Durock Black Lotus vs. Keygeek Keylin
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Keygeek Keylin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Durock Black Lotus and the Keygeek Keylin can significantly influence your typing experience, especially for enthusiasts who prioritize smoothness and precision. The Durock Black Lotus stands out with its silky smooth feel and reduced wobble, making it ideal for those who seek a refined and tactile typing experience. Its 55g actuation weight strikes a balance between comfort and responsiveness, while the innovative light column allows for customizable in-switch lighting. In contrast, the Keygeek Keylin offers a premium typing sensation through its newly molded design, delivering rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness, perfect for users who appreciate auditory feedback alongside tactile performance. While both switches excel in providing a linear feel, they cater to slightly different preferences in terms of sound and customization. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the Keygeek Keylin, it is evident that both share a similar bottom housing material, as both utilize nylon. Nylon is celebrated for its softer qualities, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This characteristic allows for better sound absorption, minimizing harshness and resulting in a more rounded acoustic output. Thus, regardless of the differences in their top housing materials, users can expect similar auditory experiences stemming from the nylon bottom housing in both switches.
However, it is the top housing where the primary contrast lies, as the Durock Black Lotus incorporates a modified blend of polycarbonate (PC) and engineering-grade polyether (UPE), while the Keygeek Keylin features a traditional nylon top housing. The PC & UPE blend of the Black Lotus not only enhances the tactile feel but also adds a premium touch, offering a distinct typing experience compared to the more classic nylon of the Keylin. This difference can influence the overall feedback felt during keystrokes; while the nylon in both cases serves to provide a softer response, the UPE blend in the Black Lotus might yield a crisper sound upon bottoming out due to its firmer characteristics.
Ultimately, while both switches leverage nylon for their bottom housings, the divergence in their top housing materials introduces unique traits to their performance. The Durock Black Lotus, with its modified PC & UPE blend top, may deliver a snappier and more dynamic feel, complementing the deep sound provided by the nylon bottom. In contrast, the Keylin’s all-nylon construction fosters a consistent and classic performance, ensuring a cohesive acoustic experience. Therefore, while users may enjoy similar auditory qualities due to the nylon bottom in both models, the tactile and sound profiles may significantly differ based on the materials used in the respective top housings.
Weight
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch present distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences among typists and gamers. The Black Lotus boasts a medium-heavy actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a stronger push that some users may appreciate for a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Keylin switch is on the lighter side, featuring an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it more suitable for those who desire a less strenuous typing experience, especially during prolonged use. Therefore, if you prefer a lighter switch that allows for quicker actuation and less fatigue, the Keylin would be the better choice, while the Black Lotus is ideal for users who enjoy a firmer response when typing. Overall, the differences highlight how weight plays a crucial role in user experience, with the Black Lotus being heavier and the Keylin offering a lighter touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Black Lotus and the Keygeek Keylin linear switches, it is clear that the Black Lotus offers a longer travel distance of 4 mm, whereas the Keylin features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The difference of 0.4 mm may seem subtle, but it can significantly impact the typing experience. For those who enjoy a deeper feel while typing, the Black Lotus’s 4 mm travel distance will provide a more substantial and satisfying sensation. In contrast, the Keylin’s 3.6 mm travel distance caters to users who prefer quicker key presses, making it a better choice for gamers or those who thrive on fast response times. Thus, if you're looking for a more robust keypress feel, the Durock Black Lotus is the preferable option, while the Keygeek Keylin is ideal for users seeking speed and efficiency in their keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Black Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Black Lotus for $4.57.
The Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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 Durock Black Lotus linear switch produces a sound profile that is subdued and focused, offering a quiet typing experience ideal for both office environments and home use. This switch's sound quality complements the overall smoothness, ensuring that the acoustic feedback does not disrupt the typing flow. Meanwhile, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch is characterized by rich acoustics that add a layer of auditory depth to each keystroke. The sound of the Keylin may be enhanced by the premium materials and molds utilized in its construction, but it remains to be seen how it compares directly with the Black Lotus in specific sound characteristics since more detail is needed.
Feel-wise, the Black Lotus excels with a range of descriptors that emphasize an exceptionally smooth and pleasant typing experience. Terms like "silky," "buttery," and "polished" speak to its refined action and a gentle keystroke that minimizes resistance, appealing to those who appreciate a high level of control and comfort while typing. The Keylin, while described as delivering exceptional smoothness, lacks further specifications on its tactile sensations, which makes it difficult to draw direct comparisons in feel. However, both switches are designed to provide premium typing experiences, so we can reasonably expect that the Keylin will match or complement the smoothness of the Black Lotus in its own unique way.
In conclusion, both the Durock Black Lotus and the Keygeek Keylin linear switches are crafted to deliver high-quality performance and comfort, with the Black Lotus offering a notably silky and polished typing experience, while the Keylin brings rich acoustics into play. Although their sound profiles differ, both switches emphasize smoothness, suggesting that either choice will likely lead to a satisfying typing experience, tailored to individual preferences. For newcomers, selecting between these options may come down to personal preferences surrounding sound and the specific nuances in tactile feedback that one might find appealing.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Durock Black Lotus and the Keygeek Keylin linear switches, it’s essential to consider your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you seek a typing experience punctuated by a medium-heavy force that supports a silky, polished feel, the Black Lotus will likely suit you well. Its 63.5g bottom-out force is ideal for those who prefer a more deliberate keystroke for productivity or gaming, where precision and control are paramount. Its unique in-switch lighting adds an aesthetic flair, making it an excellent choice for customized builds. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter touch with effortless keystrokes, the Keylin’s 48g bottom-out force may align better with your needs. This switch is perfect for long typing sessions or a more casual gaming experience, as its smoothness and rich acoustics can enhance comfort over time. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a heavier, more tactile press or prefer the lighter, fluid dynamics of a fast-paced typing environment.
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