HMX Hibiscus vs. Keygeek Keylin
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the Keygeek Keylin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Hibiscus and Keygeek Keylin stand out as two compelling options for enthusiasts seeking a linear switch experience. The HMX Hibiscus is celebrated for its ultra-light actuation force, offering a luxuriously smooth typing experience that surpasses 80% of available switches, along with a uniquely clacky and crispy sound profile that adds an enjoyable auditory layer to each keystroke. In contrast, the Keylin switch prioritizes a premium typing experience through the use of new molds from Keygeek, delivering exceptional smoothness paired with rich acoustics that elevate the overall feel of typing. While both switches provide a linear experience suited for those who appreciate a seamless keystroke without tactile bumps, the Hibiscus leans towards a lighter, more responsive touch, while the Keylin focuses on an enriched auditory feedback and premium feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T3
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 HMX Hibiscus and Keygeek Keylin utilize nylon for both their top and bottom housings, which underscores their shared characteristic of producing a rich auditory experience. Nylon is renowned in the keyboard switch community for its softer texture compared to harder plastics, which allows for more sound absorption. This material choice contributes to the deeper and fuller sound profile that users can expect when typing on either of these switches. As a result, both switches create a similar auditory experience where the sound is described as duller and rounder, leading to a more muted and pleasant typing environment.
While both the Hibiscus and Keylin employ nylon for their housings, they provide a consistent experience by integrating this material at both the top and bottom housing levels. This alignment means that the qualities inherent to nylon—sound absorption and softness—are uniformly distributed, enhancing the overall tactile and acoustic performance during use. Thus, both the bottom-out sound and the release noise will exhibit similar characteristics, resulting in a cohesive typing experience regardless of which switch is selected. Each switch should deliver consistent typing feedback, contributing to an enjoyable typing rhythm favored by users who appreciate nuanced sound profiles.
However, it is essential to acknowledge that even if both switches are made from identical materials, variations in design or internal mechanisms can still impact the overall feel and response of the switch. In instances where the housings may vary in their structure while still utilizing nylon, the influence of these designs can differentiate the user experience. The bottom housing significantly affects the bottom-out feel, while the top housing largely dictates the sound during the key release. Therefore, while both the HMX Hibiscus and the Keygeek Keylin share a common nylon composition, nuances in their engineering may result in a subtly different tactile sensation, enhancing the individuality of each switch even within a similar material framework.
Weight
The HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch both offer light typing experiences, but they differ slightly in their actuation forces. The Hibiscus has an actuation force of 42 grams, while the Keylin is slightly lighter with an actuation force of 38 grams. Both switches share the same bottom out force of 48 grams, meaning users will experience a similar sensation when fully depressing the keys. For typists or gamers who favor lighter switches for extended use, the Keylin may provide an edge due to its lower actuation force, making it easier to activate keys over long periods. Conversely, the Hibiscus offers a slightly more substantial feel in the initial actuation, which some users may prefer for a more pronounced typing experience. Overall, while both switches are light and maintain the same bottom out force, the Keylin stands out as the lighter option.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, it is evident that they differ slightly, with the Hibiscus measuring 3.5 mm and the Keylin at 3.6 mm. The Keylin is the longer of the two switches, making it potentially more suitable for users who prefer a more pronounced key press and a deeper feel when typing. Conversely, the Hibiscus offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times and a more immediate actuation. Ultimately, if you prefer a more responsive experience, the Hibiscus might be the better choice due to its slightly shorter travel distance, while the Keylin caters to those who appreciate a more substantial depth in their key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
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 HMX Hibiscus switch offers a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, which adds an engaging auditory dimension to the typing experience. This sound profile can create a lively atmosphere, particularly appealing for those who appreciate auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keylin switch is noted for its rich acoustics, though the specific characteristics of its sound are not as explicitly defined. While both switches promise a compelling auditory experience, the Hibiscus may provide a more distinctly pronounced sound profile compared to the potentially warmer or muted tones of the Keylin, depending on the overall keyboard assembly and acoustics.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Hibiscus switch is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness, allowing for an exceptionally satisfying and effortless typing experience. With an ultra-light actuation force, it tends to be more responsive and can support a quick typing rhythm. Conversely, the Keygeek Keylin switch is also designed to deliver exceptional smoothness, implying that it too provides a fluid typing experience. However, specific details about its tactile response or actuation force aren’t provided, making it challenging to ascertain whether the Keylin can match the distinct lightness of the Hibiscus.
In conclusion, both the HMX Hibiscus and Keygeek Keylin linear switches aim to deliver a high-quality typing experience, each with its own unique characteristics. The Hibiscus is distinguished by its clacky and poppy sound signature alongside an ultra-light feel, while the Keylin focuses on rich acoustics and a smooth typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer different flavors of satisfaction, and personal preference will dictate the choice between them. If you're looking for a light, audible, and smooth typing experience, the Hibiscus is a strong candidate, whereas the Keylin leans towards richer acoustics while still promising smoothness.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, you should consider what aspects of your typing experience matter most to you. If you crave an ultra-light actuation force coupled with a satisfyingly clacky and poppy sound, the Hibiscus may be your ideal choice. This switch is particularly suited for those who appreciate a highly tactile feedback and a unique auditory experience while typing, making it perfect for gaming or fast-paced typing scenarios where every keystroke is both a sound and a sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a more muted sound profile but still want smoothness and a premium feel, the Keylin linear switch would likely suit you better. The Keylin’s design delivers exceptional acoustics and a rich tactile experience, making it a solid choice for typists who spend long hours at the keyboard and prioritize comfort over auditory feedback. Ultimately, consider weighing your preferences for sound and feel, as well as your overall typing habits, in order to choose the switch that will enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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