Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Dustproof Brown stand out as compelling options for different reasons. On one hand, the Cream switch is a linear switch that offers a heavy typing experience with a deep sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a bit of heft and texture in their typing. In contrast, the Dustproof Brown switch is a tactile switch that doesn't have a specific standout feature but provides a more traditional typing experience. While the Cream switch is described as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Resonant', and 'Invigorating', the Dustproof Brown switch has no specific descriptors. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Dustproof Brown, it is clear that they offer distinct sound profiles due to their different materials. The POM top housing of the NovelKeys Cream provides a deeper and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Brown creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Cream contributes to a pleasing sound profile with a softer and deeper tone, whereas the nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Brown produces a fuller sound with a duller and rounder tone.
While the NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Dustproof Brown offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, they both excel in providing a pleasing typing experience. The POM housing of the Cream creates a distinct deeper sound, while the polycarbonate housing of the Dustproof Brown offers a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches showcase the importance of the top housing material in impacting the sound when pressing down on a key, as well as the bottom housing material in influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Despite their differences, the housing materials in both switches contribute to a satisfying typing experience that is tailored to individual preferences.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Dustproof Brown will come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. The unique qualities of the POM and polycarbonate housing materials in the Cream and Dustproof Brown respectively offer distinctive typing experiences that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a deeper, muted sound profile or a sharper, crisper sound, both switches provide high-quality housing materials that contribute to an overall satisfying typing experience. Regardless of the slight differences in sound profile, both switches offer a premium typing feel that showcases the importance of housing materials in customizing the typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the NovelKeys Cream has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Dustproof Brown's 45 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Cream at 70 grams and the Dustproof Brown at 65 grams. This means that while the NovelKeys Cream may require a bit more force to initially trigger a keystroke, the overall typing experience may feel similar between the two switches due to their comparable bottom out forces. Some users may prefer the heavier actuation force of the Cream for a more substantial typing experience, while others may opt for the lighter actuation force of the Dustproof Brown for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the distance each switch travels from the top to the bottom is identical, resulting in a similar typing experience for both switches in terms of key travel. Users can expect consistent tactile feedback and actuation force from both switches during use. Overall, both switches offer a smooth and responsive typing experience with a travel distance that is neither too short nor too long.
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 Dustproof Brown 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 typing experience, providing a deep and immersive auditory profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch's sound characteristics are unknown, making it difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Regarding feel, the NovelKeys Cream switch is described as buttery, textured, and invigorating, offering a smooth, yet tactile typing experience with a pronounced feedback. The Outemu Dustproof Brown switch's feel qualities are also unknown, making it challenging to compare directly in this aspect. However, if the NovelKeys Cream switch provides a buttery and invigorating typing feel, it is likely that the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch may offer similar characteristics for a satisfying typing experience.
Taking all available information into consideration, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch stands out for its deep and resonant sound profile, along with its buttery, textured, and invigorating typing feel. While the qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch in terms of sound and feel are unknown, based on the descriptions of the NovelKeys Cream switch, it is expected that both switches would provide unique and enjoyable typing experiences for users seeking different characteristics in their mechanical keyboard switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a deep sound profile and buttery feel, the NovelKeys Cream may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force and no particular sound or feel characteristics mentioned, the Dustproof Brown may be the right fit. Consider factors like typing style, noise tolerance, and desired feedback when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique qualities, so it's important to choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences.
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