Gateron Glory Yellow vs. Keygeek Keylin
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Keygeek Keylin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Glory Yellow and Keygeek Keylin are two linear options that offer distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Glory Yellow switch is celebrated for its heavier actuation, providing a smooth keystroke and a satisfying travel distance, which many enthusiasts find enhances their typing or gaming performance. In contrast, the Keygeek Keylin sets itself apart with its use of innovative molds, delivering a premium typing experience characterized by rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize auditory feedback alongside tactile comfort. Each switch has its unique advantages, whether you seek the satisfying resistance of the Glory Yellow or the refined, premium feel of the Keylin. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Glory Yellow and Keygeek Keylin switches are notably similar, both featuring nylon for the top and bottom housings. This commonality in material is essential in shaping the acoustic profile of these switches. The use of nylon has established itself as a classic choice in mechanical keyboards due to its softer plastic characteristics. As a result, both the Glory Yellow and Keylin switches deliver a deeper, fuller sound while typing, largely due to nylon's ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. This absorption leads to a dulled and round sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience by minimizing sharp or harsh noises.
Even with identical housing materials, the distinct qualities of the Glory Yellow and Keylin switches can subtly differ. While the nylon composition ensured that both switches produced a similar sound profile, the design and internal components of each switch can influence the tactile feedback when pressed. The bottom housing of each switch plays a crucial role in the feel and sound at bottom-out, with factors like construction and weight potentially leading to variances. Additionally, the impact of the top housing primarily affects the release sound when letting go of keys, which could be subtly distinct between the two models despite their shared material.
Ultimately, because both the Gateron Glory Yellow and Keygeek Keylin use nylon for both top and bottom housings, you can expect comparable typing acoustics and sound profiles. Users looking for a deeper, fuller auditory experience will appreciate the similarity these switches share. However, it is critical to remember that even small variations in the design or assembly of each switch can result in differences in tactile feedback and sound nuances, leading to a unique typing experience while still benefiting from the familiar warmth provided by nylon material.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Glory Yellow boasts an actuation force of 50 grams, whereas the Keylin is significantly lighter, with an actuation force of just 38 grams. This means that the Keylin switch is easier to press, making it ideal for users who favor a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Glory Yellow is unknown, while the Keylin has a bottom out force of 48 grams, contributing to a firmer tactile feedback when the key is fully pressed down. This reinforces the Keylin switch's reputation for being lightweight, while the Glory Yellow, with its higher actuation force, could cater to those who prefer a heavier and more substantial typing experience. Overall, users seeking a lighter switch may lean towards the Keylin, while those preferring a stronger push feel might consider the Glory Yellow if they can accommodate the unknown bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch measures at 4 mm, while the Keygeek Keylin linear switch comes in slightly shorter at 3.6 mm. This difference in travel distance affects the overall feel and responsiveness of each switch. The Glory Yellow, with its longer 4 mm travel, may appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes, providing a satisfying typing experience that some find essential for comfort. On the other hand, the Keylin's 3.6 mm travel distance caters to those who prefer quicker response times, which is often favored by gamers looking to enhance their gaming performance. Thus, if you value a more abrupt and responsive actuation, the Keylin is the better choice, whereas the Glory Yellow will suit those who appreciate a deeper, more traditional keystroke. Overall, the Gateron Glory Yellow is the longer switch, while the Keygeek Keylin is the shorter one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Yellow has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Yellow for $4.19.
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 Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch has not been explicitly described in terms of sound, but being a linear switch, it typically offers a quieter profile compared to tactile or clicky switches. Given its design, users can expect a subdued sound that minimizes noise during typing, making it suitable for office environments or shared spaces. The Keygeek Keylin switch, on the other hand, is noted for its “rich acoustics,” suggesting that while it is also a linear switch, it may offer a slightly more refined sound. This richness could provide a uniquely satisfying auditory feedback that enhances the overall typing experience. However, it’s important to remember that the final sound produced by both switches can vary significantly depending on the keyboard construction and the choice of keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Glory Yellow linear switch is known for its smooth keystroke and a pleasing travel distance, delivering an enjoyable typing experience. This smoothness contributes to an effortless keypress, which many typists find appealing. The Keygeek Keylin switch also emphasizes smoothness, claiming to provide an exceptional typing experience. Since both switches are linear, users will likely experience a similar fluid motion without the tactile bumps that characterize other switch types. This shared quality of smoothness creates a great opportunity for users who favor a streamlined feel as they type, often enhancing both gaming and typing performance.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Glory Yellow and Keygeek Keylin linear switches present compelling options for newcomers to mechanical keyboards. While sound characteristics may vary, with the Glory Yellow being more subdued and the Keylin offering a potentially richer audio experience, both switches promise an enjoyable level of smoothness that enhances the typing journey. If you prioritize a fluid and quiet typing experience, either switch could serve you well, making your choice ultimately dependent on your personal preferences for sound and brand loyalty.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, your choice should reflect your typing preferences and intended usage. If you’re looking for a switch that offers a smooth keystroke with a pleasing travel distance, enabling a more enjoyable typing experience, the Glory Yellow might be your best bet. It's ideal for typing and gaming where you appreciate a lightweight structure, providing ease in rapid key presses without the noticeable resistance of a bottom out force. On the other hand, if you value a more tactile feel with rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness during use, the Keylin switch could be the perfect fit. With a light bottom out force of 48 grams, it’s particularly suitable for users who enjoy typing sessions that require precision and control, making it favorable for productivity tasks and frequent typing. Thus, consider your typing habits, the environments in which you'll use these switches, and what you personally find pleasurable in terms of sound and feel before making your final decision.
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