Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the KTT Pine. The NovelKeys Cream is widely recognized for its heftier linear typing experience, offering a satisfying deep sound profile that is not overwhelmingly pronounced. Categorized as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Resonant', and 'Invigorating', it provides a unique tactile feel. On the other hand, the KTT Pine stands out with its translucent, forest green appearance. These medium-heavy switches are known for their buttery smoothness, providing an effortless typing experience. Thanks to their polished, factory-lubed finish, they minimize friction and ensure smooth key travel. Categorized as 'Bassy', 'Buttery', 'Creamy', and 'Low-pitched', the KTT Pine offers a distinct sensory 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
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the KTT Pine switches have distinct characteristics that greatly influence the sound profiles and overall typing experience. The Cream switches utilize a POM top and bottom housing, which results in a pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum and is relatively more muted. In contrast, the Pine switches feature a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a more pronounced typing sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the choice of housing material also plays a role. While both switches offer clear housings, which are commonly associated with polycarbonate, the Pine switches are more likely to incorporate RGB lighting due to the material's translucency. This allows for vibrant and visually appealing lighting effects, enhancing the overall look of the keyboard. On the other hand, the Cream switches with their POM housing might not offer the same level of RGB lighting capabilities but still provide a sleek and minimalistic appearance.
Additionally, the impact of the housing materials on the typing experience differs between the top and bottom housings. When pressing down on a switch, the characteristics of the bottom housing become more prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, the properties of the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Pine switches would be more noticeable during keypresses, resulting in a crisper and more distinct tactile feedback. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key, and in this aspect, the POM top housing of the Cream switches would deliver a deeper and more subtle sound upon key release.
Overall, while both switches offer unique sound profiles influenced by their housing materials, they provide contrasting typing experiences. The Cream switches with their POM housing offer a smoother, quieter, and more mellow typing experience, ideal for users who prefer a more subdued sound. In contrast, the Pine switches with their polycarbonate housing provide a sharper, more resonant, and visually captivating typing experience, making them a suitable choice for those seeking a more pronounced and vibrant keyboard experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, there are some notable differences. The NovelKeys Cream has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Pine has an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Pine requires a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke compared to the Cream. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Cream has a higher force of 70 grams, while the Pine measures at 58 grams. This indicates that the Cream switch provides a slightly heavier and more substantial typing experience when fully pressed down compared to the Pine switch.
Considering weight is crucial, as it influences the typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Pine switch, as its lower actuation force allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. This makes it an excellent choice for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more pronounced keystroke feel may favor the Cream switch, as its higher actuation and bottom out forces provide a more substantial typing feedback. This can be particularly appealing for those looking for a more tactile typing experience. It's important to note that while the forces differ between these two switches, both offer a medium range resistance, ensuring that users will achieve similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches will provide a consistent and satisfying key press experience, as they offer similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. With a travel distance of 4 mm, users can expect a comfortable and responsive typing or gaming experience with both switches. Neither switch is shorter or longer than the other in this aspect, making them equal in terms of 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 KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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 sound profile that is deeper than the average switch, but not excessively so. This results in a mellow and bass-heavy tone during key presses. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch provides a bassy sound profile that is also low-pitched. This means that it offers a deeper and richer sound, reminiscent of the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Both switches offer a similar low-pitched sound, which can provide a satisfying auditory experience.
In terms of feel, both the NovelKeys Cream and the KTT Pine switches provide a buttery and smooth keystroke experience. This implies that they offer a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The NovelKeys Cream switch is also described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. The KTT Pine switch is described as creamy, which can be attributed to the lubricant applied in the factory or specific materials used. Typing on either switch will provide a smooth and fluid sensation, akin to effortlessly gliding your fingers across the keys.
In conclusion, the NovelKeys Cream and KTT Pine linear switches share some similarities in their sound and feel. Both switches offer a low-pitched sound profile, providing a mellow and bass-heavy tone during key presses. Additionally, they both offer a buttery and smooth typing experience, resulting in a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation. While there may be subtle differences in their characteristics, a newcomer can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel from both switches. However, it is important to consider that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a medium-heavy linear switch with a heftier typing experience and a fairly deep sound profile, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, it offers a medium-heavy feel that provides a satisfying typing experience. The sound profile of the Cream is low-pitched and resonant, giving it a clean and sharp auditory experience. In terms of feel, the Cream switch offers a buttery and invigorating sensation, providing seamless and uniform keystrokes.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium linear switch with a smooth and effortless typing experience, the KTT Pine switch is a great option. With a bottom out force of 58 grams, it has a medium feel that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort. The Pine switch has a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, which gives it a deeper and richer tone during key presses. In terms of feel, it offers a buttery and creamy typing experience, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys with ease.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and KTT Pine switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a deeper sound profile, the Cream switch is a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a smoother and effortless typing experience with a medium force and a rich sound profile, the Pine switch is a great option. Consider your preferred typing feel and sound profile when making your decision.
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