Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up are the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the TTC Silent Brown. The Cream switch stands out for its hefty linear typing experience, providing a deep sound profile that adds a satisfying texture to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch offers a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a pleasing rounded tactile bump. Additionally, these switches are praised for their muted sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
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
3.80 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 TTC Silent Brown switches provide distinct sound profiles. The NovelKeys Cream features POM housings for both the top and bottom. This results in a deep and muted sound profile when typing or releasing a key. In contrast, the Silent Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, especially suitable for users who wish to incorporate RGB lighting into their setup. The nylon bottom housing, on the other hand, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the top housing materials of these switches differ. The NovelKeys Cream's POM top housing does not offer translucency, while the Silent Brown's polycarbonate top housing does. This means that the Silent Brown switch is more visually appealing for users interested in showcasing RGB lighting effects. Additionally, the choice of housing materials for the top housing of the switches influences the sound when a key is released. The POM top housing of the NovelKeys Cream contributes to a more muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Brown provides a clearer and resonant sound when a key is let go.
While the top and bottom housing materials of these switches vary, they both contribute to the overall sound and feel of the keys. The bottom housing material plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed. For the NovelKeys Cream, the POM bottom housing results in a deep and muted sound when typing. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Silent Brown creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Conversely, the top housing material is more influential on the sound when a key is released, with the POM top housing of the NovelKeys Cream providing a muted sound and the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Brown creating a sharper and crisper sound. However, it is important to note that despite the differences in housing materials, both switches offer pleasing and unique sounds in their own way.
Weight
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch have similar actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for a variety of typists. The NovelKeys Cream has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Brown requires a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams but has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is still in the medium-heavy range.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Silent Brown may be the better choice with its lower actuation force. This switch allows for longer periods of typing without causing fatigue, which is ideal for individuals who use their keyboard extensively for work or gaming. However, for those who enjoy a heavier and more substantial push feel, the NovelKeys Cream offers a slightly higher actuation and bottom out force. This heavier force provides a satisfying feedback and can be preferred by typists who desire a more tactile typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer a balance between lightness and force, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the NovelKeys Cream has a longer travel distance at 4 mm, while the Silent Brown has a slightly shorter travel distance at 3.8 mm.
The 4.0 mm travel distance of the NovelKeys Cream is more in line with the traditional travel distance, offering a deeper press and a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the Silent Brown with its 3.8 mm travel distance provides a slightly shallower travel experience.
For gamers or individuals seeking faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the Silent Brown may be preferred, allowing for quicker keystrokes and improved overall speed. In contrast, those who appreciate a more robust and hearty typing experience may gravitate towards the NovelKeys Cream and its longer travel distance.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific requirements of the user. Both switches offer distinct travel distances that cater to different needs, ensuring that regardless of choice, users will be able to find a switch that suits their typing or gaming style.
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 TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $3.68.
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
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel.
In terms of sound, the NovelKeys Cream switches have a low-pitched and resonant profile. The low-pitched sound gives a bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the resonant profile produces a clean and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switches have a muted sound profile, which means they produce softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps, so results may vary.
Moving on to feel, both switches share the quality of being buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. However, the NovelKeys Cream switches are also described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. This creates an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switches are described as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience with qualities that stand in a safe, middle-ground zone. They are also polished, meaning they have a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch differ in terms of sound and feel. The Cream switches have a deep, low-pitched and resonant sound profile, and provide an invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switches have a muted sound profile and offer a mild and polished typing experience. Both switches have a buttery feel, ensuring a smooth and fluid keystroke. However, it is important to consider other factors such as keyboard and keycap choices to achieve the desired sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a linear switch with a heavier bottom out force and a deep sound profile, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a heftier typing experience and produce a low-pitched and resonant sound profile. They also provide a buttery and invigorating feel, ensuring a smooth and immersive typing sensation.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a lighter bottom out force and a muted sound profile, the TTC Silent Brown would be the better option. These switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a rounded tactile bump and a muted sound profile. They provide a buttery and polished feel, ensuring a seamless and refined typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the NovelKeys Cream and the TTC Silent Brown boils down to your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and feel. If you prioritize a heavier linear switch with a deep sound profile and an invigorating feel, go for the NovelKeys Cream. If you prefer a lighter tactile switch with a muted sound profile and a polished feel, go for the TTC Silent Brown. Consider your typing style and preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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