Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Gateron Type L, both linear switches with their own unique characteristics. The Keygeek Raw stands out for its blend of materials, combining Nylon and UMPE in the top housing and UMPE with a touch of Silicon in the bottom, creating a creamy yet lightweight switch that offers a slightly textured feel straight out of the box. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L is part of Sillyworks' Project Rehash, offering a light touch that only requires 45g to bottom out, along with a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. While the Keygeek Raw is known for its textured and mild feel, the Gateron Type L is praised for being easy to press and feathery. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and specific needs, so 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
38g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Keygeek Raw and Gateron Type L both use nylon in their housing materials, which gives them a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to switches made with harder plastics. However, the Keygeek Raw also incorporates UPE in its blend, which may provide additional sound-absorbing properties. This could result in a slightly different sound experience when typing on the Keygeek Raw compared to the Gateron Type L.
Additionally, the Keygeek Raw's blend of UMPE and Si in the bottom housing sets it apart from the Gateron Type L, which uses a nylon bottom housing. The qualities that each housing material brings to the switch will be split between the top and bottom of the switch, affecting both the bottom-out sound and feel as well as the sound when letting go of a key. This means that the Keygeek Raw may offer a unique typing experience due to the combination of materials used in its housing.
In terms of similarities, both switches use nylon in their housing materials, which provides a softer plastic feel and absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound profile that adds depth to the typing experience. While the specific blend of materials used in the Keygeek Raw may offer a slightly different sound profile compared to the Gateron Type L, both switches ultimately provide a high-quality housing material that enhances the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is evident that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Keygeek Raw has no specified actuation force, while the Gateron Type L has an actuation force of 38 grams, making it lighter. In terms of bottom out force, the Keygeek Raw requires 57.5 grams, which is heavier compared to the Gateron Type L's 45 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Gateron Type L may appeal to users who prefer a smoother typing experience or engage in lengthy typing sessions, while the heavier bottom out force of the Keygeek Raw may be favored by those who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is clear that the Keygeek Raw has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Type L has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The 0.6 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can have an impact on how the key feels when pressed. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the Keygeek Raw for its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Gateron Type L. Both switches offer a different tactile experience to cater to individual preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance in a linear switch.
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 Type L comes in at $4.70 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 Type L switches are categorized as neutral, offering a moderate actuation force requirement and a sound profile that is versatile for various users and settings. However, the Type L switch also has a subdued quality, producing a dampened sound when pressed, which may be preferred for a quieter typing experience, especially in shared spaces. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard's build and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Keygeek Raw switch is described as textured, providing noticeable friction when pressed, which can be a preferred characteristic for some users. The switch offers a mild and subtle typing experience, falling into a safe middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, requiring little exertion from the fingers and offering a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. This makes the Type L switch comfortable for activities like gaming, schoolwork, or professional use.
In conclusion, both the Keygeek Raw and Gateron Type L switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. While the Keygeek Raw switch offers a textured feel and a creamy yet lightweight construction, the Gateron Type L switch stands out for its feathery actuation and lightness, making it comfortable for prolonged typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and the intended use case, ensuring that users can achieve a satisfying typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch or the Gateron Type L linear switch, you should take into account your preference for bottom out force and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a creamy yet lightweight feel, the Keygeek Raw switch might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a feathery and easy-to-press feel, the Gateron Type L switch could be more suitable. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them versatile choices for various typing scenarios. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for actuation force and typing experience.
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