HMX Deep Navy vs. Keygeek Keylin
An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the Keygeek Keylin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Deep Navy and Keygeek Keylin stand out as two exceptional linear options, each offering a unique typing experience for enthusiasts and casual users alike. The Deep Navy switches are crafted from full nylon, providing a robust build that enhances their sharp and resonant sound profile, while the silky smoothness of the Ly stem ensures a seamless keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Keylin switches utilize new molds from Keygeek, resulting in a premium typing feel characterized by rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness, elevating the overall tactile satisfaction. Your choice between these two switches may depend on your preference for sound signature versus acoustic richness, thereby influencing your typing experience. 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
40g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Deep Navy and Keygeek Keylin are remarkably similar, as both models utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. Nylon is recognized as a classic switch housing material due to its unique characteristics, which contribute to an overall deeper and fuller sound profile corresponding to the typing experience. This is achieved because nylon, being a softer plastic, effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory output compared to harder plastics. Since both the HMX Deep Navy and Keylin are made from the same material, it is expected that users will experience a similarly rich acoustic performance and tactile feedback when typing on these switches.
Both the Deep Navy and Keylin feature nylon for their bottom housing as well, further solidifying the uniform auditory experience across both models. The bottom housing plays a crucial role in how the switch feels and sounds during the bottom-out phase when a key is pressed down fully. With nylon's sound-dampening properties, it helps in creating a pleasant and soft keystroke that minimizes harsh noises. Therefore, regardless of the specific brand, users will find that the intrinsic qualities of nylon provide a consistent performance marked by sound absorption and tactile solidity.
Despite the apparent similarities in material composition, the interaction of each housing with the overall switch characteristics ultimately depends on the specific design choices made by HMX and Keygeek. The balance of sound produced and the sensation felt when pressing the keys is influenced not only by the switch housing materials but also by the switch structure and mechanics within. Thus, while the results may appear similar at the surface level due to the use of nylon, the unique engineering behind each switch could still lead to nuances in performance, allowing enthusiasts to appreciate the subtleties that differentiate the typing experience of the HMX Deep Navy and Keygeek Keylin.
Weight
The HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch both feature relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. The Deep Navy has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Keylin boasts a slightly lighter actuation force of 38 grams with a bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that the Keylin switch is the lighter option when comparing actuation forces, but the Deep Navy has a lighter bottom out force. While both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, those who prefer a stronger push feel may lean towards the Keylin due to its marginally higher bottom out force. Ultimately, users of either switch will find a responsive feel, but the differences in actuation and bottom out forces provide distinct tactile experiences, catering to personal typing preferences.
Travel distance
The HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, indicating that their key presses engage and respond in the same depth range. This identical travel distance means users can expect a similar feel and actuation experience when pressing down on either switch, providing consistency in typing or gaming scenarios. Since both switches operate within the same parameters, individuals who prefer the characteristics of one switch over the other will find their overall performance and key engagement comparable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Deep Navy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Deep Navy for $2.79.
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 HMX Deep Navy linear switches are renowned for their rich, sharp sound profile, which is enhanced by their full nylon construction. This design choice allows for a satisfying auditory experience with every keystroke, contributing to an immersive typing atmosphere. In contrast, the Keygeek Keylin linear switches also pride themselves on delivering a premium auditory experience, featuring rich acoustics derived from their new mold design. While both switches aim to provide a pleasant sound experience, the distinct characteristics of their construction may lead to slight variations in resonance and tone, which can be further influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Deep Navy switch is celebrated for its silky smoothness during operation, attributed to the Ly stem, which provides a fluid motion that enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Keylin switch offers exceptional smoothness as well, making it a strong contender for those seeking a seamless typing experience. Although both switches prioritize a smooth feel, their unique designs may result in subtle differences in actuation force and tactile feedback, catering to personal preferences among users.
In conclusion, both the HMX Deep Navy and Keygeek Keylin linear switches have their own strengths in terms of sound and feel. The Deep Navy excels with its rich, sharp acoustics and silky smooth keystrokes, whereas the Keylin stands out with its premium auditory experience and exceptional smoothness, thanks to innovative mold designs. While you'll find similarities in their overall goals to provide a satisfying typing experience, the nuances in sound and feel may lead you to prefer one over the other depending on your specific desires and style of typing.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, you should consider both the characteristics of each switch and your personal preferences. If you value a lighter actuation force with a notable sound profile, the Deep Navy is an excellent choice. Its 45 grams of bottom-out force provides an effortless typing experience, complemented by a rich and sharp sound that adds character to your keystrokes. This makes it well-suited for long typing sessions or when you're looking for an immersive tactile experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a focus on premium feel and acoustics, the Keylin might be more to your liking. With a bottom-out force of 48 grams, it offers a satisfying resistance while delivering exceptional smoothness and rich acoustics due to its new molds from Keygeek. As such, the Keylin is ideal if you want a switch that combines a plush sound with robust feel. Ultimately, both switches provide distinct experiences, so your choice should align with whether you prioritize lightweight ease and auditory engagement or a slightly firmer, smoother typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
