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The Most Popular Creamy Keyboard: A Comprehensive Guide
When it comes to custom mechanical keyboards, enthusiasts often look for unique designs and features that make them stand out. One keyboard style that has been gaining significant attention within the community is the 'creamy' keyboard—a term often associated with smooth typing experiences and aesthetic appeal, usually involving pastel or neutral color schemes. In this post, we will explore what makes a keyboard popular in this niche category, and try to identify some key models that might hold the title of the most popular creamy keyboard.
Understanding ‘Creamy’ in Keyboard Terminology
The term 'creamy' in the context of mechanical keyboards generally refers to keyboards that offer a smooth and consistent typing experience, often distinguished by their switch types, keycap material, and overall aesthetics. The sensory experience of typing on such keyboards should feel seamless and uninterrupted—much like the sensation of smoothly spreading cream. These keyboards usually feature switches that provide a buttery smooth keypress with a soft, tactile bump or none at all.
Features That Make a Keyboard ‘Creamy’
- Switch Type: Creamy keyboards often use linear switches, such as the popular Cherry MX Reds, Gateron Yellows, or custom switches like the Tealios and Cream (NovelKeys). Linear switches without a tactile bump help reinforce the smooth sensation.
- Lubing: Enthusiasts often manually lube their switches to reduce friction, enhancing the smooth, 'creamy' typing feel that these keyboards are known for.
- Stabilizers: Modifications like clipping, lubing, and band-aid modding of stabilizers ensure keys like the space bar and larger keys are also silky smooth.
- Keycaps: Aesthetic is key when it comes to creamy keyboards. PBT keycaps are popular for their durability and the way they hold up the dye-sublimation printing of intricate pastel-colored designs.
- Creamy Sound Profile: The acoustic properties of a keyboard are a crucial aspect. Enthusiasts often seek keyboards that offer a deep and quiet thock sound.
Popular Creamy Keyboards
While there are countless custom options available, several keyboards have earned recognition in the community due to their 'creamy' characteristics. Let's delve into some models that are frequently mentioned:
1. The Keychron K6
The Keychron K6 is frequently highlighted for its accessible entry into the mechanical keyboard realm without sacrificing build quality or features. Although not inherently creamy, the K6 becomes so with some mods and careful selection of keycaps and switches. Many users customize their K6 with Gateron Milk switches, known for their smooth operation, paired with creamy PBT keycaps.
2. NovelKeys NK65—Entry Edition
The NovelKeys NK65 offers a great base for creating a creamy keyboard experience. The feature that adds to its popularity is the hot-swappable PCB that allows keyboard aficionados to easily try out different switches without soldering, making it ripe for customization. Many users opt for the NovelKeys Cream switches, which emit a rich, smooth tap with their full-POM (polyoxymethylene) construction and ergonomic profile.
3. Varmilo VA87M
Known for its outstanding build quality and thematic artistry in keycap design, Varmilo’s VA87M series often comes with aesthetically pleasing pastel colorways that inherently give off a creamy vibe. The keyboard can be customized with Varmilo's EC switches, which can be further enhanced with lubrication for an even smoother experience.
4. Ducky One 2 Mini
For those looking for a compact form factor without compromising on functionality and feel, the Ducky One 2 Mini stands out. It’s a fan favorite for 60% keyboard enthusiasts. Although it requires mods to achieve full creaminess, Ducky's keycaps are notably high-quality, and with the right linear switches and lube, it becomes a dependable creamy keyboard setup.
Building the Ultimate Creamy Keyboard
For those inclined towards DIY experiences, building a custom mechanical keyboard can be an immensely satisfying journey. Start from scratch with a custom kit like the TOFU-series by KBDfans—an extremely popular choice due to its affordability and customizability. Pair it with switches like the Gazzew Boba U4 Silent and opt for lubed linear switches or tactile switches with a relatively lighter actuation force.
Customization options also include adding foam dampeners to the case or under the PCB to refine the sound profile of the keyboard, giving it that sought-after creamy timbre. Don't forget premium PBT keycaps in soft pastel colors, as these will further contribute to the creamy aesthetic. With these components, hobbyists can tailor every aspect of the keyboard to suit their preferences, achieving the ultimate creamy feel and sound.
Final Thoughts
While the keyboards mentioned above are just a few of the popular creamy keyboards that enthusiasts talk about, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. The 'best' creamy keyboard is largely subjective and contingent upon personal taste and the level of customization one is willing to explore.
The journey to designing or finding the perfect creamy keyboard is deeply personal and is as much about the process as the final product. Whether buying ready-made or customizing from scratch, the creamy keyboard is a delightful indulgence that elevates the typing experience, making every keystroke a pleasure.
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