Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Raw and Gateron Type S are two popular options to explore. The Keygeek Raw stands out for its unique material blend of Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon, offering a creamy yet lightweight typing experience that can be further enhanced with hand-lubing. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S, part of Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," features a factory-lubed design with a 65g bottom-out weight for those who prefer a heavier keystroke. Both switches are categorized as having a neutral feel, but the Keygeek Raw is known for its subtle textured feel while the Gateron Type S provides a subdued sound signature. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Keygeek Raw utilizes a unique Nylon & UPE blend for its top housing, while the Gateron Type S features a more traditional nylon material. Both materials are known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to their softness and ability to absorb sound. However, the Keygeek Raw's blend may offer a slightly different sound experience compared to the Type S, as the unique combination of Nylon & UPE could result in a potentially distinct sound signature.
In terms of bottom housing, the Keygeek Raw uses a UMPE & Si blend while the Gateron Type S sticks with nylon. The bottom housing material has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, influencing the overall typing experience. While both nylon and the Keygeek Raw's blend are softer plastics that create a duller and rounder sound, the specific combination of UMPE & Si in the Keygeek Raw's bottom housing could potentially offer a different tactile experience compared to the Type S.
Overall, while both the Keygeek Raw and Gateron Type S switches utilize nylon in their housing materials, the unique blends used by Keygeek Raw may result in a slightly different typing experience compared to the more traditional nylon material of the Type S. Both switches aim to provide a deeper and fuller sound profile, but the specific combinations of materials in the top and bottom housings could lead to subtle nuances in sound and feel. However, if you are looking for a similar sound experience, both switches offer soft plastic materials that absorb sound effectively, creating a pleasing typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch differ slightly in weight. The Keygeek Raw has an actuation force of None grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, while its bottom out force is 57.5 grams, providing a medium typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S has an actuation force of 55 grams, slightly lighter than the Keygeek Raw, and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. Those who prefer a lighter typing feel may lean towards the Keygeek Raw for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Gateron Type S. Both switches offer a unique typing experience due to their differing actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Raw linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron Type S linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Keygeek Raw may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the longer travel distance of the Gateron Type S may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper actuation feel. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in choosing between the two.
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 S 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
In terms of sound, both the Keygeek Raw and the Gateron Type S switches are considered neutral, meaning they have a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various environments and levels of experience. However, the Type S has the additional quality of being subdued, offering a more dampened sound when pressed, making it a bit quieter compared to the Raw. When it comes to feel, the Keygeek Raw switch is known for its textured feel right out of the box, providing a slightly scratchy experience that some users may enjoy for its unique tactile feedback. On the other hand, information on the feel of the Gateron Type S is unavailable, but given its factory lubing techniques, it can be inferred that it may offer a smoother typing experience.
Overall, both switches offer a neutral sound profile suitable for most users, with the Keygeek Raw providing a slightly textural feel and the Gateron Type S potentially offering a smoother typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can expect similar results in terms of actuation force requirement and sound profile from both switches while potentially experiencing differences in tactile feedback and typing smoothness. It is important to consider personal preferences and typing habits when choosing between these switches to ensure a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Gateron Type S linear switches, consider the bottom-out force, material blend, and sound and feel profiles. If you prefer a slightly lighter switch with a unique material blend for a creamy yet lightweight typing experience, the Keygeek Raw linear switch may be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke and a sound profile that leans towards a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience, the Gateron Type S linear switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound, as both switches offer different characteristics to enhance your typing experience.
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