Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. Outemu Ocean

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Ocean stand out as popular options with their unique characteristics. The Cream is a linear switch, offering a heftier typing experience with a deep sound profile that is both textured and invigorating. In contrast, the Ocean is a tactile switch, providing a different typing feel with no specific standout features mentioned. Depending on your preference for a buttery, low-pitched linear switch or a tactile switch with no specific descriptors, you may lean towards one over the other. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh NovelKeys Cream Linear

Outemu Ocean Tactile

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Ocean, it is clear that they both offer unique sound profiles based on the materials used. The Cream's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Ocean's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. While both materials contribute to a pleasing typing experience, the choice between the two will ultimately depend on individual preferences for sound and feel.

When it comes to the bottom housing, the Cream utilizes POM material, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Ocean features a nylon bottom housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. These differences in material properties can significantly impact the overall typing experience, as the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.

Overall, the choice between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Ocean will come down to personal preferences for sound and feel. The use of POM in the Cream's housing creates a unique sound profile that is deep and muted, while the Ocean's polycarbonate and nylon materials offer a sharper and fuller sound. Whether you prefer a softer, more absorbing material like nylon or a stiffer, more resonant material like polycarbonate, both switches provide a unique typing experience that can enhance any keyboard setup.

Weight

When comparing the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch to the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, it is evident that they both share the same actuation force of 55 grams. However, the NovelKeys Cream has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the bottom out force of the Outemu Ocean switch is unknown. The difference in bottom out force means that the NovelKeys Cream may provide a more substantial typing experience compared to the Outemu Ocean switch. Some users may prefer the heavier bottom out force for a more satisfying typing feel, while others may lean towards the lighter option for longer typing or gaming sessions. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience for users of mechanical keyboards.

Travel distance

The Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on either key, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent feel and actuation point, making them ideal choices for typing or gaming. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches, so you can expect similar results when using either one.

Price comparison

Typing experience

Overall, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offers a deep and resonant sound profile with a low-pitched tone compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch's sound profile remains unknown. In terms of feel, the NovelKeys Cream provides a buttery and invigorating typing experience with a textured sensation, giving users a smooth and uniform keystroke. The feel of the Outemu Ocean switch remains unknown. Based on the available information, it is clear that the NovelKeys Cream switch is more clearly defined in terms of sound and feel compared to the Outemu Ocean switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as well as other factors such as keyboard and keycap selection.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a deep, low-pitched sound profile, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream is the way to go. These Cream switches provide a heftier typing experience with a buttery and textured feel that some users find invigorating. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with no specified bottom out force and a resonant sound profile, the Outemu Ocean might be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for typing experience and sound profile. Consider what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your choice.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh NovelKeys Cream Linear

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Ocean Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more