Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch to the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it's clear that each offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Keygeek Raw stands out for its unique material blend, providing a creamy yet lightweight feel with a slightly textured touch. This switch is ideal for enthusiasts who prefer to hand-lube their switches and enjoy a mild and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro switch offers a cozy typing experience with a snappy, medium-level of tactility and crisp clacks. With a buttery and stepped feel, this switch is perfect for those looking for a more tactile and pronounced 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
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw and Jwick Taro both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Keygeek Raw features a Nylon & UPE blend top housing, while the Taro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Taro creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Nylon & UPE blend in the Keygeek Raw offers a different sound experience. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the Taro switches that is not present in the Keygeek Raw.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Keygeek Raw incorporates a UMPE & Si blend, while the Jwick Taro uses a nylon bottom housing. The UMPE & Si blend in the Keygeek Raw switches provides a unique sound profile, while the nylon in the Taro offers a deeper and fuller sound experience. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than stiffer plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the UMPE & Si blend. This difference in bottom housing materials further contributes to the distinct sound profiles of the two switches.
Overall, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and Jwick Taro switches offer contrasting housing materials that result in unique sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing of the Taro creates a crisper and higher-pitched sound, while the Nylon & UPE blend top housing of the Keygeek Raw produces a different auditory experience. Similarly, the UMPE & Si blend bottom housing of the Keygeek Raw and the nylon bottom housing of the Taro contribute to the switches' sound profiles, with each material offering its own set of characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
The Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch both have an actuation force of None grams, making them similar in that aspect. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Keygeek Raw is lighter at 57.5 grams compared to the Taro's 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. The Keygeek Raw would be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Taro would appeal to those looking for a more substantial typing feel with a heavier push. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Raw linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Taro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Raw. Both switches fall within the shorter range of travel distances, with the Taro offering a tad more depth. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference; the Raw would be preferred for those seeking a quicker response, while the Taro would be better suited for those who prefer a slightly more substantial key press. Ultimately, both switches provide a relatively short travel distance, offering a balance between responsiveness and key feel.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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, both the Keygeek Raw and Jwick Taro switches are classified as neutral, with a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. This makes them suitable for a wide range of users, whether beginners or advanced, and for use in various settings such as at home or work. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Keygeek Raw switches offer a slightly textured typing experience, which can add a unique tactile sensation when pressing the keys. They are also described as having a mild feel, falling into a safe middle-ground zone that many users find approachable. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro switches provide a buttery typing experience, with a smooth and fluid keystroke that offers a seamless and effortless sensation. Additionally, they are classified as stepped switches, providing a mild tactility with some pre-travel and/or post-travel stages during the keystroke.
Overall, both the Keygeek Raw and Jwick Taro switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. While the Keygeek Raw provides a textured and mild typing experience, the Jwick Taro delivers a buttery and stepped tactile sensation. Depending on your personal preference and typing style, you can achieve satisfying results with either switch option. It is recommended to test out both switches to determine which one aligns best with your typing needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and a creamy, hand-lube-friendly typing experience, the Keygeek Raw might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force with a snappy tactility and crisp clacks, the Jwick Taro could be the switch that suits your typing style best. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how these factors align with your personal typing preferences and needs.
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