Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch offer unique typing experiences. The NovelKeys Cream is renowned for its heftier linear typing experience, providing a deep sound profile that is both textured and invigorating. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown switch doesn't have a specific standout feature but is known for its tactile feedback. While the NovelKeys Cream offers a smooth and consistent typing experience, the Crystal Brown switch provides a tactile bump for keypress feedback. Both switches have their own advantages depending on personal preference; the Cream switch for those who prefer a linear typing experience, and the Crystal Brown switch for those who enjoy tactile feedback. 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
45g
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
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Crystal Brown, it is clear that both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their top and bottom housing materials. The NovelKeys Cream features a POM top and bottom housing, creating a deep and relatively muted sound profile. In contrast, the Crystal Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound with a fuller and deeper tone. While the Cream's POM housing provides a more consistent sound profile, the Crystal Brown's combination of polycarbonate and nylon offers a more dynamic and varied typing experience.
Aesthetically, the housing materials of the two switches also differ significantly. The Crystal Brown's polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. In comparison, the NovelKeys Cream's POM top housing is solid and opaque, giving a more traditional appearance. Additionally, the Crystal Brown's nylon bottom housing is a classic choice that offers a softer and more absorbent material compared to the Cream's POM bottom housing, resulting in a quieter and rounder sound profile during typing.
Overall, while both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials, the NovelKeys Cream and Outemu Crystal Brown cater to different preferences in sound and aesthetics. The Cream's POM housing provides a consistent and pleasing typing experience, while the Crystal Brown's combination of polycarbonate and nylon offers a sharper and fuller sound with added visual appeal. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile, typing feel, and aesthetic design.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch differ in terms of weight. The NovelKeys Cream has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Crystal Brown offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions, the Crystal Brown would be the preferred choice. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the NovelKeys Cream would be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference based on desired actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is the same at 4mm for both switches. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience a consistent travel distance from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a similar tactile experience in terms of travel distance, allowing for a smooth and consistent typing or gaming experience. Overall, whether you choose the NovelKeys Cream or the Outemu Crystal Brown switch, you can expect to have a similar travel distance, resulting in comparable results for your keyboarding needs.
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 Outemu Crystal Brown comes in at $3.10 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 offers a low-pitched and resonant sound profile, providing a deep and clean auditory experience that is bass-heavy and immersive. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is currently unavailable. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the NovelKeys Cream linear switch is described as buttery and invigorating, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force. The switch also provides a textured sensation, which some users may prefer for its unique feel. Conversely, details on the tactile sensation of the Outemu Crystal Brown switch are not provided at this time.
Taking into account the available information, it can be concluded that the NovelKeys Cream linear switch is characterized by a deep and resonant sound profile, as well as a buttery and invigorating typing feel. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch are unknown, users can expect a similar typing experience to the NovelKeys Cream if both switches offer comparable attributes. Overall, when choosing between these two switches, it is essential to consider personal preferences for sound, feel, and other factors like actuation force and keycap compatibility to determine the best option for your typing needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a deep sound profile, the NovelKeys Cream switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a tactile typing experience, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing preferences and whether you prioritize a linear or tactile feel in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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