typing or gaming experience. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Milk Tea switch, while those who prefer a more traditional and deeper feel may opt for the Cream switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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 PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offers a high-pitched and somewhat muted auditory experience, giving a gentle balance between presence and subtlety. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch presents a deeper sound profile, providing a heftier typing experience. While the Milk Tea is described as clacky, high-pitched, marbly, and resonant, the Cream switch is noted for being low-pitched and resonant. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Milk Tea switch is known for its polished and silky typing experience, offering smooth and refined key presses with reduced friction. Conversely, the NovelKeys Cream switch is described as buttery, providing a seamless and effortless keystroke experience. Additionally, the Cream switch is noted for its textured feel, offering noticeable friction, and an invigorating tactile feedback. Both switches aim to enhance the overall typing sensation, catering to different preferences for typing feel.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Milk Tea and Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switches offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Milk Tea switch provides a high-pitched and polished typing experience, the Cream switch offers a deeper sound profile and a buttery feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches cater to different typing experiences, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their needs. Ultimately, whether choosing the Milk Tea or Cream, users can expect a tailored typing experience based on their preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, consider your typing preferences. If you value a lighter bottom-out force, a high-pitched and clacky sound profile, and a polished and silky typing experience, then the Milk Tea switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force, a deeper sound profile, and a buttery or invigorating typing feel, then the NovelKeys Cream switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to understand what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision.
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