Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Black both offer a linear typing experience, but with some distinct differences. The NovelKeys Cream is renowned for its heftier linear typing experience, providing a deep sound profile that is both textured and invigorating. On the other hand, the Outemu Black is a more understated choice, lacking specific characteristics but still offering a smooth linear feel. If you prefer a switch with a pronounced typing experience, the NovelKeys Cream may be the way to go. 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
55g
Actuation force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Black switches both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Cream's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, whereas the Black's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Cream's POM bottom housing maintains a deep and pleasing sound, while the Black's nylon bottom housing produces a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer plastic composition.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Black switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings of each switch allow for a well-rounded sound when pressing down on the keys and when releasing them. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel is balanced by the top housing's influence on the sound when releasing a key. This combination creates a harmonious typing experience that caters to both the tactile and auditory senses.
Overall, the choice between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Black switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. The Cream's POM housing offers a more muted and pleasing sound, while the Black's polycarbonate and nylon housing materials provide sharper and fuller sound profiles, respectively. Whether you prefer a deeper or a crisper sound, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and desired sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, it is clear that the NovelKeys Cream is lighter in both aspects compared to the Outemu Black. The NovelKeys Cream has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Outemu Black has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams. This means that the NovelKeys Cream will require less pressure to trigger a keystroke and to bottom out, making it a good choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Black's heavier actuation and bottom out forces will provide a more substantial and tactile typing experience, which may be preferred by those who like a stronger push feel. Overall, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches offer a similar tactile experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, users can expect a consistent feel from both switches, as the length of travel is identical in both. This makes them equally suitable for typing or gaming experiences where a consistent feel is desired.
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 Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 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
In terms of sound, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offers a low-pitched and resonant sound profile, providing a deep and immersive auditory experience during typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Black linear switch's sound characteristics are unknown. Both switches may offer a similar sound profile depending on factors like the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the typing feel, the NovelKeys Cream switch is known for its buttery and invigorating tactile qualities, providing a smooth and fluid typing experience with pronounced feedback and reactive feel. In contrast, the Outemu Black switch's tactile attributes are unspecified. Despite this, users may find that both switches offer a comparable typing feel with differences potentially stemming from personal preference and typing style.
In conclusion, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch stands out for its deep and resonant sound profile alongside a buttery and invigorating typing feel. While the specific sound and feel characteristics of the Outemu Black linear switch are not defined, individuals can achieve a similar typing experience based on their unique setup and preferences. As a newcomer exploring mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to consider not only the technical specifications but also personal comfort and satisfaction when making a selection.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy linear switch with a deep sound profile and a buttery, invigorating feel, then the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier switch with no specific sound or feel characteristics mentioned, the Outemu Black switch could be the right fit for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing experience and the particular features that matter most to you.
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