Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. TKC Tangerine

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come to mind are the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the TKC Tangerine, both of which are linear switches. The NovelKeys Cream is best known for its heftier linear typing experience, offering a deep sound profile that adds texture to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Tangerine sets itself apart with its incredibly smooth feel, making each keystroke a pleasure. The use of UHWMPE housings in the Tangerine adds to its smoothness, which is a rarity in the world of bespoke mechanical switches. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can better decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh NovelKeys Cream Linear

TKC Tangerine Linear

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

$6.30 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the TKC Tangerine differ in terms of their housing materials. The NovelKeys Cream features a POM top housing, which creates a deep and muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Tangerine utilizes a UHWMPE top housing, which offers a bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. This means that the top housing of these switches plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key.

When it comes to the bottom housings, both the NovelKeys Cream and the TKC Tangerine utilize POM material. POM housings contribute to an incredibly pleasing and unique sound, characterized by a deeper tone and relatively muted sound profile. While both switches share this housing material, it is important to note that the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch.

In summary, although the top housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the TKC Tangerine differ, they each offer distinct sound profiles. The Cream's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Tangerine's UHWMPE top housing produces a brighter and clackier sound. However, both switches feature POM bottom housings, which contribute to the overall pleasing and unique sound of the switches. Therefore, while there are differences between the two switches, both can provide similar results in terms of sound quality due to the shared use of POM in the bottom housing.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it is evident that they have some similarities and differences. The NovelKeys Cream switch has an actuation force of 55 grams, which is the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the Tangerine switch's actuation force is unavailable. However, both switches have a bottom out force, which measures bottoming out and pressing all the way down. The NovelKeys Cream has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, whereas the Tangerine has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is classified as medium. Despite not having the exact actuation force for the Tangerine switch, it can be assumed that it falls within a similar range to the NovelKeys Cream, resulting in relatively similar results.

Considering weight is crucial for different preferences. Some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for extended periods, making them ideal for work or long gaming sessions. On the contrary, others prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. These individuals should opt for switches with heavier forces. In this case, the NovelKeys Cream switch would be considered heavier due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. It provides a stronger push feel, perfect for those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Meanwhile, the Tangerine switch, with its lower bottom out force, offers a lighter typing feel, allowing users to type for longer periods comfortably.

Travel distance

Both the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results. Neither one is shorter or longer in terms of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches offer a low-pitched and resonant sound profile. These switches have a deeper tone compared to average switches, providing a more mellow and bass-heavy sound experience while typing. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switches have a high-pitched sound. When pressed, they produce a sharp and crisp clack. If you prefer a cleaner and sharper sound profile, the Tangerine switches would be a great choice.

Moving on to feel, the NovelKeys Cream switches deliver a buttery and textured typing experience. The buttery feel implies a smooth and fluid keystroke, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, these switches offer an invigorating feel with pronounced feedback and snappy response. On the other hand, the Tangerine switches provide a frictionless and polished feel. They offer an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. The polished finish of these switches adds to the sleek typing experience, reducing friction and providing smooth key travel.

In conclusion, while the NovelKeys Cream and TKC Tangerine switches differ in sound and feel, both options provide high-quality typing experiences. The Cream switches offer a deep and resonant sound with a buttery and textured feel. On the other hand, the Tangerine switches have a high-pitched sound that delivers a sharp clack, along with a frictionless and polished feel. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, you can choose between these two switches to enhance your typing experience. If you desire a deeper and mellow sound with a smooth and fluid feel, go for the Cream switches. If a sharp and crisp sound with a frictionless and polished feel is more appealing to you, then the Tangerine switches will be a great fit.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're looking for a linear switch with a heavier typing experience and a deeper sound profile, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream is the way to go. These switches offer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial feel to your keystrokes. They have a low-pitched and resonant sound profile, which adds a bass-heavy and mellow tone to your typing experience. In terms of feel, the NovelKeys Cream switches are described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. They offer a seamless and uniform typing sensation, perfect for those who prefer a more invigorating and textured feel.

On the other hand, if you're looking for a linear switch that takes your typing experience to the next level with a smooth feel, the TKC Tangerine is the choice for you. These switches have a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, offering a comfortable typing experience. They produce a higher-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. The Tangerines are known for their UHWMPE housings, which contribute to their incredibly smooth feel. They are described as frictionless and buttery, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. With their polished finish, you can expect reduced friction and smooth key travel, resulting in a sleek typing experience.

Overall, the choice between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the TKC Tangerine ultimately depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a heavier and more textured typing experience with deeper sound, the NovelKeys Cream is the way to go. However, if you prioritize a smooth and frictionless feel with a higher-pitched sound profile, the TKC Tangerine is a great choice.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh NovelKeys Cream Linear

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

TKC Tangerine Linear

$6.30 per 10

Learn more