Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi are two options worth considering. The Cream switches from Kailh provide a satisfyingly hefty linear typing experience, accompanied by a deep sound profile that adds an invigorating texture to your keystrokes. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switches by Wuque Studio boast a combination of innovation and visual aesthetics. These ultra-smooth linear switches feature a unique light diffusing design that enhances RGB visuals and creates a mesmerizing effect. The WS Morandi switches offer a distinct dry and airy smoothness, differentiating them from the creamy feel of factory-lubed switches. With a medium weight and slightly shortened total travel, these switches strike a balance between form and function. While the Cream switches offer a more pronounced sound profile, the Morandi switches offer a slightly more muted sound experience. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make the best switch choice for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches share many similarities. Both switches utilize POM (Polyoxymethylene) for their top and bottom housings. POM housings are known for creating an incredibly pleasing and unique sound, with a deep and relatively muted sound profile. This means that both switches will deliver a satisfying typing experience with a subdued and low-toned sound when pressing down on the keys.
However, it's important to note that while the materials used are the same, the split housing design of the switches means that the qualities of the POM material will be divided between the top and bottom housing. When actuating the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch, for instance, the bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will be more influential in producing the sound when the key is released. This can lead to a slight difference in the overall typing experience between the two switches.
Despite these differences, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel when using either the Kailh NovelKeys Cream or the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches. Both switches leverage POM housing to create a pleasant and distinctive typing sound, with a deeper tone that is more subdued compared to other materials. Whether you choose the NovelKeys Cream or the WS Morandi, you can enjoy a satisfying typing experience with a sound profile that's unique and resonating.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. The NovelKeys Cream has an actuation force of 55 grams, which is lighter than the WS Morandi's unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a bottom out force that is relatively close, with the Cream at 70 grams and the WS Morandi at 60 grams. This means that while the NovelKeys Cream requires a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke, both switches provide a similar level of resistance when pressing all the way down.
Considering the weight of a switch is important as it can greatly impact the typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter switch, like the NovelKeys Cream, may appreciate its ability to allow for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. This lighter actuation force makes it a suitable choice for those using a keyboard for work or engaging in prolonged gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more substantial and forceful typing experience may lean towards options with heavier actuation forces. In this case, the WS Morandi could be a suitable choice with its medium actuation force, although the specific force is undisclosed.
In conclusion, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switches offer different actuation forces. The Cream is lighter in terms of actuation force, while the WS Morandi's actuation force remains unknown. However, both switches share a similar bottom out force, providing a comparable level of resistance when fully pressed down. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier actuation force.
Travel distance
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch have different travel distances. The NovelKeys Cream has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance. On the other hand, the WS Morandi has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the WS Morandi the shorter option when comparing the two switches. Gamers, who value faster response times, may prefer the shorter travel distance provided by the WS Morandi. However, for those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the NovelKeys Cream with its longer travel distance may be the preferred choice. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, allowing users to choose the option that best suits their preferences.
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 Morandi comes in at $3.90 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 linear switch provides a low-pitched and resonant experience. The low-pitched sound profile offers a bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the resonant nature of the switch creates a clean and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch delivers a low-pitched, subdued, and thocky sound. The low-pitched sound profile provides a bass-heavy and mellow tone similar to the NovelKeys Cream, while the subdued characteristic dampens the sound, offering a more subtle sound signature. Additionally, the thocky attribute produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound reminiscent of a soft "knock" when pressed and released. It is important to note that the actual sound produced also depends on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the NovelKeys Cream and the WS Morandi switches offer a buttery typing experience. A buttery switch implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The WS Morandi switches also have the additional descriptor of being creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. This creaminess can stem from factory-applied lubricant or specific materials used in the switch, resulting in a silky sensation while typing. Furthermore, the WS Morandi switches are described as silky, which means they enhance the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys. These qualities ensure a premium typing experience for both options.
In conclusion, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch offer different but equally desirable subjective qualities. In terms of sound, the NovelKeys Cream provides a low-pitched and resonant profile, while the WS Morandi offers a low-pitched, subdued, and thocky experience. Both switches deliver a pleasant auditory experience with unique nuances. In terms of feel, both switches provide a buttery typing experience, ensuring a smooth and fluid keystroke. The WS Morandi switches, additionally, offer a creamy and silky sensation, enhancing the overall smoothness and effortless typing feel. Overall, while the switches may have slight differences in sound and feel, they provide similar high-quality experiences, making them excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a deep sound profile, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches would be a great choice for you. These switches provide a heftier typing experience and offer a low-pitched and resonant sound profile. On the other hand, if you prioritize visual aesthetics and are seeking an ultra-smooth linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches are the way to go. These switches feature a unique dry, airy, and wispy smoothness, enhanced RGB visuals, and a slightly more muted, subdued, and thocky sound profile. Additionally, both switches offer a buttery typing experience, ensuring seamless and effortless keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches depends on your specific preferences, whether it be heavy linear typing with a deep sound or a visually stunning and smooth typing experience.