Keygeek Keylin vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keylin and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Keygeek Keylin and the Cherry MX Black offer two distinct experiences, even within the linear switch category. The Keygeek Keylin is highly regarded for its innovative use of new molds, delivering a premium typing experience characterized by exceptional smoothness and rich acoustics, making it a great choice for those who prioritize sound quality and a seamless feel during typing. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black, known for its classic design, incorporates Cherry's Hyperglide technology, resulting in a textured smoothness and a familiar deep sound profile. The MX Black switches are particularly appealing for users who prefer a stiffer key press that offers tactile feedback and durability. Ultimately, whether you're drawn to the luxurious acoustics of the Keylin or the robust feel of the MX Black, both switches have their unique merits. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Keygeek Keylin and the Cherry MX Black both utilize nylon as the primary material for their top and bottom housings, creating a strong similarity in their construction. This shared choice of nylon is significant, as it lends both switches a deeper and fuller sound profile during use. The inherent properties of nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, contribute to the sound dampening effect that characterizes both switches. As a result, typing on either switch produces a rounder and warmer auditory experience, making them appealing to users who prefer a softer, more muted sound while typing.
Although both switches share the same housing material, the way each switch’s design impacts the overall typing experience can differ due to other factors within their construction, such as spring tension and actuation force. Importantly, the impact of the nylon housings on the sound profile is differentiated by the mechanics of the switches. The bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound—how it feels when the key is pressed down completely—while the top housing primarily affects the sound produced when the key is released. Since both the Keyline and Cherry MX Black use identical materials for both the top and bottom housings, it stands to reason that you will experience similar sound qualities when typing, emphasizing the effectiveness of their design in producing a satisfying tactile response.
In summary, the Keygeek Keylin and Cherry MX Black switches share a commonality in the use of nylon for both their top and bottom housings, leading to comparable auditory characteristics that enhance the typing experience. While the resemblance in materials suggests a parallel performance in sound dampening, variations in other design elements could lead to different overall sensations while typing. Nonetheless, the combination of nylon's acoustic properties, consistent across both switches, ensures a deeper, fuller sound profile, making either choice a favorable option for users seeking a more acoustically soft and rich typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Keylin switch features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it an excellent choice for users who prefer a more comfortable typing experience over extended periods, such as at work or during long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, appealing to those who seek a more substantial and deliberate keystroke for a robust typing experience. Consequently, the Keylin switch is lighter overall, while the MX Black is heavier, catering to different user preferences in the spectrum of typing feel and force required.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Keylin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cherry MX Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Keylin the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel ideal for gamers seeking faster response times. In contrast, the MX Black with its longer 4 mm travel distance might provide a more substantial depth that some users find comfortable, particularly for typing. While both switches cater to different preferences, those who choose the Keylin will experience a slightly quicker actuation, whereas those who opt for the Cherry MX Black may enjoy a more deliberate and cushioned press. Ultimately, the choice between the two hinges on whether one values quicker actuation or a deeper, more traditional keystroke experience.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch is recognized for its rich acoustics, contributing to a pleasant auditory experience that enhances the overall typing journey. This is often complemented by the choice of board and keycaps, which can further accentuate the switch’s natural resonance. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switch features a low-pitched sound profile that is characterized by a deep, bass-heavy tone. This mellowness adds a unique auditory quality that many users appreciate, creating a satisfying feedback loop with each keystroke. Both switches will deliver distinctive sound characteristics, but expect the Keylin to provide a more premium resonance while the MX Black leans towards a classic, subdued tone.
When we consider the feel of the switches, the Keylin's unique design emphasizes a smooth typing experience, offering a fluid action without noticeable friction. This feature is particularly appealing to those who enjoy a seamless flow when typing. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black switches are noted for their textured feel, which provides a certain level of friction during keypresses. This texture can enhance the tactile feedback for some users but may be perceived as scratchy or less fluid by others. Additionally, the MX Black's stiffness necessitates a greater effort to actuate, potentially challenging users who prefer a lighter touch. This contrast highlights fundamental differences in typing preference, where the Keylin attracts those seeking smoothness and the MX Black caters to users appreciating textured resistance.
In summary, both the Keygeek Keylin and Cherry MX Black linear switches offer distinctive sound and feel attributes that cater to varying user preferences. While the Keylin excels in providing rich acoustics and fluid key actions, the MX Black presents a low-pitched, bass-heavy sound alongside a textured, stiff typing experience. Depending on your typing style and acoustic preference, both switches can deliver satisfying results, but each will resonate differently with users based on the sound and tactile feedback they prioritize.
Conclusion
To sum up, the decision between Keygeek Keylin linear switches and Cherry MX Black linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a lighter actuation force for a quicker, less fatiguing typing experience, the Keylin switches may be more suitable for you. Their smoothness and acoustic profile cater to those who enjoy a premium feel when typing and want an overall pleasant auditory experience. On the other hand, if you appreciate a heavier switch that offers more resistance during key presses, which can aid in typing precision and prevent accidental presses, then the Cherry MX Black would be ideal. The textured nature of the MX Black switch may also resonate with users who enjoy a more tactile feedback in their key presses, even though it may come with a bit of stiffness. By considering your typing style—whether you favor speed and lightness or precision and resistance—you can determine which switch aligns best with your preferences.
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