Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. Outemu Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and Outemu Cream Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, the decision ultimately comes down to your personal typing preferences. 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 Cream Yellow offers a tactile typing experience, although not much is known in terms of specific qualities. If you prefer a buttery, low-pitched typing experience, the NovelKeys Cream may be the better choice for you. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Cream Yellow, we can see that they both offer unique sound profiles due to their different materials. The NovelKeys Cream's POM top housing provides a deeper and more muted sound, while the Cream Yellow's nylon top housing offers a fuller and rounder sound. Similarly, the NovelKeys Cream's POM bottom housing contributes to a deep and pleasing sound, while the Cream Yellow's nylon bottom housing helps create a deeper and fuller sound profile. Overall, both switches utilize different housing materials to achieve distinct sound characteristics.
While both the NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Cream Yellow use different housing materials for their top and bottom components, they ultimately provide similar results in terms of sound. The POM top and bottom housing of the NovelKeys Cream work together to create a unique and pleasing sound profile, while the nylon top and bottom housing of the Cream Yellow offers a deep and full sound experience. Despite the difference in materials, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their respective housing components. Therefore, users can expect similar sound profiles from both switches, despite the variations in housing materials.
In terms of functionality, the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing, whether it be POM or nylon, have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed. On the other hand, the qualities of the top housing, whether it be POM or nylon, will influence the sound produced when releasing a key. As a result, the choice of housing material for both the top and bottom components can greatly affect the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of a switch, making it an important consideration for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, it is clear that the Cream Yellow is lighter in both aspects. The Cream Yellow has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the 55 grams required for the NovelKeys Cream, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. Similarly, the Cream Yellow also has a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams, while the NovelKeys Cream requires 70 grams to fully press down. These differences mean that the Cream Yellow switch provides a lighter and smoother typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a more effortless keystroke. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream offers a slightly heavier and more tactile typing experience, which may be preferable for those who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for typing resistance and keystroke feel.
Travel distance
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Cream Yellow with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more tactile and deeper key press may lean towards the NovelKeys Cream with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer unique experiences and it ultimately comes down to personal preference on which travel distance feels more comfortable and responsive to the individual user.
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 Cream Yellow 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
Overall, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switches are known for their deep and resonant sound profile, providing a unique typing experience compared to other switches on the market. They offer a buttery and invigorating feel, creating a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation with good feedback and actuation force. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switches do not have any specific sound or feel descriptions available, making it difficult to directly compare them to the NovelKeys Cream. However, based on the available information, it can be inferred that the Cream Yellow switches may offer a different sound and feel experience compared to the Cream switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are someone who enjoys a heavier typing experience with a deeper sound profile, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch may be the right choice for you. These switches offer a buttery and textured feel, providing a smooth and uniform typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and are looking for a tactile typing experience, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch could be more suitable for you. While the Cream Yellow switches lack specific sound and feel descriptors in this comparison, they are known for their tactile feedback and medium bottom out force. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences in terms of typing experience and sound profile. Consider trying out both switches if possible to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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