Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. Outemu Tom

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are countless options to choose from, each offering a unique typing experience. Two popular switches to consider are the Kailh NovelKeys Cream, a linear switch, and the Outemu Tom, a tactile switch. The NovelKeys Cream is praised for its heftier linear typing experience and distinct sound profile, categorized as ['Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating']. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom doesn't have a specific standout feature but is categorized as []. If you prefer a smoother, more consistent typing feel, the Cream switch may be the way to go. In contrast, if you enjoy the tactile feedback and distinct bump of a tactile switch, the Tom may better suit your preferences. 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 Tom 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 Tom, a key difference lies in the materials used for the top housing. The Cream features a POM top housing which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Tom utilizes a polycarbonate top housing which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate in the Tom's top housing also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic element to the switch that the Cream may not provide.

Moving on to the bottom housing, another point of contrast emerges. The NovelKeys Cream boasts a POM bottom housing that, like its top housing, creates a deep and muted sound. In contrast, the Outemu Tom utilizes a nylon bottom housing which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of the Tom absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Cream.

While the top and bottom housing materials of the NovelKeys Cream and Outemu Tom differ, it is important to note how these materials impact the overall typing experience. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, so the nylon bottom housing of the Tom will provide a deeper and fuller typing experience compared to the POM bottom housing of the Cream. On the other hand, the top housing will influence the sound when a key is released, with the polycarbonate top housing of the Tom offering a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the deeper and more muted sound produced by the POM top housing of the Cream.

Weight

Comparing the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, we can see that they have the same actuation force of 55 grams. However, the NovelKeys Cream has a bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Tom's bottom out force is unknown. The Cream switch is considered medium-heavy in terms of weight, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Tom switch's weight is unavailable, making it difficult to determine its heaviness. When considering weight, some may prefer a lighter switch like the NovelKeys Cream for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may opt for a switch with a heavier force for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.

Travel distance

The Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Cream switch has a slightly longer travel distance than the Tom switch, making it better suited for those who prefer a deeper key press. On the other hand, the Tom switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches provide a different tactile experience due to their varying travel distances, with the Cream switch offering a more profound key press compared to the Tom switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing experience desired.

Price comparison

Typing experience

Overall, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch excels in providing a low-pitched and resonant sound profile, offering a deeper and more immersive auditory experience compared to other switches. In terms of feel, the Cream switch is often described as buttery, providing a smooth and uniform typing sensation with a textured feedback that some users find invigorating. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom tactile switch lacks specific descriptors for sound and feel, making it difficult to directly compare to the NovelKeys Cream switch. However, given the known qualities of the Cream switch, one may expect a similar level of satisfaction with the Tom switch, particularly in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience desired by the user.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when deciding between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a medium-heavy linear switch with a deep sound profile and smooth keystrokes, the NovelKeys Cream may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a different feel and sound, the Tom switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for. Consider trying out different switches to find the one that best suits your needs.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh NovelKeys Cream Linear

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

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Outemu Tom Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more