Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Wuque Studio WS Brown are two popular mechanical keyboard switches with distinct features that cater to different preferences. The Cream switches from Kailh offer a unique linear typing experience characterized by a deeper sound profile. These switches are often described as "buttery," "low-pitched," and "textured." With their resonant and invigorating feel, they provide a heftier typing experience compared to the average switch. On the other hand, the WS Brown switches from Wuque Studio strike a harmonious balance between familiarity and innovation. These tactile switches have a medium-light actuation force, ensuring both responsiveness and comfort during extended typing sessions. Their nylon housing and POM stem combination provide a familiar and delightful auditory experience cherished by keyboard enthusiasts. While these general pointers can help you choose between the two switches initially, let's dive deeper into their characteristics to determine the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profile. The NovelKeys Cream utilizes a POM top and bottom housing, while the WS Brown incorporates a nylon top and bottom housing. Both POM and nylon are known to create satisfying auditory experiences, albeit with some distinctions.
The POM top housing of the NovelKeys Cream yields a unique sound that is deeper and relatively more muted. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the WS Brown elicits a fuller and rounder sound. This is attributed to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, users can expect a slightly duller but still pleasant sound when typing on the WS Brown switches.
In terms of bottom housing, both the NovelKeys Cream and the WS Brown feature POM and nylon, respectively. These materials contribute to the deeper sound profile found in both switches. However, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel may vary due to the distinct properties of POM and nylon. The POM bottom housing of the NovelKeys Cream is likely to provide a slightly different bottom-out experience compared to the WS Brown's nylon bottom housing.
It is important to note that the top housing has more influence on the sound when a key is released, while the qualities of the bottom housing primarily impact the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of the overall sound profile when comparing the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches. However, due to the variation in material composition, there may be subtle differences in the sound and tactile experience between the two.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Kailh NovelKeys Cream has an actuation force of 55 grams, indicating a medium-heavy push required to register a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Wuque Studio WS Brown switch is unavailable, but it is safe to assume it falls within a similar range. Both switches have a bottom out force of 55 grams, making them medium-light in terms of the pressure needed to fully depress the key.
Considering weight, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Wuque Studio WS Brown switch as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This makes it suitable for work environments or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial keystroke feel may opt for the Kailh NovelKeys Cream, which requires a heavier actuation force. This can provide a sense of feedback and solidity while typing.
In summary, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offers a medium-heavy actuation force and a medium-light bottom out force, while the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch provides a similar but potentially lighter experience due to the unknown actuation force. Both switches offer their own advantages, allowing users to select based on their preference for typing comfort and feedback.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch is 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0 mm being the more common option and 3.8 mm offering a slightly shallower feel. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize quick and responsive keystrokes, the WS Brown with its 3.8 mm travel distance may be the better choice. However, some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt and may prefer a switch with a longer travel distance, such as the NovelKeys Cream's 4 mm option, for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference and the desired level of key depth.
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 Wuque Studio WS Brown comes in at $3.50 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 fairly deep sound profile that is deeper than the average switch but not overly so. These switches have a low-pitched tone that provides a more bass-heavy and mellow sound experience compared to higher-pitched switches. They also have a resonant sound profile, which means you can expect a higher-pitched sound that is clean and sharp. On the other hand, the sound of the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches is not described, so it is unknown how they compare in terms of sound. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches are known for their buttery and textured typing experience. The term "buttery" implies a smooth and fluid keystroke, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. These switches offer a uniform and consistent feel throughout. Additionally, they are described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and a snappy and reactive feel. They have a moderate to firm actuation force, creating an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, there is no provided description for the feel of the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches, so it is unknown how they compare in terms of tactile feedback and typing experience.
In conclusion, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches are characterized by their heftier linear typing experience with a deep sound profile and a buttery, textured, and invigorating feel. They provide a familiar auditory experience and are cherished by enthusiasts. On the other hand, information about the sound and feel of the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches is not provided. If you are looking for a similar auditory experience to the NovelKeys Cream, the low-pitched and resonant qualities may still be achievable. Likewise, if you are seeking a comparable typing feel, you can look for switches that offer a buttery, textured, and invigorating sensation. As always, personal preference and individual typing style will ultimately dictate the best switch for each user.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are seeking a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a deep sound profile, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream would be an excellent choice. These Cream switches provide a heftier typing experience and offer a low-pitched and resonant sound profile, creating an immersive auditory experience. In terms of feel, the NovelKeys Cream is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force, the Wuque Studio WS Brown would be a great option. These switches strike a harmonious balance between responsiveness and comfort, ensuring fatigue-free typing during those extended sessions. Typing on WS Brown switches offers a familiar and delightful auditory experience due to its familiar nylon housing and POM stem combination. While we do not have specific information about the sound and feel of the WS Brown switches, they are known for their elegance and innovation.
Ultimately, the decision between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and Wuque Studio WS Brown depends on your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing experience. Consider the information provided to choose the switch that aligns with your desired typing experience and auditory sensations.
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