Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. Outemu Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Milk Tea offer distinctly different typing experiences. The NovelKeys Cream is a linear switch that provides a heftier typing experience with a deep sound profile, making it stand out among other linear switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Tea is a tactile switch that offers a more subtle typing experience with no specific standout features. The NovelKeys Cream is best suited for those who prefer a buttery, low-pitched, textured, and resonant typing experience, while the Outemu Milk Tea is a more versatile option with a neutral categorization. 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
N/A
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
Ly
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
The housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and Outemu Milk Tea switches offer contrasting sound profiles due to the differences in materials used. The Cream's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Milk Tea's Ly top housing produces a brighter and resonant sound signature. This contrast in sound profiles can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users, as the switch housing material plays a crucial role in the acoustics of a keyboard.
Additionally, the POM bottom housing of the NovelKeys Cream and the nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Milk Tea further differentiate the two switches in terms of sound and feel. The POM bottom housing of the Cream contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Milk Tea results in a fuller and rounder sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and more substantial typing experience compared to the Cream's POM bottom housing.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and Outemu Milk Tea switches, users can expect similar results in terms of overall typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles due to the top and bottom housing materials used, with the Cream providing a deeper and more muted sound compared to the Milk Tea's brighter and resonant sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel during typing, as the housing materials play a significant role in shaping the overall user experience.
Weight
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch with 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the NovelKeys Cream requires 70 grams, whereas the Milk Tea force is unknown. In terms of weight, the NovelKeys Cream would be considered heavier due to its higher bottom out force. The actuation force and bottom out force of the switches play a significant role in the typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may favor the Milk Tea switch, while individuals looking for a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the NovelKeys Cream. The actuation force and bottom out force will ultimately determine the typing experience and comfort level for users.
Travel distance
Both the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on either key, users will experience a consistent distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that users will get a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance regardless of which switch they choose. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable and reliable typing experience with a consistent travel distance, making them suitable choices for those looking for a smooth and consistent keystroke.
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 Milk Tea 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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offers a low-pitched and resonant typing experience, providing a deep and immersive auditory sensation. In comparison, the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch does not have specific sound descriptors available, which may indicate a more neutral or standard sound profile. Both switches can provide satisfying sound experiences, but the Cream switches may offer a more distinctive and bass-heavy tone.
As for feel, the NovelKeys Cream switches are praised for their buttery and invigorating typing sensation, offering a smooth and effortless keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and reactive feel. On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switches is not explicitly described, suggesting a more standard tactile feedback without specific characteristics highlighted. While both switches can deliver a satisfying typing feel, the Cream switches may have a more distinct and rich tactile experience.
Overall, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch each have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream switches provide a deep and resonant sound with a buttery and invigorating feel, while the Milk Tea switches may offer a more neutral experience without specific descriptors available. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing feel, as both can offer a high-quality mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, you should consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a medium-heavy linear switch with a deep and resonant sound profile, the Creams may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a unique feel and sound profile, the Milk Tea switches may be more appealing. Ultimately, the decision will come down to personal preference and the typing experience you are seeking. Experimenting with different switches can help you find the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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