Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the SP-Star Yanyu 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 SP-Star Yanyu. The Cream switches offer a robust and satisfying linear typing experience with a slightly deeper sound profile compared to other switches. Known for being 'buttery', 'low-pitched', 'textured', 'resonant', and 'invigorating', these switches are ideal for those who prefer a pronounced tactile feel. On the other hand, the Yanyu switches are perfect for individuals seeking a more delicate typing experience, especially during long periods of use. These switches have a crisp sound profile and are categorized as 'neutral', 'mild', 'thocky', 'feathery', 'subtle', and 'polished'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision about which switch best suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the SP-Star Yanyu switches offer distinct characteristics that contribute to their overall sound profile. The NovelKeys Cream features a POM top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. This combination creates a satisfying and unique auditory experience. In contrast, the Yanyu switch incorporates a blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE for both the top and bottom housing. This distinctive blend produces a sound profile that leans towards the brighter side, offering a pleasant but not overly sharp sound upon activation.
Though the housing materials differ between the two switches, they both yield enjoyable auditory outcomes. The NovelKeys Cream's POM top and bottom housing creates a deeper and more muted sound upon actuation, while the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend housing leans towards a brighter sound. Despite these differences, both switches are designed to provide a pleasing and unique sound experience. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality, albeit with variances in tonality.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the housing materials also play a role in influencing the tactile experience. With the NovelKeys Cream, the POM bottom housing contributes to the overall feel during bottom-out, which refers to the sensation when the key is fully pressed. On the other hand, the top housing material, whether it is POM for the Cream or the Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend for the Yanyu, has a greater impact on the sound produced when the key is released. In this aspect, the switches may exhibit some variation in terms of the tactile feedback and sound produced upon key release, but both switches offer satisfying and enjoyable typing experiences.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the SP-Star Yanyu switches influence both the sound and feel of the switches. While the NovelKeys Cream's POM housing results in a deeper and more muted sound profile, the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend offers a brighter tonality. However, regardless of the differences in material, both switches provide a unique and pleasant typing experience. Whether it's the bottom housing's impact on bottom-out feel or the top housing's influence on key release sound, these switches showcase qualities that cater to individual preferences and enhance overall typing enjoyment.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, there are some notable differences. The NovelKeys Cream has an actuation force of 55 grams, providing a medium-heavy feel, while the actuation force of the Yanyu is currently unavailable. In terms of bottom out force, the Cream requires 70 grams of force, which is again medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Yanyu has a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it considerably lighter.
Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as it can greatly impact the typing experience. Some individuals prefer a lighter weight, as it allows them to type for longer periods without causing fatigue. This is particularly advantageous for those who use their keyboards for work or engage in lengthy gaming sessions. However, others prefer a stronger push feel, which provides a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, a switch with a heavier actuation or bottom out force would be more suitable.
In terms of weight, the NovelKeys Cream is on the heavier side, with both its actuation and bottom out forces falling into the medium-heavy range. The Yanyu, on the other hand, has a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams, which provides a softer and more gentle typing experience. Unfortunately, the actuation force for the Yanyu is not currently available, making it difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, it is worth noting that if the actuation force of the Yanyu is similar to or lighter than the NovelKeys Cream, it would result in a similar typing experience in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke.
Travel distance
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar tactile experience when pressing down on a key. They will offer a consistent and reliable response, ensuring that users have a smooth typing or gaming experience. Whether you choose the Kailh NovelKeys Cream or the SP-Star Yanyu, you can expect a comfortable and efficient switch with a travel distance of 4 mm.
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 SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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 switch offers a low-pitched and resonant profile. Its low-pitched characteristic gives it a bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the resonant quality provides a clean and sharp sound profile. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch has a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate pitch and actuation force. Additionally, the Yanyu switch is described as thocky, producing a deep and satisfying sound similar to a soft knock or deep thud. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the NovelKeys Cream switch is often described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This implies a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. It is also mentioned as invigorating, providing pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel during typing. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch has a mild and feathery feel. Its mild characteristic indicates a gentle typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users. The feathery quality means that it requires little exertion to press and offers a light actuation force, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Yanyu switch is also described as having a subtle resistance and a polished finish, providing a light typing feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and SP-Star Yanyu switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The NovelKeys Cream provides a deeper and resonant sound profile, along with a buttery and invigorating feel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch offers a crisp and thocky sound profile, along with a mild, feathery, and polished feel. It's important to consider personal preferences and requirements when choosing between these switches, as both can provide satisfying typing experiences. If a user is looking for a heavier and deeper sound with a buttery feel, they would be more inclined towards the NovelKeys Cream. However, if they prefer a lighter sound with a mild and feathery feel, the SP-Star Yanyu would be a suitable option. In both cases, it is advisable to consider other factors such as keyboard board and keycaps to further tailor the experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch will depend on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a heavier and more pronounced typing experience, the NovelKeys Cream switch with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams is a great option for you. It offers a deeper sound profile, giving a satisfying and immersive auditory experience. Additionally, if you prefer a buttery and invigorating feel with pronounced feedback, the NovelKeys Cream switch will provide you with a smooth and uniform typing sensation.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter and more delicate typing experience or need to type for long periods of time without finger fatigue, the SP-Star Yanyu switch with its light bottom out force of 43 grams is the better choice. It offers a crisp sound profile, providing a gentle and approachable typing experience. If you value a feathery and polished feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel, the Yanyu switch will give you a comfortable and effortless typing sensation.
In summary, if you prioritize a heavier and more pronounced typing experience with a deeper sound profile, choose the NovelKeys Cream switch. If you prefer a lighter and more delicate typing experience with a crisp sound profile, opt for the SP-Star Yanyu switch. Both switches have their unique qualities and cater to different preferences, so make sure to consider your typing needs and select the one that suits you best.
Mentioned in this article
