Gateron Mini i vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mini i and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream offer unique typing experiences for users to choose from. The Gateron Mini i is a tactile switch that provides a gentle tactility in each keystroke, making it ideal for office environments where a quiet and professional typing experience is desired. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream is a linear switch that offers a heftier typing experience with a deep sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a more definitive keystroke feel. While the Gateron Mini i is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, and subtle, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream is characterized as buttery, low-pitched, and invigorating. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, but diving deeper into their specific characteristics will help you decide on the best switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Mini i and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream both feature unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Mini i's nylon top and bottom housings produce a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to nylon's softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Cream's POM top and bottom housings create a more muted and pleasing sound that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. While both switches offer a unique sound experience, the Mini i emphasizes a rounder sound profile, while the Cream delivers a more muted and deep sound.
Despite their differences, the Mini i and NovelKeys Cream share similarities in their housing materials. Both switches utilize nylon and POM materials, respectively, which are known for their sound-absorbing properties. As a result, users can expect a slightly muted sound profile compared to switches with harder plastic housing materials. The deeper sound profiles of both switches suggest a more immersive typing experience, allowing users to enjoy a fuller and richer sound with each keystroke.
When it comes to sound characteristics, the Gateron Mini i and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream showcase how the housing materials impact the overall typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housing allows for a unique combination of qualities in each switch. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key, the top housing plays a major role in the sound emitted when releasing a key. Ultimately, users can choose between the Mini i and Cream based on their preference for a rounder and fuller sound profile or a more muted and deeper sound experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, it becomes evident that the Mini i is a lighter option with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. In contrast, the NovelKeys Cream offers a heavier typing experience with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. The Mini i provides a gentler typing experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream offers a more substantial typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a stronger push feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the NovelKeys Cream has the longer travel distance compared to the Mini i. The NovelKeys Cream switch would provide a slightly deeper keystroke feel compared to the Mini i. If you prefer a switch with a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Mini i would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a more substantial keystroke feel, the NovelKeys Cream would be the way to go. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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 Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that strikes a balance between being audible and discreet, suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various settings. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch provides a low-pitched and resonant sound that offers a deep and immersive auditory experience. Depending on personal preference and the keyboard setup, the Mini i will provide a more neutral and moderate sound, while the Cream switch will offer a richer and more bass-heavy typing experience.
As for the feel, the Mini i tactile switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped, providing a comfortable and responsive typing experience with a gentle resistance and subtle tactility. Conversely, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch is described as buttery, textured, and invigorating, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and moderate to firm actuation force. Depending on the typing style and preference for tactility, the Mini i will provide a bouncy and light typing feel, while the Cream switch will offer a more pronounced and invigorating keystroke.
In conclusion, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Mini i provides a neutral sound profile and a bouncy and easy-to-press typing experience, the Cream switch offers a low-pitched and resonant sound with a buttery and invigorating feel. Depending on individual preferences and the desired typing experience, both switches can deliver satisfying results in their own unique ways. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether one prefers a more subtle and balanced typing experience or a richer and more pronounced tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, consider the environment and typing experience you prefer. If you are looking for a lightweight, quiet switch with gentle tactility for long hours of comfortable typing in an office setting, the Gateron Mini i is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy linear switch with a deep sound profile for a more immersive and invigorating typing experience, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream would be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and needs in terms of typing feel, sound profile, and actuation force.
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