Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Gazzew U4Tx switches. The Cream switches are well-known for their heftier linear typing experience, providing a deep sound profile that sets them apart from other switches. On the other hand, the U4Tx switches offer a unique combination of features, aiming to deliver a cleaner and refined sound profile that combines the deep and resonant "thock" when bottoming out with the whisper-quiet stealth when topping out. They also provide a sharp and satisfying tactile bump. While these general descriptions give an overview of the switches, it's important to delve deeper into their specific qualities to make the best decision for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Gazzew U4Tx switches offer contrasting characteristics that affect the overall sound and feel of the switches. The NovelKeys Cream features a POM top and bottom housing, which creates a unique and pleasing sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted. On the other hand, the U4Tx utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housing, known as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness.
While both switches have top housings that contribute to the sound when releasing a key, the POM top housing in the NovelKeys Cream and the Gazzew blend top housing in the U4Tx offer distinct qualities. The POM top housing produces a sound that is on the deeper side and muted, creating a unique auditory experience. In contrast, the U4Tx's Gazzew blend top housing provides a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness, resulting in a slightly different and potentially more satisfying sound when releasing a key.
When it comes to the bottom housings, the distinctions between the switches become more evident. The POM bottom housing in the NovelKeys Cream and the Gazzew blend bottom housing in the U4Tx have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Each material brings its own unique qualities to the switch, contributing to the overall tactile experience. Therefore, while both switches may offer similar qualities in their top housings, the bottom housings play a crucial role in the feel and sound of the switches, leading to potentially different typing experiences.
In summary, despite some similarities in the sound profiles created by the top housings of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Gazzew U4Tx switches, their distinct housing materials result in noticeable differences in sound and feel. The POM housing in the NovelKeys Cream offers a deeper and more muted sound, while the Gazzew blend housing in the U4Tx delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Furthermore, the bottom housings of each switch also contribute to the overall typing experience, with the NovelKeys Cream's POM bottom housing and the U4Tx's Gazzew blend bottom housing playing different roles in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, there are a few distinct differences. Firstly, the NovelKeys Cream has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range. On the other hand, the actuation force of the U4Tx switch is currently unknown. However, its bottom out force is 65 grams, also considered medium-heavy.
In terms of weight, some individuals prefer a lighter switch, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing or extended gaming sessions. This lighter option would be suitable for those bringing their keyboard to work or engaging in lengthy gaming endeavors. Conversely, others enjoy a stronger actuation force, as it provides a more substantial and satisfying typing experience. These individuals will likely prefer switches with heavier forces.
While the actuation force of the NovelKeys Cream is specified at 55 grams, the U4Tx's actuation force remains unanswered. However, since they both fall within the medium-heavy range for bottom out force, it is reasonable to assume that the typing experience and actuation force would be relatively similar between the two switches. Overall, the NovelKeys Cream is slightly heavier, while the U4TX is slightly lighter in terms of bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, we can see that the NovelKeys Cream has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the U4Tx has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The NovelKeys Cream falls into the more traditional range of travel distances at 4.0 mm, while the U4Tx is on the shallower end at 3.6 mm. This difference in travel distance may be significant to some individuals, depending on their preferences and needs. For gamers seeking a faster response time, the shorter travel distance of the U4Tx may be more appealing. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper and more satisfying keystroke experience may gravitate towards the NovelKeys Cream with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Gazzew U4Tx comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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
In terms of sound, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches offer a deeper, low-pitched profile compared to the average switch, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone during key presses. The sound is resonant, resulting in a higher-pitched profile and an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches have a bassy sound profile, characterized by a deeper and richer tone, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The U4Tx switches produce a muted sound, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Overall, both switches offer unique sound profiles with the Cream switches leaning towards a deeper sound and the U4Tx switches producing a bassy, muted sound.
When it comes to feel, typing on the NovelKeys Cream switches provides a buttery and seamless keystroke experience. The switches offer a smooth and fluid typing sensation, allowing for effortless typing. The Cream switches also have a textured option, which provides noticeable friction when pressed and might be preferred by users who enjoy a slightly textured feel. Additionally, the Cream switches are described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, enhancing the typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches are highlighted for their sharp tactile bump, which provides high feedback intensity. This tactile bump is distinct and can be felt prominently with each keypress. While the Cream switches offer a more varied range of qualitative descriptions, the U4Tx switches excel in providing a sharp and crisp tactile experience.
In conclusion, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switches and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream switches have a low-pitched, resonant sound profile, providing a deeper and mellow tone compared to average switches. They offer a buttery and invigorating feel, with options for a textured typing experience. On the other hand, the U4Tx switches have a bassy and muted sound profile, minimizing keyboard noise. The U4Tx switches excel in offering a sharp and crisp tactile experience with a prominent tactile bump. Both switches provide unique and luxurious typing experiences, allowing users to choose based on their preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a linear switch with a heavier bottom out force and a deeper sound profile, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch would be a great choice. These switches provide a heftier typing experience and have a low-pitched and resonant sound profile, creating an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch that offers both a satisfying bump and a refined sound profile, the Gazzew U4Tx switch is the way to go. These switches offer a clean and sharp sound profile, with a deep "thock" when bottoming out and whisper-quiet topping out. They also have a lower bottom out force compared to the NovelKeys Cream switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience, sound, and feel. Whether you prioritize a linear or tactile switch, both the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and Gazzew U4Tx switches provide a luxurious and enjoyable typing experience.
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