Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Silent Grey mechanical keyboard switches, we see they offer distinctive typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Cream switches provide a hefty linear typing experience with a deeper sound profile, categorized as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Resonant', and 'Invigorating'. On the other hand, the Silent Grey switches offer a quiet and highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke. While the Cream switches may appeal to those who enjoy a more robust typing feel, the Silent Grey switches are ideal for individuals seeking a satisfying and silent typing experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
The housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Silent Grey switches offer distinct differences in sound profiles and material characteristics. The NovelKeys Cream features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, whereas the Silent Grey's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the clear polycarbonate housing of the Silent Grey switch allows for RGB lighting, making it a visually appealing choice for those looking to customize their setup.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, the NovelKeys Cream utilizes a POM material that also contributes to a pleasing and unique sound profile with a deep tone. In contrast, the Silent Grey's nylon bottom housing generates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound. This variation in housing material between the two switches highlights the impact that different plastics can have on the overall typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Silent Grey switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel. While both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, the NovelKeys Cream's POM housing leans towards a deeper and more muted sound, while the Silent Grey's polycarbonate and nylon housings produce sharper and fuller tones, respectively. Whether you prioritize a specific sound profile, the aesthetics of clear housing for RGB lighting, or the feel of typing on softer or stiffer plastics, both switches have distinct characteristics to consider when customizing your keyboard setup.
Weight
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch both fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The NovelKeys Cream has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, slightly heavier than the Silent Grey which has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The NovelKeys Cream provides a slightly stronger push feel compared to the Silent Grey, making it ideal for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Grey offers a lighter touch, making it suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions where fatigue might be a concern. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, but the slight differences in weight may cater to different preferences among users.
Travel distance
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, despite having the same travel distance, their key feel and actuation point might differ due to their switch type (linear vs tactile). The NovelKeys Cream provides a smooth and consistent keystroke due to its linear design, while the Silent Grey offers a tactile bump for feedback during typing. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their 4 mm travel distance, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of key travel and actuation depth.
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 Silent Grey 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, creating a deep and immersive auditory sensation. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch is known for providing a quiet typing experience without specific descriptors given, likely indicating a more subtle sound profile. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your preference for the depth and pitch of the typing sound you desire.
In terms of feel, the NovelKeys Cream linear switch is praised for its buttery and invigorating typing experience, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke with pronounced feedback and excellent actuation force. Meanwhile, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch does not have specific descriptors provided, but is designed to offer a silent yet tactile typing sensation. If you prefer a linear switch with a smooth and invigorating feel, the NovelKeys Cream may be the ideal choice for you.
Overall, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you are looking for a deeper and more resonant typing experience with a buttery and invigorating feel, the NovelKeys Cream may be the preferred option. Alternatively, if you prioritize a quiet and tactile typing experience, the Outemu Silent Grey could be more suitable for your preferences. Both switches cater to different typing styles, so choose based on the specific characteristics that best suit your needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a heavier bottom out force and a deep sound profile, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force and a silent yet satisfying typing experience, the Outemu Silent Grey switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a heavier linear switch with a deep sound or a tactile switch with a silent typing experience. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
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