Keygeek Keylin vs. HMX Lucky
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keylin and the HMX Lucky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Keygeek Keylin and HMX Lucky linear switches both offer unique attributes that cater to different preferences. The Keygeek Keylin is celebrated for its innovative molds that provide a premium typing experience characterized by rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness, making it an ideal choice for typists who prioritize sound and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Lucky switch, with its softer and glittery nylon housings, presents a lightweight option that delivers a neutral yet deeply satisfying feel, perfect for those who enjoy a light touch with every keystroke. Both switches are designed for users seeking a smooth linear experience, but their distinctive materials and design philosophies can significantly affect the overall typing sensation. 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
38g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Keylin and the HMX Lucky, it is notable that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This commonality allows both switches to produce similar sound profiles; typing on either switch will elicit a deeper and fuller auditory experience. The inherent properties of nylon, being a softer plastic, play a crucial role in this similarity as the material helps absorb sound waves more effectively than harder plastics. This absorption leads to a duller and rounder sound, creating a pleasant and satisfying typing experience for users of both keyboards.
Despite their shared use of nylon, the distribution of sound qualities between the top and bottom housings may still influence the overall performance of each switch. In switches where the top and bottom housings differ, the characteristics of the typing experience can shift depending on which housing is more dominant. However, since the Keylin and Lucky both employ nylon in both housings, typing feel and sound output will remain consistent across the two models. The bottom housing contributes significantly to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing governs the auditory experience as keys are released, but with nylon present in both parts, the overall aural feedback will resemble one another closely.
Ultimately, the Keylin and Lucky switches exemplify how similar material choices can yield comparable outcomes in terms of typing dynamics. With both switches embracing the advantageous characteristics of nylon, users can expect a consistent experience in terms of sound and feel. Both switches will deliver that cherished depth and fullness, making them favorable options for enthusiasts seeking a rich auditory experience while typing. Thus, users can confidently enjoy the benefits of either switch, knowing they will achieve similar results from the shared housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Keylin linear switch to the HMX Lucky linear switch, both exhibit light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for users who prefer a softer typing experience. The Keylin switch features an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Lucky switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This means that while both switches are generally lightweight, the Lucky switch is marginally easier to actuate and bottoms out with less force than the Keylin. For those who favor lighter switches for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons, the Lucky may offer a slight edge in comfort. However, for users who enjoy a bit more resistance during typing, the Keylin provides a slightly heavier push feel, making it a better choice for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, while both switches have similar characteristics, the structure favors the Lucky as the lighter option.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Keylin linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Lucky linear switch has a slightly greater travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Keylin provides a shorter travel distance compared to the Lucky switch, which offers a deeper feel. Gamers may gravitate towards the Keylin for its shorter travel distance, leading to quicker response times and a more rapid key press experience. On the other hand, users who prefer a more substantial key press may find the Lucky's longer travel distance more satisfying, as it offers a fuller depth that can be more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize responsiveness or a more traditional, supportive feel in your switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
The HMX Lucky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lucky for $2.99.
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, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch is recognized for its rich acoustics, suggesting that it provides a pleasing auditory experience as you type. The HMX Lucky linear switch, on the other hand, offers a neutral sound profile, which is described as deeply satisfying, albeit softer in character. While both switches deliver a compelling sound experience, the Keylin's focus is on an enriched acoustic depth, while the Lucky switch leans towards a more subdued yet pleasant tonal quality. It is also important to consider that the overall sound produced by either switch can vary significantly based on the keyboard design and keycap material used.
When it comes to feel, the Keylin linear switch is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness, which contributes to a highly enjoyable typing experience. This smoothness denotes minimal friction during key presses, making it feel effortless to type on. The Lucky switch provides a neutral but satisfying typing feel, which suggests a well-balanced actuation without any particular characteristics that stand out as excessive or distracting. Both switches aim to offer a comfortable experience, yet the Keylin may appeal more to those looking for a premium, smooth interaction, while the Lucky serves those who appreciate a solid, trustworthy typing experience without extremes.
In conclusion, both the Keykeek Keylin and HMX Lucky linear switches cater to distinct preferences, yet both promise a satisfying typing experience. The Keylin draws attention with its rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness, making it ideal for users seeking a premium feel, while the Lucky switch's neutral sound and well-rounded feel appeal to those desiring simplicity and reliability. Ultimately, the choice between the two will heavily depend on individual preferences regarding sound and tactile feedback, as both hold their own unique qualities within the realm of linear switches.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences for feel and sound during your typing experience. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force for a more deliberate typing style, then the Keylin, with its 48 grams, may be the better option for you. It is particularly well-suited for those who enjoy a typing experience characterized by rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness, making it ideal for both typing and gaming alike. On the other hand, if you find that a lighter touch is more to your liking, the Lucky, with its 43 grams, provides a softer feel that enhances the neutral and satisfying experience it offers. Its glittery nylon housing contributes to a unique tactile feedback that many users find appealing. Additionally, if you prioritize a switch that feels effortless during long typing sessions, the Lucky will likely cater to your needs better. Ultimately, it is essential to consider how you intend to use your keyboard—whether for extended typing or gaming—and which attributes, such as sound and tactile response, resonate with you the most.
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