Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh NovelKeys Cream, a linear switch, and the Outemu Green, a clicky switch. The NovelKeys Cream is renowned for its heftier linear typing experience, offering a deep sound profile that adds a textured and invigorating feel to typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Green is known for its clicky nature, providing a satisfying audible click with every key press. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Cream switch is ideal for those who enjoy a smooth and quiet typing experience, while the Green switch is perfect for individuals who prefer a more tactile and audible typing feedback. 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
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Green switches, one can see a stark difference in sound profiles. The NovelKeys Cream utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Green features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound for typing. The use of polycarbonate in the Green switch provides a crisper sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a fuller sound experience.
Aesthetically, the use of different housing materials also plays a role in the overall look of the switches. The NovelKeys Cream's POM housing does not offer the translucent appearance that polycarbonate provides in the Outemu Green switch. This makes the Green switch more visually appealing, especially when paired with RGB lighting. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Outemu Green enhances the overall typing experience by delivering a clear and resonant sound profile.
While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the choice between the NovelKeys Cream and Outemu Green ultimately comes down to personal preference. The POM housing of the Cream switch provides a deeper and more muted sound, while the Green switch with its polycarbonate and nylon housing combination delivers a sharper and crisper typing experience. However, if a user prefers a switch with similar qualities, they can achieve similar results by using switches with matching housing materials for a consistent sound profile throughout their keyboard.
Weight
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Outemu Green clicky switch with a higher actuation force of 65 grams. Both switches have a medium to heavy bottom out force, with the Cream requiring 70 grams and the Green needing 80 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cream switch would be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions without as much fatigue. On the other hand, the Green switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, making it ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on either key, users will experience a similar amount of travel before actuation. The consistency in travel distance between these two switches allows for a comparable typing experience in terms of key press depth. So, whether you opt for the NovelKeys Cream or the Outemu Green, you can expect a similar level of travel distance when typing.
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 Green 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 NovelKeys Cream linear switch offers a low-pitched and resonant typing experience, providing a deep and immersive auditory sensation. On the other hand, the Outemu Green clicky switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided, so it is difficult to compare the sound profiles directly. The sound produced by both switches will also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so individual preferences may vary.
Moving on to feel, the NovelKeys Cream switch is described as offering a buttery, textured, and invigorating typing experience. This implies that the keystrokes are smooth, have noticeable friction if desired, and provide a satisfying feedback with moderate to firm actuation force. In comparison, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the Outemu Green clicky switch, making it challenging to directly compare the tactile sensations between the two.
Taking into consideration the subjective qualities of sound and feel, it is evident that the NovelKeys Cream linear switch offers a unique combination of a deep, low-pitched sound profile with a smooth, textured, and invigorating typing feel. On the contrary, the Outemu Green clicky switch lacks specific descriptors for both sound and feel, making it difficult to provide a direct comparison. However, based on the information provided, it can be inferred that the NovelKeys Cream switch may offer a more distinct and immersive typing experience overall.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prefer a medium-heavy linear typing experience with a deeper sound profile, the NovelKeys Cream may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier clicky switch with a satisfying click sound, the Outemu Green could be the right fit. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of typing feel, sound, and bottom out force. Choose wisely based on what you prioritize most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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