Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch both offer unique advantages. The Keygeek Raw switches stand out for their blend of Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon materials, resulting in a creamy yet lightweight feel with a slightly textured touch right out of the box. They are perfect for enthusiasts who prefer to hand-lube their switches, providing a balanced typing experience categorized as 'Textured', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Subtle'. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i switches make a subtle entrance with gentle tactility and a muted sound profile suitable for office settings. These switches are bouncy, easy-to-press, and snappy, offering a comfortable typing experience categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Snappy', 'Subtle', and 'Stepped'. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
N/A
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Keygeek Raw and Gateron Mini i switches both use nylon in their construction. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches made with nylon housing. However, the Keygeek Raw also incorporates UPE and Si blends in its housing, exclusive to their switches, which may offer unique sound characteristics compared to the Gateron Mini i.
In terms of sound production, the nylon housing of both the Keygeek Raw and Gateron Mini i switches will contribute to a similar deep and full sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. However, the Keygeek Raw's additional UMPE and Si blends in its bottom housing may offer a different sound experience compared to the Mini i's purely nylon bottom housing. This unique blend in the Keygeek Raw's housing material may result in a slightly different sound profile that is exclusive to their switches.
When it comes to the tactile experience of typing on these switches, the housing materials play a significant role in determining the overall feel. The Keygeek Raw's unique blend of UMPE and Si in both the top and bottom housing may offer a distinct tactile feedback compared to the Gateron Mini i's purely nylon housing. While both switches may result in a similar depth and fullness in sound, the housing materials will influence the feel and feedback when pressing down and releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between the Keygeek Raw and Gateron Mini i switches will depend on the specific sound and tactile experience desired by the user, with the housing materials playing a crucial role in shaping these aspects of switch performance.
Weight
In comparing the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, it is evident that the Keygeek Raw has a medium bottom out force of 57.5 grams while the Gateron Mini i has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. In terms of actuation force, the Keygeek Raw has an unknown force while the Gateron Mini i has a force of 40 grams. The Keygeek Raw provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, while the Gateron Mini i offers a lighter touch for those who prefer a softer keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press weight and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distances, it is evident that both switches offer a similar key press experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that whether you choose the Keygeek Raw linear switch or the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, you can expect to get similar results in terms of key travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
The Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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
When it comes to sound, both the Keygeek Raw and Gateron Mini i switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various scenarios. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used, so both switches offer versatility in sound based on different setups. Moving on to the feel, the Keygeek Raw switch is characterized by a slightly textured and mild typing experience, ideal for those who appreciate a subtle tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i switch provides a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, offering a more lively and responsive typing experience. Overall, while the Keygeek Raw switch leans towards a textured and mild feel, the Gateron Mini i switch offers a bouncy and easy-to-press sensation. Depending on individual preferences and typing styles, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different user needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a slightly textured, creamy feel with a medium actuation force, the Keygeek Raw may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy, easy-to-press switch with a lighter actuation force and a gentle tactility, the Gateron Mini i could be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a subtle yet satisfying typing experience or a responsive, comfortable keystroke. Make your choice based on what resonates with your typing preferences and needs.
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