Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a unique typing experience, both the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Dareu Snow linear switches stand out as exceptional choices. The NovelKeys Cream is known for providing a heftier linear typing experience with a deep sound profile that is both textured and invigorating. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch utilizes innovative POK material in both the top housing and stem, resulting in a smoother typing experience with a deeper sound signature. While the Cream switch is categorized as 'buttery' and 'resonant', the Snow switch is described as 'thocky' and 'bouncy'. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Dareu Snow switches boast unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound and feel. The Cream features POM top and bottom housings, creating a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Snow utilizes POK for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The POK material provides a smoother and more durable experience, while nylon offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. These differences in materials ultimately result in distinct typing experiences for users of both switches.
In terms of durability, the Dareu Snow switch stands out with its POK top housing, which is significantly stronger than POM. The wear resistance of the POK material is an impressive 14 times stronger than POM, making it a robust choice for long-term use. Additionally, the shock resistance of POK surpasses both Nylon and POM materials, ensuring that the Snow switch can withstand heavy usage without sacrificing performance. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch may not offer the same level of durability as the Snow due to its POM construction, but it still delivers a unique and pleasing sound profile that many users enjoy.
While both the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Dareu Snow switches offer a smooth typing experience, their housing materials play a significant role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Cream's POM housings contribute to a deeper and more muted sound, while the Snow's POK and nylon housings offer a smoother and clacky typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and durability. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience that will satisfy the needs of most users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it's evident that the NovelKeys Cream is slightly heavier than the Snow. The NovelKeys Cream has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Snow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, making them suitable for a variety of preferences. The NovelKeys Cream provides a slightly stronger push feel, which may appeal to those seeking a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Snow offers a lighter touch, potentially allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The NovelKeys Cream has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Snow. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the NovelKeys Cream being on the higher end and the Snow being on the lower end. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Snow, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the longer travel distance of the NovelKeys Cream. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference and typing 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 Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch offers a low-pitched and resonant profile, providing a deep and immersive typing experience. In comparison, the Dareu Snow switch is described as thocky and low-pitched, offering a rich and satisfying sound when pressed. Both switches deliver a deep sound profile, but the Cream switch may have a slightly deeper tone due to its construction. However, the switch sound can also be affected by the keyboard case, plate material, keycaps, and typing technique used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the NovelKeys Cream switch is known for its buttery and textured typing experience, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke with a seamless sensation. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback that gives keys a lively and rebounding feel when pressed. The Cream switch may offer a more invigorating and pronounced feedback compared to the Snow switch due to its design. Ultimately, the feel of a switch can be subjective based on individual preference in terms of actuation force, tactile feedback, and overall typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Cream switch provides a deep, resonant sound and a smooth, seamless typing feel, while the Snow switch delivers a rich, thocky sound and a bouncy, spring-like typing experience. Depending on your personal preference for sound pitch and tactile feedback, both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience that is comparable in quality. When deciding between the two, consider factors such as typing style, keycap selection, and overall typing environment to choose the switch that best suits your needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, you should consider your preferences in terms of typing experience. If you enjoy a heavier bottom out force and a deeper sound profile, the NovelKeys Cream may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and a unique, deep sound signature, the Dareu Snow switch with its innovative use of POK material may be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience, so it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel.
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