Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, you may be considering the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp). Each switch offers a unique typing experience, catering to different preferences and needs. The NovelKeys Cream is a linear switch, providing a satisfyingly hefty typing experience with a deep sound profile. It offers a buttery and textured feel that is invigorating to type on. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is a tactile switch that not only provides a medium bump but is also specially designed for noise-sensitive environments. It offers a padded bottom-out feel and subdued audio feedback. Both switches have their own distinctive characteristics, making them worthy contenders. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) differ in terms of their sound profiles and aesthetic qualities. The NovelKeys Cream features POM housings for both the top and bottom, which create a pleasing and unique sound that is deeper and relatively more muted. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent T1 allows for the use of RGB lighting due to its translucency, enhancing the visual appeal.
Despite their differences, both switches yield similarly pleasing results in terms of sound quality. The POM housing of the NovelKeys Cream and the nylon bottom housing of the Silent T1 contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent T1 provides a clear and resonant sound, which can be comparable to the unique sound produced by the POM top housing of the NovelKeys Cream. Therefore, while their specific sound characteristics may differ, users can expect satisfying auditory experiences from both switches.
When it comes to the tactile experience, the choice of housing material for each switch plays a significant role. The bottom housing has a more direct impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed. With the nylon bottom housing of the Silent T1, users can expect a switch that absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic, resulting in a duller and rounder sound upon bottoming out. Conversely, the top housing has a larger influence on the sound when releasing a key. The polycarbonate top housing of the Silent T1 produces a sharp and crisp sound when the key is released, contrasting with the relatively more muted sound of the POM top housing of the NovelKeys Cream. Therefore, users can select a switch based on their preferred combination of bottom-out and release sound qualities by considering the housing materials utilized in each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The NovelKeys Cream has an actuation force of 55 grams, which means it requires a relatively moderate force to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Silent T1 is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. Moving on to the bottom out force, the NovelKeys Cream has a slightly heavier force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience when fully pressed down. On the other hand, the Silent T1 has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is slightly lighter but still falls within the medium-heavy range.
Considering weight, which plays a crucial role for many users, it is important to note that a lighter switch allows for longer typing sessions and proves beneficial for both work and gaming scenarios. However, for those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, choosing a switch with a heavier force is recommended. In this case, the NovelKeys Cream may be the preferable option due to its slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Silent T1.
In conclusion, while the actuation force of the NovelKeys Cream is known to be 55 grams and the Silent T1's actuation force is unknown, their bottom out forces are closer in range with the NovelKeys Cream being slightly heavier at 70 grams compared to the Silent T1's 67 grams. Therefore, if one desires a lighter typing feel, both switches would likely yield similar results. However, for those who prefer a heavier and more substantial typing experience, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream may be the better choice.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance as the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance when using either of these switches.
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 Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent T1 (Shrimp) for $5.57.
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 is best known for its heftier linear typing experience and fairly deep sound profile. The low-pitched sound of the Cream switches offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The sound profile is clean and sharp, providing an immersive auditory experience. In terms of feel, the Cream switches are described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. They provide a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. They also have an invigorating feel with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel.
On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is perfect for those who want both a tactile and silenced switch. It is ideal for noise-sensitive environments with its muted sound profile. The Silent T1 offers a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback. The tactile feel of the Silent T1 is described as stepped, meaning it feels like it has two stages. It has a mild tactility with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. The switch provides a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, making it an accented tactile switch. The Silent T1 also has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. It offers reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Based on the available information, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Durock Silent T1 offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream switches have a low-pitched sound profile with a clean and sharp sound, while the Silent T1 has a muted sound profile that minimizes noise. In terms of feel, the Cream switches provide a buttery and invigorating typing sensation, while the Silent T1 offers a stepped and accented tactile experience with a polished finish. Each switch offers unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a linear switch with a deep sound profile and a buttery feel, the Cream switches would be a great choice. If you prefer a muted, tactile switch with a stepped feel and a polished finish, the Silent T1 would be a suitable option. Considering these subjective qualities, it is important to remember that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps being used. Therefore, it's recommended to consider these factors when choosing between the switches mentioned.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you prioritize a heftier linear typing experience with a deep sound profile, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch would be a suitable choice for you. It offers a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams and a low-pitched, resonant sound. The feel of the Cream switch is described as buttery, providing a seamless and fluid keystroke experience.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch that also offers a silenced typing experience, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch would be a great option. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, it provides a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel. The Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch has a muted sound profile, which is ideal for noise-sensitive environments. Its feel is described as stepped, accented, and polished, offering a mild tactility and a smooth and refined typing experience.
Ultimately, your choice between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) would depend on your preferences for linear switches with a deep sound profile or tactile switches with a silenced typing experience. Consider your typing style, noise sensitivity, and desired feel to make an informed decision.
Mentioned in this article
