Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch to the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, it's clear that they each offer unique qualities. The NovelKeys Cream stands out for its heftier linear typing experience and deep sound profile, categorized as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Resonant', and 'Invigorating'. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean lacks specific standout features but provides a quieter typing experience. If you prefer a more tactile and resonant typing sensation, the NovelKeys Cream may be the way to go. 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
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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Silent Ocean both have unique qualities that contribute to the sound profile of the switch. The NovelKeys Cream features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound. In contrast, the Silent Ocean utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. While both materials have their own distinct sound profiles, they cater to different preferences in terms of acoustics.
In terms of the bottom housing, the NovelKeys Cream utilizes POM, which also creates a pleasing sound profile that is on the deeper side. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean features a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to POM, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall sound experience when typing on these switches.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Silent Ocean offer different sound profiles, they each contribute uniquely to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing plays a larger role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between POM and polycarbonate, as well as between POM and nylon, will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel when using these switches.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and Outemu Silent Ocean linear switches differ slightly. The NovelKeys Cream is slightly heavier, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Silent Ocean is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. Both switches fall within the medium-heavy range in terms of force required. The NovelKeys Cream provides a slightly stronger push feel compared to the Silent Ocean. When it comes to weight preference, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Silent Ocean, as it requires less force to actuate, making it ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the NovelKeys Cream with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
Both the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on either of these switches, users can expect a consistent and familiar feel in terms of key travel. The identical travel distance ensures that typing on either switch will result in similar key press experiences in terms of how far the keys travel when pressed. Therefore, whether you choose the NovelKeys Cream or the Outemu Silent Ocean switch, you can expect to get similar results in terms of key travel distance.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch is known for its low-pitched and resonant qualities, providing a deep and immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch does not have any specific sound descriptors available. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the NovelKeys Cream is often described as buttery, textured, and invigorating, offering a smooth and fluid typing sensation with noticeable feedback and actuation force. In contrast, there is no available information on the feel characteristics of the Outemu Silent Ocean switch.
Considering all the available information, it is clear that the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offers a unique combination of low-pitched sound and tactile feel, creating a distinctive typing experience. While the qualities of the Outemu Silent Ocean switch are unknown, it is possible that it may provide similar results in sound and feel. Ultimately, when choosing between these two switches, it is important to consider your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a slightly heavier typing experience, the Cream switch with a bottom out force of 70 grams may be the better choice for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a deeper sound profile with low-pitched and resonant characteristics, the Cream switch may be more appealing. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force of 65 grams, you may find the Silent Ocean switch more comfortable for extended typing sessions. Keep in mind that the Silent Ocean switch lacks specific sound and feel descriptors, so if you prefer a more predictable typing experience, the Cream switch with its buttery, textured, and invigorating feel may be the way to go. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and what typing experience aligns best with your preferences.
Mentioned in this article
