Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro stand out as two popular options with distinct characteristics. The NovelKeys Cream is a linear switch known for its heftier typing experience and deep sound profile, making it a great choice for those who prefer a smooth and low-pitched typing feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro is a tactile switch offering a medium tactility with a light touch, making it a balanced option for those who enjoy a neutral sound signature. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, one key difference lies in the top housing material. The Cream features a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Violet Gold Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting, adding a visually striking element to the switch.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the NovelKeys Cream and Dareu Violet Gold Pro also diverge in their materials. The Cream boasts a POM bottom housing, mirroring the sound profile of the top housing with its pleasing and unique sound. In contrast, the Violet Gold Pro incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which enhances the sound with a deeper and fuller profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound compared to the stiffer POM material.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the NovelKeys Cream and Dareu Violet Gold Pro differ, each plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile of the switch. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, with materials like nylon contributing to a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the top housing is more influential in the sound produced when a key is released, with POM and polycarbonate offering distinct profiles of muted depths or sharper pitches. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique sound experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it is evident that the NovelKeys Cream is heavier in both aspects. The Cream linear switch has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Violet Gold Pro tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. The difference in weight between the two switches may appeal to different preferences. Some users may enjoy the lighter actuation force of the Violet Gold Pro for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the more substantial typing experience of the heavier NovelKeys Cream. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the NovelKeys Cream being slightly longer than the Violet Gold Pro. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Violet Gold Pro for quicker response times, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may opt for the NovelKeys Cream. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and the typing experience desired.
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 Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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 NovelKeys Cream linear switch offers a low-pitched and resonant typing experience, with a deep and immersive sound profile that adds a sense of satisfaction to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch provides a neutral sound signature, catering to a wide range of users seeking a balanced and comfortable typing sound without being too loud or too subtle. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences that can enhance the overall typing feel depending on personal preferences and setup.
In terms of feel, the NovelKeys Cream linear switch is characterized by a buttery, textured, and invigorating typing sensation, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke with noticeable friction and a satisfying feedback. On the contrary, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch provides a stepped tactile experience, with a mild two-stage bump that adds a subtle tactility without being too overwhelming. These differences in feel cater to different typing styles and preferences, allowing users to choose based on their desired typing experience.
Overall, the NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. While the Cream switch provides a deeper and more resonant sound with a buttery and invigorating feel, the Violet Gold Pro switch offers a neutral sound signature with a stepped tactile experience. Depending on whether you prefer a heavier linear typing experience with pronounced feedback or a balanced tactile feel with a lighter touch, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, you should choose the Cream switches if you prefer a heavier typing experience with a deep sound profile that is low-pitched and resonant. These switches offer a buttery and invigorating feel, providing a smooth and uniform typing sensation. On the other hand, you should opt for the Violet Gold Pro switches if you prefer a lighter tactile experience with a neutral sound profile. These switches offer a stepped feel, providing a balanced typing experience with a light touch. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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