Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. Gazzew U4T

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Gazzew U4T. The Cream switches offer a unique linear typing experience, known for their heftier feel and deep sound profile. On the other hand, the U4T switches boast a satisfying fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, producing a bassy "thock" sound paired with assertive tactile feedback. Both switches have their own distinctive characteristics that may appeal to different typists. The NovelKeys Cream switches provide a buttery and textured typing experience, while the Gazzew U4T switches offer auditory and tactile satisfaction with their thocky sound and sharp feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.

By the numbers

Kailh NovelKeys Cream Linear

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Gazzew U4T switches differ in their housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The NovelKeys Cream utilizes POM (polyoxymethylene) for both the top and bottom housings. This material produces a pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum and has a relatively more muted tone. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T employs a proprietary Gazzew blend for its top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic." This particular plastic blend contributes to a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Therefore, while both switches offer satisfying and unique auditory experiences, the Cream's POM housing leans more towards a subdued deep sound, while the U4T's Gazzew blend housing creates a more pronounced and rich tonality.

When it comes to the bottom housing, the qualities of the housing material become more apparent in the typing experience. The NovelKeys Cream's POM bottom housing, like its top housing, contributes to the switch's overall sound profile. The POM material leads to a deeper sound and a more muted perception when bottoming out a key. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T's proprietary blend "boba plastic" bottom housing delivers a different sound profile influenced by its softness. This softer material likely provides a more cushioned bottom-out experience, adding to the switch's overall rich and deep sound. Thus, the bottom housing plays a significant role in shaping the sound and feel of each switch, making them distinct in their own right.

When it comes to the top housing, the focus shifts to the sound produced upon key release. The top housing material has more impact on the sound quality during this phase. The NovelKeys Cream's POM top housing, much like its bottom housing, contributes to a deeper and more muted sound when letting go of a key. The slightly softer sound upon key release complements the deep sound profile during typing. Similarly, the Gazzew U4T's Gazzew blend top housing has a significant influence on the sound when releasing a key, enhancing the richness and depth that this switch is known for. Therefore, although the top housing doesn't have as direct of an impact on the typing experience compared to the bottom housing, it still contributes to the overall auditory satisfaction of each switch.

In summary, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Gazzew U4T switches differentiate themselves through their housing materials. The Cream's POM top and bottom housings produce a more muted and deeper sound profile, while the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housings create a rich and deep tonal experience. The bottom housing influences the sound and feel when bottoming out, with each switch's material contributing to its respective sound profile. Similarly, the top housing impacts the sound produced upon key release, further enhancing the distinct audio characteristics of each switch. However, both switches offer satisfying auditory experiences, albeit with different nuances, ensuring high-quality performance for keyboard enthusiasts seeking unique sound profiles.

Weight

When comparing the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The NovelKeys Cream has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the U4T's actuation force is unavailable. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 62 grams, making them relatively similar in this aspect. In terms of weight, the Cream can be considered heavier, as it requires a stronger push at 55 grams for actuation and 70 grams for bottoming out. This weight may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the U4T's weight remains unknown, but given its lower bottom out force of 62 grams, it can be assumed to be lighter than the NovelKeys Cream. The lighter weight of the U4T may be favored by individuals seeking a switch that allows for longer typing sessions, making it suitable for work or extended gaming. Ultimately, the differences in actuation force and bottom out force between these switches cater to different preferences and typing needs.

Travel distance

Both the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Thus, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer a similar experience to the user.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch produces a low-pitched and resonant sound profile. The deep sound is reminiscent of a bass-heavy and mellow tone, providing an immersive auditory experience during typing. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile. With every key press, you can expect a deep, rich, and satisfying sound resembling a deep "thud" or a soft "knock." While both switches offer a deeper sound profile, the Cream switch has a more resonant and immersive quality, while the U4T switch has a more bassy and thocky tone.

In terms of feel, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch provides a buttery and textured typing experience. The switches offer a smooth and fluid keystroke, creating a seamless and effortless typing sensation. However, some users may prefer a slight friction when typing, which the Cream switch can provide with its textured feel. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T switch provides a sharp tactile experience. The switch has a strong and crisp tactile bump that is distinctly felt with each key press. The U4T switch offers a high feedback intensity, providing a pronounced and invigorating typing sensation.

Based on the available information, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream switch provides a deep and resonant sound, paired with a buttery and textured feel. On the other hand, the U4T switch offers a bassy and thocky sound, accompanied by a sharp and tactile feel. Depending on personal preferences, both switches can provide satisfying experiences for different typing styles.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a heavier linear typing experience with a fairly deep sound profile, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch would be a great choice for you. These switches provide a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, offering a buttery and invigorating typing sensation. With a low-pitched and resonant sound profile, the Cream switches deliver a clean and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, the Gazzew U4T would be more suitable. These switches combine thockiness and sharp tactility, providing a bassy 'thock' sound profile and an assertive tactile feedback that delivers both auditory and tactile satisfaction. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for linear or tactile switches, as well as your desired typing experience in terms of sound and feel.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh NovelKeys Cream Linear

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more