Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Durock White Lotus. The NovelKeys Cream is a linear switch that offers a weightier typing experience, producing a deep sound profile without being excessively loud. On the other hand, the White Lotus is a tactile switch that strikes the perfect balance between delicacy and tactility, making it ideal for extended typing sessions. It features a removable light column, allowing for vibrant RGB lighting effects to enhance your keyboard setup. Overall, the Cream switch showcases a more pronounced typing experience, while the White Lotus offers a subtle and captivating alternative. However, let's delve deeper into their characteristics and features to help you decide on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Durock White Lotus differ in their housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Cream features a POM top housing, which creates a deep and muted sound when typing. This material gives the switch a unique sound profile that is pleasing to the ear. On the other hand, the White Lotus has a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, offering a premium feel. This material choice lends the switch a unique and high-quality sensation when pressed.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Cream utilizes a POM bottom housing, similarly contributing to a deep and muffled sound profile. The softer nature of the POM plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the Cream switches. Conversely, the White Lotus boasts a nylon bottom housing, which is a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon material absorbs sound to a greater extent than harder plastics, leading to a more muffled and rounded sound when using the White Lotus switches.
Although the top and bottom housings differ between the Cream and the White Lotus, they both offer unique sound profiles. Pressing down on the Cream switch engages the qualities of the POM bottom housing, emphasizing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, releasing a key highlights the effects of the POM top housing, influencing the sound produced. Similarly, the White Lotus switch experiences a split between the top and bottom housings' qualities. The top housing plays a more significant role in the sound that occurs when releasing a key, while the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback. Therefore, while the housing materials differ, both switches provide similarly distinct and enjoyable sound experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The NovelKeys Cream has a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the White Lotus' 46 grams. This means that it requires a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke on the Cream switch. However, both switches have a relatively similar actuation force, so users can expect comparable results in terms of responsiveness.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Cream switch has a heavier force of 70 grams, while the White Lotus has a lighter force of 56 grams. This means that when fully pressed down, the Cream switch will provide a more substantial typing experience, as it requires more force to reach the bottom. On the other hand, the lighter bottom out force of the White Lotus may be preferred by users who value a lighter typing experience that allows them to type for longer periods of time without fatigue.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer lighter switches may find the White Lotus to be more suitable for their needs, as it has a lower actuation force and bottom out force. This lighter weight can be advantageous for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming sessions. On the contrary, if a user desires a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the Cream switch with its higher actuation force and bottom out force would be a better choice.
In summary, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch differ in terms of their actuation force and bottom out force. The Cream switch is heavier in both aspects, providing a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. The White Lotus, on the other hand, has lighter forces, allowing for a lighter typing experience that can be beneficial for prolonged typing sessions.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance. Both the NovelKeys Cream and the White Lotus have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, one would feel a consistent 4 mm of travel distance. Therefore, in terms of the distance the switch travels from top to bottom, both switches offer similar results and do not differ in terms of travel distance.
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 Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream and Durock White Lotus switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel.
In terms of sound, the NovelKeys Cream switches provide a low-pitched and resonant sound profile. This means that when typing on them, you can expect a deeper and more bass-heavy tone with a clean and sharp sound. On the other hand, the White Lotus switches also offer a low-pitched sound profile, but it is described as neutral. This means that the sound profile is moderate and suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced typist, and whether you use them at home or at work. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the NovelKeys Cream switches are described as buttery, textured, and invigorating. This means that they offer a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with some noticeable friction when pressed. They also provide pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the White Lotus switches are described as easy-to-press, mild, and subtle. This means that they offer gentle resistance during key presses, require minimal force to activate, and provide a low-impact and comfortable typing experience. They have a more gentle and approachable feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics.
In conclusion, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches offer a heftier linear typing experience with a deeper sound profile and invigorating feel. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus switches provide a delicate tactile option with a light and neutral sound profile, as well as an easy-to-press and subtle feel. While they have different qualities, both switches offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a deeper and more immersive typing experience, the NovelKeys Cream switches would be a great choice. If you prefer a more gentle and comfortable typing experience, the White Lotus switches would be a suitable option. It's important to consider your own preferences and needs when choosing between these two switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who enjoys a heavier, linear typing experience with a deep sound profile, then the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches would be a great choice for you. These switches provide a buttery and invigorating feel, giving you a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback. The low-pitched and resonant sound profile adds to the immersive auditory experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter tactile option with a delicate tactility, the Durock White Lotus switches are perfect for you. These switches offer an easy-to-press feel, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable. The White Lotus switches also feature a removable light column, allowing for vibrant and luminous RGB lighting effects, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Both switches have a similar low-pitched sound profile, making them suitable for shared spaces. However, the NovelKeys Cream switches have a slightly deeper sound profile compared to the White Lotus switches due to their resin construction.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and Durock White Lotus switches depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a heavier and more linear typing experience with pronounced feedback, go for the NovelKeys Cream. If you prefer a lighter tactile experience with an easy-to-press feel, choose the White Lotus. Regardless of your choice, both switches provide a high-quality and enjoyable typing experience.
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