Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that are worth considering are the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon, both of which are linear switches. The NovelKeys Cream switches offer a heftier linear typing experience with a fairly deep sound profile, giving them a unique feel compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon switches from KTT provide a buttery smooth typing experience thanks to their progressive spring and KTT's dry-lube design. While the Cream switches have a more invigorating and textured feel, the Sea Salt Lemon switches are known for their low-pitched and neutral characteristics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
No
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
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The NovelKeys Cream utilizes a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound. Conversely, the Sea Salt Lemon features a polycarbonate top housing, generating a sharper and higher-pitched sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate lends itself well to RGB lighting, making it a popular choice for those seeking visual appeal.
The bottom housings of these switches also utilize different materials. The NovelKeys Cream incorporates a POM bottom housing, which contributes to its deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Sea Salt Lemon employs a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a fuller and deeper sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a rounder and duller tone.
When using these switches, the differences in the top and bottom housing materials become apparent. The bottom housing affects the sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, influencing the bottom-out sound. Meanwhile, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, if you are seeking a switch with a deeper sound, both the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon can deliver similar results with their respective POM and nylon housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, we find some notable differences. The NovelKeys Cream has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Sea Salt Lemon's lighter 45 grams. This means that for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing or gaming, the Sea Salt Lemon may be the more suitable option, allowing for longer periods of comfortable usage. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the NovelKeys Cream requires a considerably heavier force of 70 grams, while the Sea Salt Lemon only requires 53 grams. This suggests that the NovelKeys Cream will provide a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, these differences highlight the importance of considering weight preferences for an optimal typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of both the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results.
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 Sea Salt Lemon comes in at $2.80 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, both the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches have low-pitched profiles, which means they offer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, the NovelKeys Cream has a deeper sound profile, while the Sea Salt Lemon has a more neutral sound profile. The Cream switch is also described as resonant, providing a clean and sharp sound, whereas the Sea Salt Lemon is simply described as having a moderate sound profile. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the NovelKeys Cream switch is described as buttery, meaning it provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It offers a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, it is described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon switch is described as mild, providing a more gentle typing experience. Its qualities stand in a safe, middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users.
Based on the available information, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch provides a heftier linear typing experience with a deeper sound profile and a buttery, invigorating feel. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch offers a lovely representation of a linear switch with a more neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience. Both switches have low-pitched sound profiles, and although they have their distinct characteristics, they can provide similar results in terms of sound and feel. It is important to consider personal preferences and the intended use when choosing between these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're seeking a heavier linear typing experience with a fairly deep sound profile, then the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches are the way to go. These switches offer a buttery smooth typing experience with a bit of texture. They have a bottom out force of 70 grams, which gives them a medium-heavy feel. The sound profile of the NovelKeys Cream switches is low-pitched and resonant, providing a bass-heavy and immersive auditory experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter linear typing experience with a more gentle and approachable feel, then the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches are the better choice. These switches have a bottom out force of 53 grams, making them medium-light. They offer a buttery smooth typing experience with a mild sound profile. The Sea Salt Lemons have a neutral sound profile that is low-pitched, providing a more mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches.
Ultimately, the decision between the NovelKeys Cream and the Sea Salt Lemon depends on your personal preferences. If you enjoy a heavier and more immersive typing experience with a deeper sound profile, the NovelKeys Cream is the way to go. However, if you prefer a lighter and more approachable typing experience with a mild sound profile, the Sea Salt Lemon is the better choice. Consider your typing style, desired sound and feel, and make the decision that aligns best with your preferences.
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