Keygeek Keylin vs. KTT Laurel

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Keylin and the KTT Laurel both stand out as exceptional linear options, yet they cater to different preferences in typing experience. The Keylin, crafted with new molds by Keygeek, is celebrated for its rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness, which can provide a luxurious feel for typists who appreciate that velvety glide with every keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel offers a medium-light resistance that many users find conducive to rapid typing, thanks to its full POM housing and long pole design that enhances responsiveness while maintaining comfort. While the Keylin may appeal to those who prioritize a premium, immersive sound and smooth action, the Laurel caters to users seeking a balance of snappiness and a subtly low-pitched sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.

By the numbers

Keygeek Keylin Linear

KTT Laurel Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$4.42

$3.95 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Keygeek Keylin and the KTT Laurel utilize different materials for their top housing, which significantly influences their acoustic performance. The Keylin features a top housing made of nylon, a classic material known for its ability to absorb sound effectively. This absorption results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it creates a duller and rounder acoustic quality. In contrast, the Laurel employs POM for its top housing. POM, or polyoxymethylene, also contributes to a unique sound signature but is noted for producing a sound that is comparatively muted yet still rich. While both materials can result in a deeper sound, the qualities of nylon may lean towards warmth, whereas POM offers a different nuance to the overall auditory experience.

Examining the bottom housings reveals similar characteristics and distinctions between the two switches. The Keylin’s nylon bottom housing reinforces the type's deeper sound profile, similar to its top counterpart. This softness of nylon allows for effective sound absorption, enhancing the overall auditory quality as it creates a well-dampened feedback when the switch bottoms out. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel uses a POM bottom housing, which, like the top housing, produces a pleasingly muted sound. The differences between the bottom housings suggest that, while both can produce a pleasing sound, nylon’s softer nature may create a more pronounced tactile feedback in comparison to the unique yet slightly more rigid sound signature of POM.

In terms of overall typing experience and sound quality, the differences between the Keylin and Laurel's housing materials complement each other, creating a unique signature for each switch. With both switches displaying different acoustical properties in their top and bottom housings, users may notice variations in the sound profile as they type. However, both POM and nylon are adept at producing deeper sounds, which implies that regardless of the individual material characteristics, users can expect a rich auditory experience from either switch. Whether experiencing the warmer tones of nylon or the unique sound profile of POM, both the Keylin and Laurel deliver on the promise of a satisfying and deeply engaging typing experience.

Weight

The Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch both exhibit relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. The Keylin features an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Laurel has slightly heavier forces with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. As a result, the Keylin is the lighter choice, appealing to those who prefer a gentler touch, whereas the Laurel offers a bit more resistance for users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Although both switches are categorized as light, the Keylin provides a slightly softer feel compared to the KTT Laurel, which may influence personal preference depending on users' typing habits and comfort levels.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, the Keylin offers a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Laurel has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Keylin the switch with the longer travel distance, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial key press that feels deeper and less abrupt. In contrast, the Laurel's shorter travel distance could cater to gamers or users seeking quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. If you were to choose either of these switches, you would find that both provide relatively similar experiences due to their close travel distances, but ultimately, the Keylin may offer a more pronounced tactile feel while the Laurel promotes swifter action.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Keygeek Keylin linear switch offers a rich acoustic experience that enhances the overall typing sound, contributing to a premium feel during use. This immersive sound quality is complemented by the switch’s exceptional smoothness, making each keystroke satisfying and pleasing to the ear. In contrast, the KTT Laurel switch presents a subtly low-pitched sound profile, which tends to be bass-heavy and mellow. While both switches aim for a pleasing auditory experience, the Keylin aims for a rich acoustic sensation, while the Laurel leans toward a more subdued, less pronounced sound.

When it comes to the tactile feel, the Keylin is designed to provide an exceptionally smooth typing experience, which is likely to captivate users who value fluidity in their keystrokes. Meanwhile, the KTT Laurel switch is characterized as snappy, suggesting a responsive typing experience that makes it feel lively and engaging. This responsiveness can often be attributed to its longer or dual-staged springs, which lead to an enhanced tactile feedback when typing. Thus, while both switches have their unique attributes in terms of feel, the Keylin focuses on smoothness, and the Laurel emphasizes snappiness.

Overall, both switches possess qualities that cater to distinct preferences in sound and feel. The Keylin delivers an engaging acoustic atmosphere with exceptional smoothness, while the KTT Laurel offers a low-pitched sound complemented by a snappy tactile feedback. Depending on individual preference, one might choose the richer sound and smooth experience of the Keylin or the lively responsiveness of the Laurel. Ultimately, both options promise a captivating and enjoyable typing experience, allowing users to find the best match for their personal style.

Conclusion

To wrap up, when deciding between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, your choice should be guided by your specific preferences in typing feel and sound profile. If you prioritize a smooth and premium typing experience with rich acoustics, the Keylin is a fantastic option, particularly for typists who appreciate a more refined sound and feel under their fingers. Its lighter bottom-out force of 48 grams can enhance fast typing speeds, making it ideal for users looking for a less tiring experience during long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you value a snappier and more responsive feel, the KTT Laurel would be the better choice. With a bottom-out force of 50 grams and its full POM housing, the Laurel combines a lightweight feel with a snappy response, making it excellent for both typing and gaming. Additionally, its low-pitched sound profile offers a subtly mellow acoustic experience that many find appealing. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal preferences for typing dynamics and the auditory experience you seek in your mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Keygeek Keylin Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

KTT Laurel Linear

$4.42

$3.95 per 10

Learn more