TTC Gold Pink vs. Keygeek Keylin
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Keygeek Keylin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Pink and the Keygeek Keylin stand out as two exceptional options for enthusiasts seeking a linear typing experience, albeit with distinctly different characteristics. The Gold Pink is engineered with a lightweight actuation force of just 37g, making it one of the most effortless switches on the market, ideal for users who thrive on fast-paced typing and gaming. Its vibrant clacky sound provides a unique feedback that enhances the overall experience, offering what many describe as a light and lively feel, categorized as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished.' On the other hand, the Keygeek Keylin brings a unique charm with its premium typing feel, crafted from new molds that optimize smoothness and rich acoustics. This switch caters to those who value a refined, smooth experience with less emphasis on sound feedback. While both switches are designed for linear action, the Gold Pink prioritizes a fast and responsive feel, whereas the Keylin focuses on delivering a premium tactile 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
37g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Pink and the Keygeek Keylin employ different materials for their top housings, which significantly influences their audible and tactile feedback during use. The Gold Pink utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffer structure, which enhances sound clarity and resonance. Moreover, the translucency of the polycarbonate also complements RGB lighting setups, allowing for a visually striking effect. In contrast, the Keylin opts for a nylon top housing. Nylon is recognized for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that contrasts with the Gold Pink's crispness. Consequently, while the two switches may be similar in function, their top housing materials yield distinct auditory experiences.
In terms of bottom housing, both the TTC Gold Pink and Keygeek Keylin employ nylon. This commonality creates a uniformity in the typing experience regarding the deeper and rounder sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound, thus influencing the key's bottom-out feel and sound. Given that the bottom housing greatly affects the perceived qualities when a key is fully pressed, both switches will provide a deliberate tactile response that echoes the characteristics of nylon. Therefore, despite the differing materials in the top housings, when it comes to the bottom housings, users can expect a similar depth in sound and feel while typing or gaming.
Overall, the contrasting materials in the top housings of the TTC Gold Pink and Keygeek Keylin lead to distinct auditory profiles, while the matching nylon bottoms create a cohesive experience in terms of sound and feedback. The Gold Pink's polycarbonate top contributes to a more crisp and resonant experience, making it ideal for users who prefer a sharper keystroke response, especially in RGB settings. On the other hand, the Keylin's nylon top lends itself to a warmer and more muted sound, appealing to users who seek a more subdued typing experience. Ultimately, while the two products differ in their upper housing materials, the consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that both keyboards will deliver a satisfying and rich sound profile on the lower end.
Weight
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch both offer a light typing experience, but they exhibit slight differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Pink has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Keylin requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that, while both switches are relatively light and suitable for prolonged usage, the Keylin switch is marginally heavier, offering a more substantial feel during use. For users who prefer lighter options for comfortable extended sessions, the Gold Pink would be a better choice, whereas those who might enjoy a slightly firmer push might lean towards the Keylin. Despite these differences, both switches provide similar outcomes in terms of typability, with the Gold Pink being the lighter option overall.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, the differences are quite notable. The Gold Pink has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is aligned with the traditional travel distance preferred by many typists and gamers alike, providing a satisfying depth when key presses are executed. In contrast, the Keylin has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, appealing to those who favor quicker response times and a more rapid actuation. Ultimately, the Gold Pink switch's 4 mm distance allows for a more deliberate and substantial key press, while the Keylin’s 3.6 mm distance caters to enthusiasts who appreciate a snappier feel. Therefore, users who prefer a more responsive experience may opt for the Keylin, while those who enjoy a deeper key press may lean towards the Gold Pink.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch offers a distinctive clacky sound that adds a lively character to the typing experience. This is particularly appealing for users who appreciate auditory feedback, making it a stimulating choice for both typing and gaming. In comparison, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch is noted for its rich acoustics, which suggest a more refined sound profile. However, specific descriptions of the Keylin's sound characteristics are not detailed, leaving room for exploration based on individual setups. It's important to remember that sound is inherently influenced by the keyboard's design and the choice of keycaps, so personal preference and context will greatly impact the overall sound experience.
When discussing feel, the Gold Pink switch is characterized by descriptors such as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. These qualities indicate that the switch provides a smooth, light typing experience that minimizes strain during extended use while maintaining a gentle resistance for better control. The buttery sensation implies fluid keystrokes, allowing for an effortless interaction. This makes the Gold Pink particularly appealing for individuals who engage in rapid typing or gaming. On the other hand, while the Keylin linear switch promises an exceptional smoothness in its feel, further details on its tactile characteristics are unknown. However, it is safe to assume that those who appreciate a premium typing experience will find the Keylin to deliver comfort similar to that of the Gold Pink, albeit potentially with its own unique attributes.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Pink and Keygeek Keylin linear switches cater to users who seek a favorable typing experience, but they do so with distinct sounds and potentially different tactile sensations. The Gold Pink stands out with its lively, clacky sound and a multifaceted feel that includes buttery smoothness and a feathery lightness, making it ideal for fast-paced environments. Conversely, the Keylin's focus on rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness aligns it with a premium touch, though the specifics of its feel remain undisclosed. Ultimately, each switch offers its own interpretation of comfort and auditory pleasure, and selecting between them will largely depend on personal preferences and intended use.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, your personal preferences and usage scenarios should guide your choice. If you thrive in fast-paced environments—be it rapid typing sessions or gaming—where every keystroke counts, the Gold Pink switches, with their lower actuation force of 37 grams, will likely cater to your needs with their light, feathery touch and satisfying feedback. This switch is particularly appealing for those who favor a lively and responsive typing experience without much exertion, making it great for long hours of use without strain. On the other hand, if you're looking for a premium typing experience characterized by refined acoustics and smoothness, the Keylin linear switches, featuring a slightly heavier bottom out force of 48 grams, would be your best bet. Their polished feel adds a level of sophistication that enhances the overall experience, ideal for users who appreciate a smoother keystroke and a more deliberate typing style. So, consider your typing habits and environments carefully: go for the Gold Pink if you value lightness and responsiveness and opt for the Keylin if you desire smoothness and a bit more heft in your keystrokes.