Cherry Nixie vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Cherry Nixie and Kailh NovelKeys Cream are both linear switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Cherry Nixie is known for its substantial heft and textured typing feel, thanks to the updated materials and springs from Cherry's MX2A update. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream provides a heftier linear typing experience with a deep sound profile. While the Nixie is categorized as 'Textured', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched', the Cream is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Resonant', and 'Invigorating'. Each switch has its own appeal, offering a blend of tradition and modern innovation for different preferences. 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
63.5g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Nylon
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Cherry Nixie and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Nixie uses nylon for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. In comparison, the NovelKeys Cream utilizes POM for both top and bottom housings, offering a different sound experience. The POM material creates a pleasing and unique sound that is deeper and more muted than the Nixie.
However, when comparing the top and bottom housings separately, differences can be noted between the two switches. The Cherry Nixie's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile when pressing down on the switch, while the Kailh NovelKeys Cream's POM top housing offers a more muted sound when releasing a key. On the other hand, the bottom housing of both switches plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. The softer nature of nylon in the Nixie and the unique sound profile of POM in the Cream contribute to a distinct typing experience for each switch.
Overall, while the Cherry Nixie and Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches may have different housing materials, they both offer a premium typing experience with unique sound profiles. Whether it be the deeper and fuller sound of the Nixie's nylon housing or the more muted and pleasing sound of the Cream's POM housing, typists can expect a high-quality sound and feel from either switch. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
The Cherry Nixie linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, making it a more robust option for those who prefer a substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a slightly gentler option for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces. Those who prefer lighter switches may opt for the NovelKeys Cream, while those who prefer heavier switches may lean towards the Cherry Nixie. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing feel and experience.
Travel distance
The Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch both have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a similar keypress depth. Both switches provide a consistent and satisfying typing experience with their equal travel distances. While other factors may differentiate the two switches, such as actuation force or sound profile, in terms of travel distance, the Cherry Nixie and Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches offer identical results.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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 Cherry Nixie linear switch is best characterized as thocky and low-pitched, giving off a deep and rich sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch presents a low-pitched and resonant sound profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone with a clean and sharp auditory experience. When typing on the Nixie, users can expect a satisfying thud-like sound, while the Cream switch delivers a more immersive and higher-pitched typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry Nixie switch is known for its textured typing experience, providing noticeable friction when pressed. In contrast, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch is described as buttery and textured, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke alongside a noticeable friction when pressed. Additionally, the Cream switch is noted for its invigorating sensation, providing pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel during typing.
Considering the subjective qualities of the Cherry Nixie and Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switches, both offer unique experiences for users looking for a linear switch option. While the Nixie presents a texturally satisfying typing experience with a thocky and low-pitched sound, the Cream switch provides a smooth and buttery typing sensation accompanied by a low-pitched and resonant sound profile. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and the overall typing experience desired.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, consider the factors that are most important to you. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a textured typing experience with a deep, thocky sound profile, the Cherry Nixie may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force, a buttery smooth keystroke with a low-pitched and resonant sound profile, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream might be more suited to your preferences. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable to you while typing.
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