Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are many factors to consider, such as typing experience, sound profile, and overall feel. Two switches that take these factors into account are the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the KTT Rose. The Cream switches are known for providing a heftier linear typing experience, with a deeper sound profile that is not overly pronounced. On the other hand, the Rose switches offer a uniquely substantial typing experience without being too heavy, accompanied by a pleasing low-pitched sound reminiscent of bassy raindrops. While these general characteristic descriptions give a sense of the switches' qualities, it is important to dive deeper to better understand which switch will best suit your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the KTT Rose switches differ significantly. The Cream's top housing is made of POM, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Rose's top housing is made of polycarbonate, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the polycarbonate material allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal. While both materials are unique in their sound production, the Cream's POM top housing provides a more subdued experience, whereas the Rose's polycarbonate top housing offers a more vibrant, lively sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Cream utilizes POM, creating a deep and rich sound profile. In comparison, the Rose adopts a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a fuller and deeper sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Although both materials elicit a pleasant typing experience, the Cream's POM bottom housing leans towards a deeper and more muted sound, while the Rose's nylon bottom housing offers a fuller and rounder sound.
Considering the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, the Cream and Rose switches showcase how the qualities of each housing material affect the sound produced. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, the Cream's POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper and more muted sound upon pressing, while the Rose's nylon bottom housing provides a fuller and deeper sound. On the other hand, when releasing a key, the top housing comes into play. The Cream's POM top housing delivers a deeper and more muted release sound, whereas the Rose's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper release sound. Ultimately, these differing housing materials result in distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences for the users.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch to the KTT Rose linear switch, there are similarities and differences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The actuation force of the NovelKeys Cream is 55 grams, while the actuation force of the Rose switch is unknown. However, both switches fall under the category of medium-heavy in terms of actuation force.
Moving on to bottom out force, the NovelKeys Cream has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is slightly heavier than the Rose switch's bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This means that when typing on the NovelKeys Cream switch, the keys require a slightly stronger push to reach the bottom compared to the Rose switch.
Weight is an important consideration, as some prefer lighter switches for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions, while others prefer a heavier switch for a more substantial typing experience. In this case, the NovelKeys Cream can be considered the heavier option due to its slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces.
In summary, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch differ in their actuation and bottom out forces. While the NovelKeys Cream has a known actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, the exact actuation force of the Rose switch is unavailable, and its bottom out force is 63.5 grams. The NovelKeys Cream is slightly heavier than the Rose switch, making it suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. However, both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, ensuring similar results despite the slight differences in force requirements.
Travel distance
Both the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, which means that pressing down on either switch will result in a similar sensing of key movement. These switches offer a consistent and satisfying travel distance, providing a tactile experience that users can rely on. In terms of travel distance, there is no noticeable difference between the two switches, making them equally suitable for those seeking a reliable and consistent typing experience.
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 Rose comes in at $3.01 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
In terms of sound, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches offer a low-pitched and resonant sound profile. This means that when typing on these switches, you can expect a deeper, bass-heavy tone with a clean and sharp quality. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switches also have a low-pitched sound, but it is described as more neutral. This means that the Rose switches have a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the NovelKeys Cream switches are described as buttery, textured, and invigorating. This means that they provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, they offer pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switches are described as mild and polished. This means that they offer a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. They also have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but with different characteristics.
In conclusion, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches are known for their heftier linear typing experience, deep sound profile, and invigorating feel. They provide a bass-heavy tone with pronounced feedback and a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switches offer a uniquely substantial, yet not heavy, typing experience with a neutral sound profile and a mild and polished feel. Both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, but each has its own distinct qualities. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences and the specific typing experience one is seeking. However, it is worth noting that there are similarities in sound and feel between the two switches, as they both offer low-pitched characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, both the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the KTT Rose would be suitable options for you. The Cream switches provide a heftier typing experience with a fairly deep sound profile. On the other hand, the Rose switches offer a unique typing experience with the use of progressive springs and a bassy raindrop sound.
In terms of sound, both switches have a low-pitched profile, which offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. However, the Cream switches have a resonant sound profile, providing a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience with a clean and sharp sound. Meanwhile, the Rose switches have a neutral sound profile with a moderate tone, making them suitable for various purposes and users.
When it comes to feel, the Cream switches are described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. They offer a seamless and effortless typing sensation. In contrast, the Rose switches have a mild and polished feel. They offer a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the KTT Rose switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a heftier typing experience with a resonant sound and buttery feel, the Cream switches would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a unique typing experience with a neutral sound profile and a mild and polished feel, the Rose switches would be more suitable for you. Consider your desired sound and feel, and choose the switch that aligns with your preferences.
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