Cherry MX Red vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream

Overview

When comparing the Cherry MX Red and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches known for their slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profiles. The MX Red from Cherry offers a robust typing experience with a satisfying auditory depth, while the NovelKeys Cream provides one of the heftier linear typing experiences available. The MX Red is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', whereas the NovelKeys Cream is known for being 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Resonant', and 'Invigorating'. Both switches offer a unique typing experience with their own set of characteristics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Cherry MX Red Linear

Kailh NovelKeys Cream Linear

$5.90

$4.00 per 10

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

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Housing materials

The Cherry MX Red and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches both feature different housing materials in their construction, with the MX Red using a nylon top and bottom housing while the NovelKeys Cream utilizes a POM top and bottom housing. Both nylon and POM are known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, with nylon being described as having a duller and rounder sound due to its softer plastic properties, while POM is said to have a more muted sound profile. In terms of sound, both switches offer pleasing and unique auditory experiences, with the MX Red being slightly more resonant and the NovelKeys Cream having a deeper tone.

In terms of feel and tactile feedback, the housing material of the bottom housing plays a significant role. The Cherry MX Red's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a fuller sound profile during bottom-out. Similarly, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream's POM bottom housing contributes to a more muted sound profile during bottom-out, creating a deeper and more satisfying typing experience. The differences in bottom housing material between the two switches may result in varied typing experiences, with the MX Red offering a slightly softer feel during key presses compared to the NovelKeys Cream.

While the top and bottom housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches differ, both switches provide similar overall typing experiences with unique sound profiles. The impact of the housing material is split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, whether you prefer the slightly more resonant sound of the MX Red's nylon housing or the deeper, more muted sound of the NovelKeys Cream's POM housing, both switches offer high-quality construction and satisfying typing experiences.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, it is evident that the MX Red is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the NovelKeys Cream's 55 grams. The bottom out force of the NovelKeys Cream is also heavier at 70 grams, while the bottom out force of the MX Red is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Cherry MX Red, as it requires less force to actuate keystrokes, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the NovelKeys Cream provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

Both the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equally responsive in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. When pressing down on a key with either switch, users can expect to feel the same tactile feedback and distance traveled. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will experience consistent keypresses whether they are typing or gaming. Overall, both switches offer a smooth and precise typing experience with a 4 mm travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Red switch is often described as having a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deep and satisfying auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch produces a low-pitched and resonant sound, providing a bass-heavy and immersive sound profile that enhances the typing experience. Both switches offer a deeper sound profile compared to others, which can contribute to a more enjoyable typing experience, especially when combined with a high-quality keyboard and keycaps.

Turning to the feel of these switches, the Cherry MX Red is often noted for its textured feel, which can add a level of friction when pressing the keys. Meanwhile, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch is described as buttery and invigorating, offering a smooth, uniform keystroke experience with a pronounced feedback and reactive feel. Both switches provide a unique tactile sensation, with the MX Red offering a slightly more textured feel compared to the smoother and invigorating feel of the NovelKeys Cream. Depending on personal preferences, users may find one switch more appealing based on their typing style and desired level of feedback.

In conclusion, both the Cherry MX Red and Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the MX Red provides a heftier and slightly textured typing experience with a deep sound profile, the NovelKeys Cream switch offers a smooth and invigorating feel paired with a low-pitched and resonant sound. Ultimately, both switches deliver a high-quality typing experience, and choosing between them will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing satisfaction. For those looking for a similar experience in terms of sound and feel, opting for either switch should result in comparable results with slight differences in texture and feedback.

Conclusion

In closing, when choosing between the Cherry MX Red and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a switch with a slightly heftier feel and a deeper sound profile, the Cherry MX Red may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a more pronounced feedback with a smooth and uniform typing sensation, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream may be more suitable. Consider how you like your keys to sound and feel while typing, and make your decision based on that. Ultimately, both switches offer a quality typing experience, so you can't go wrong with either choice.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Red Linear

$5.90

$4.00 per 10

Learn more

Kailh NovelKeys Cream Linear

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more