Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your typing style and preferences, two options that stand out are the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear. The NovelKeys Cream is best known for its heftier linear typing experience and deep sound profile, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a more textured and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear by Wuque offers an exceptional office and work experience with its ingeniously designed stem railings and discreet cutouts that reduce switch noise. These switches provide unparalleled responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out, all without the use of silicone dampeners. This unique design ensures a seamless blend of tranquility and precision. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches have distinct characteristics that contribute to their sound profiles. The Cream switch features a POM top and bottom housing, which creates a unique and pleasing sound. This sound profile is deeper and more muted, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, producing a rounder and duller sound profile.
While both switches have different top and bottom housing materials, they share similarities in their sound profiles. The POM top housing of the Cream switch and the nylon top housing of the WS Silent Linear both contribute to a deeper and fuller sound. They enhance the typing experience by creating a distinct sound when the keys are released. However, the Cream switch's POM bottom housing, along with the WS Silent Linear's nylon bottom housing, influences the bottom-out sound and feel. These housing materials contribute to the overall tactile experience when the keys are pressed down.
In terms of overall sound and feel, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch with its POM housing materials offers a relatively more muted and unique sound profile. It provides a deeper typing experience with a pleasing sound when pressing down or releasing keys. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch with its nylon housing materials produces a fuller and rounded sound. The nylon material absorbs more sound, creating a duller sound profile that some users may prefer. Overall, both switches offer distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences due to their different housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, there are noticeable similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the NovelKeys Cream is lighter with an actuation force of 55 grams, while the WS Silent Linear's actuation force is unknown. As for the bottom out force, the NovelKeys Cream is also heavier with 70 grams, whereas the WS Silent Linear requires 63.5 grams for bottoming out.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the NovelKeys Cream would be a suitable choice as its actuation force allows for longer periods of comfortable typing. This makes it ideal for those who bring their keyboard to work or engage in prolonged gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial and forceful typing feel may opt for the WS Silent Linear, as its bottom out force is slightly heavier.
While there is a difference in actuation force and bottom out force between the two switches, they both fall within the medium-heavy range. Therefore, those seeking a similar typing experience can expect comparable results from either switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two would depend on personal preference and the desired level of typing resistance.
Travel distance
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a traditional travel distance. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Gamers in particular tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the WS Silent Linear would be a better choice. However, for those who prefer a deeper and more satisfying key press, the NovelKeys Cream with its longer travel distance would be the more suitable option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference and the 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 Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear comes in at $4.20 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
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch is best known for its heftier linear typing experience. When typing on these switches, users can expect a fairly deep sound profile that is deeper than the average switch, but not overly so. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch is designed to elevate the office and work experience by reducing switch noise and providing unparalleled responsiveness. These switches feature ingeniously designed stem railings with discreet cutouts, offering a distinct typing experience that is devoid of the usual cushioned sensation. In terms of sound, the NovelKeys Cream has a low-pitched and resonant sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and immersive auditory experience. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear has a neutral, muted, and subdued sound profile, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. The WS Silent Linear also offers a more subtle sound signature.
In terms of feel, the NovelKeys Cream is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. These switches offer a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear provides a mild mechanical keyboard switch experience, offering a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The sound and feel of the WS Silent Linear will be approachable to most, as its qualities stand in a safe middle-ground zone.
In conclusion, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream switches provide a heftier linear typing experience with a deep sound profile and a buttery, invigorating feel. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches reduce switch noise while delivering a more neutral, muted, and subdued sound profile along with a mild typing experience. It's important to consider personal preferences when choosing between these switches as they provide distinct typing experiences. However, it is worth noting that the sound of the switches may also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Conclusion
All in all, when it comes to choosing between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences and specific needs. If you prioritize a heftier linear typing experience with a deep sound profile, the NovelKeys Cream switch would be a suitable choice. Its low-pitched and resonant sound profile provides a bass-heavy and immersive auditory experience. Additionally, the buttery and invigorating feel of the Cream switch offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback.
On the other hand, if you value a quieter and more subdued typing experience, the WS Silent Linear switch by Wuque Studio would be a better option. Its neutral sound profile, combined with the muted and subdued characteristics, minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. The WS Silent Linear switch also offers a mild typing experience, making it approachable to most users.
Consider your environment and personal preferences when making this decision. If you work in a quiet office setting where noise reduction is crucial, the WS Silent Linear switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a deeper and more immersive typing experience, the NovelKeys Cream switch may be the better fit.
In the end, both switches have their unique qualities and appeal to different individuals. It's important to assess your priorities in terms of sound and feel to determine which switch aligns best with your preferences.
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