Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile. The Cream switches are known for their heftier linear typing experience and deep sound profile. They offer a buttery and low-pitched feel, which can be both textured and resonant. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switches by Wuque strike a perfect balance between tactility and noise reduction. Crafted with precision, these switches provide a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return, all while maintaining an impressively silent profile. They are distinguished from conventional silent switches by foregoing silicone dampeners, resulting in a typing experience devoid of the usual padded feel. The WS Silent Tactile switches are categorized as accented, invigorating, neutral, mild, and muted. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your needs.
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 Tactile differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The NovelKeys Cream features a POM top and bottom housing, while the WS Silent Tactile utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing. The POM housing of the NovelKeys Cream creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the nylon housing of the WS Silent Tactile elicits a fuller and rounder sound, thanks to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. Therefore, users can expect a distinct difference in the sound produced by these two switches.
While the housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile differ, they share similarities in terms of creating a deeper sound profile. Both the POM top and bottom housing of the NovelKeys Cream and the nylon top and bottom housing of the WS Silent Tactile contribute to a richer sound experience. However, the specific characteristics of each material result in slightly different sound qualities. The POM housing of the NovelKeys Cream is said to be more muted, while the nylon housing of the WS Silent Tactile creates a duller sound. Despite these distinctions, users seeking a switch that produces a deeper tone will find satisfaction in either of these options.
It is important to note that the housing materials of a switch play a significant role in the sound and feel experienced when typing. In the case of these switches, the bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, if the top and bottom housing materials differ, the overall sound and feel of the switch will be a combination of these two materials. This means that users can expect a nuanced typing experience that combines the qualities of both the top and bottom housing materials in these switches.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch have notable differences. The NovelKeys Cream has an actuation force of 55 grams, providing a relatively lighter touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the WS Silent Tactile is unavailable, making it difficult to compare with the Cream switch in terms of actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the WS Silent Tactile is 63.5 grams, slightly lighter than the Cream switch's bottom out force of 70 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter switch, the NovelKeys Cream would be a suitable choice as it allows for longer periods of typing without causing fatigue. This lighter actuation force is particularly beneficial for individuals using the keyboard extensively at work or during extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, some users may desire a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. In this case, the WS Silent Tactile's slightly lighter bottom out force could be a favorable option.
Overall, while the actuation force of the WS Silent Tactile is unknown, the lighter bottom out force suggests that it may provide a comparable typing experience to the NovelKeys Cream switch for those seeking a more substantial keystroke without sacrificing the prolonged typing endurance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the Cream has a longer travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the WS Silent Tactile has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Cream falls into the more traditional range for travel distance, offering a deeper key press feel, while the WS Silent Tactile is on the shallower side. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the WS Silent Tactile, as it allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the NovelKeys Cream with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal 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 Tactile 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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches have a low-pitched and resonant profile. These switches offer a deeper sound than the average switch, giving it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. As for the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches, they have a neutral and muted sound. These switches produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches, making them suitable for environments where noise reduction is desired. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, while the NovelKeys Cream switches have a deeper sound profile, the WS Silent Tactile switches prioritize noise reduction and provide a more muted typing experience. Therefore, if you're looking for a similar level of noise reduction in the Cream switches, you'll need to consider using additional dampening materials.
In terms of feel, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches are described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. These switches offer a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, they are also noted to have a textured feel, meaning they may exhibit noticeable friction when pressed. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches are described as accented and invigorating. They offer a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, providing a prominent amount of feedback without being scratchy. Like the Cream switches, the WS Silent Tactile switches also offer an invigorating feel with moderate to firm actuation force, creating a snappy and reactive typing experience. Moreover, the WS Silent Tactile switches are considered mild, meaning they offer a more gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone.
Taking all the available information into account, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches excel in providing a heftier linear typing experience with a deep sound profile and a buttery, textured feel. They offer pronounced feedback, moderate actuation force, and a smooth keystroke, creating an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches strike a balance between medium tactility and noise reduction. They provide a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return without compromising on tranquility. These switches offer a more muted sound and a tactile typing experience that is accented yet not overwhelming. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences and requirements. If a quieter and more tactile typing experience is desired, the WS Silent Tactile switches would be a suitable choice. However, if a heavier linear switch with a deeper sound and a textured feel is preferred, the NovelKeys Cream switches would be the better option.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and typing environment.
If you prioritize a heftier linear typing experience with a deep sound profile, then the NovelKeys Cream is the switch for you. The low-pitched and resonant sound profile of the Cream switch offers a bass-heavy and mellow tone, providing an immersive auditory experience.
On the other hand, if you value a medium level of tactility and noise reduction, especially for office or work environments, the WS Silent Tactile is an excellent choice. These switches strike a delicate balance between tactility and noise reduction, minimizing switch sound while delivering a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return. With a neutral and muted sound profile, these switches offer a softer and quieter typing experience.
In terms of feel, the NovelKeys Cream provides a buttery and invigorating typing sensation. The switches offer a smooth, seamless, and uniform keystroke experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switches are accented, invigorating, and mild, offering a medium amount of tactility that is not overwhelming, providing pronounced feedback and a snappy feel.
To summarize, if you prefer a heftier linear typing experience with a deeper sound profile, go for the NovelKeys Cream. If you prioritize a medium level of tactility, noise reduction, and a softer typing experience, the WS Silent Tactile would be the ideal choice. Consider your sound and feel preferences, as well as your typing environment, when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer their unique advantages, allowing you to tailor your keyboard experience to your liking.
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