Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. Dareu Sky V3

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Dareu Sky V3 both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Cream switches from NovelKeys are praised for their heftier linear typing experience, providing a deep sound profile that adds a tactile feel to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 switches are known for their neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, offering a balanced typing experience suitable for a variety of preferences. While the Cream switches excel in providing a textured and resonant typing experience, the Sky V3 switches prioritize comfort and precision. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh NovelKeys Cream Linear

Dareu Sky V3 Linear

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

$7.78

$4.76 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Dareu Sky V3 offer unique sound profiles due to their different properties. The POM housing of the NovelKeys Cream creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate housing of the Sky V3 produces a sharper and crisper sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Sky V3 results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, with a more absorbent quality that creates a rounder sound compared to the stiffer POM material in the NovelKeys Cream's bottom housing.

Despite the differences in housing materials, both the NovelKeys Cream and the Dareu Sky V3 offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The POM top and bottom housing of the NovelKeys Cream create a more consistent and pleasing sound overall, with a focus on a deeper tone. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Sky V3 provides a sharper and more resonant sound, with a special emphasis on clarity and brightness. The nylon bottom housing of the Sky V3 contributes to a fuller sound with a softer and more muffled quality, offering a different tactile experience from the NovelKeys Cream's POM bottom housing.

When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is crucial to note that the top and bottom housings play distinct roles in sound and feel. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and keypress feel, while the top housing affects the sound when the key is released. This means that a switch with different materials for its top and bottom housings will exhibit a split in the qualities each material brings to the overall experience. Whether it's the POM and nylon combination in the Dareu Sky V3 or the POM and polycarbonate mix in the NovelKeys Cream, understanding how these materials interact can help users choose a switch that best suits their preferences.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it is evident that the NovelKeys Cream has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the lighter 40 grams of the Sky V3. In terms of bottom out force, the NovelKeys Cream requires 70 grams while the force for the Sky V3 is unknown. The NovelKeys Cream offers a medium-heavy typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a bit more resistance, while the Sky V3 is lighter, making it suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches provide a different typing feel due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for typing comfort and feedback.

Travel distance

The Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that users will experience a similar key press feel when using either switch. The travel distance of both switches is the same, resulting in consistent performance in terms of tactile feedback and key responsiveness. This makes them both suitable choices for those who prefer a shorter travel distance for faster typing speeds and enhanced gaming performance. Overall, the travel distance of the NovelKeys Cream and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switches is equal, providing users with comparable typing experiences.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound characteristics of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, we can see a distinct difference in their sound profiles. The Cream switch offers a low-pitched and resonant sound, providing a deep and immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Sky V3 switch presents a neutral and subdued sound, catering to a wider range of users with its moderate and dampened sound profile. While both switches provide a satisfying typing sound, the Cream switch leans towards a richer and deeper tone, while the Sky V3 switch offers a more subtle and gentle sound.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, the NovelKeys Cream switch is described as buttery, textured, and invigorating, offering a smooth and fluid typing experience with pronounced feedback and a snappy feel. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 switch provides a milder typing experience, characterized by a gentler touch and a safe middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel. Both switches maintain a comfortable typing experience, with the Cream switch focusing on a more tactile and invigorating feel, while the Sky V3 switch opts for a softer and more approachable touch.

In conclusion, when considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and Dareu Sky V3 linear switches offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Cream switch provides a deeper and more resonant sound with a textured and invigorating feel, ideal for users seeking a more tactile and immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky V3 switch presents a neutral and subdued sound with a mild and gentle feel, catering to a wider audience looking for a comfortable and easy-to-use switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel during typing sessions. However, users can expect a high-quality performance from both switches, delivering satisfying results based on their unique characteristics.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a deep sound profile, the NovelKeys Cream might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral sound signature and a lighter typing experience, the Dareu Sky V3 could be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style. Make sure to test out both switches before making your final choice to ensure you are satisfied with your selection.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh NovelKeys Cream Linear

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

Dareu Sky V3 Linear

$7.78

$4.76 per 10

Learn more