Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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 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
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 Ocean 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 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.
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