Keygeek Keylin vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keylin and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Keylin and the Cherry MX Brown stand out for their distinct characteristics tailored to different typing preferences. The Keylin, a linear switch, is celebrated for its premium typing experience, featuring rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness that appeal to users who favor swift, uninterrupted keystrokes. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown offers a tactile experience encapsulated by one word: subtlety. With its light typing force and gentle tactile feedback, the MX Brown strikes a balance for those who appreciate a bit of tactile response without overwhelming noise levels. While Keylin switches favor those seeking speed and seamless inputs, Cherry MX Browns cater to typists who enjoy a more traditional, touch-sensitive feel in their interactions. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your unique preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Keygeek Keylin and the Cherry MX Brown switches share striking similarities, particularly in the use of nylon for both their top and bottom housings. Both switches are designed with nylon, a classic material known for its acoustic properties. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The inherent softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively compared to harder plastics, creating a sound that is duller and rounder rather than sharp or harsh. Therefore, users can expect a similar auditory experience when typing on either switch, as they both leverage the sound-absorbing qualities of nylon to enhance the overall tactile feedback.
When examining the impact of the nylon material in both switches, it's important to note that the characteristics of each housing contribute to the overall feel and sound during use. For instance, while both the Keylin and MX Brown utilize nylon, the individual qualities of their top and bottom housings work together to create a unique typing experience. The bottom housing plays a pivotal role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when the key is released. With both models employing nylon in their construction, users may find that the distinctions in feel are minor, thus emphasizing the shared benefits of the nylon material in both switches.
Ultimately, since both the Keygeek Keylin and Cherry MX Brown utilize nylon for their housings, they will yield comparable results in terms of sound quality and typing experience. The consistent use of nylon in both switches means that if a user favors the auditory feedback or tactile sensation associated with one model, they are likely to enjoy a similar experience with the other. As a result, potential buyers can feel confident in their choice, knowing that the nylon material across both switches will provide a cohesive and satisfying typing experience, albeit with minor differences that may stem from their respective designs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, notable differences emerge that cater to varying typing preferences. The Keylin has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it more suitable for users who favor a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown requires a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, offering a medium-light resistance that some typists may find provides a more substantial feel. Therefore, if typists prefer a lighter switch for comfort during prolonged use, the Keylin would be the better choice. On the other hand, those seeking a stronger push feel may lean toward the Cherry MX Brown. Overall, the Keygeek Keylin is the lighter option while the Cherry MX Brown is the heavier switch, and this distinction should inform the preferences of potential users.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, there is a clear distinction. The Keylin has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the MX Brown measures 4 mm. This means that the Cherry MX Brown has the longer travel distance, offering a more pronounced keypress that some users may find provides a satisfying depth. Conversely, the Keylin's shorter travel distance could appeal to those who prioritize faster response times, which is particularly favored by gamers. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for either a more responsive feel with the Keylin or a deeper, more tactile experience with the MX Brown.
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 Brown 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
When it comes to sound, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch is known for its rich acoustics, suggesting a sound profile that delivers a premium auditory experience during typing. This is complemented by the smooth operation characteristic of linear switches, which means that the sound is likely to be less distracting and more pleasant compared to higher-pitched alternatives. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch is recognized for its bassy and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deeper and more resonant feedback with each key press. The subdued audio feedback of the MX Brown makes it an appealing choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience without sacrificing tactile engagement.
Moving on to feel, the Keylin linear switch offers a premium typing experience characterized by exceptional smoothness, which is typical of linear switches. This means that typists can expect consistent key travel and no tactile bumps, resulting in a fluid and uninterrupted typing experience. However, the Cherry MX Brown introduces a textured feel with gentle tactility; the tactile bump is intended to provide feedback without being overly pronounced. This texture can introduce some subtle friction during key presses, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a tactile response while typing.
In summary, both the Keygeek Keylin and Cherry MX Brown switches offer distinct yet compelling attributes. The Keylin leans toward a smooth and rich auditory experience, ideal for those who prioritize a seamless typing feel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown provides a tactile feedback that many find satisfying, along with a low-pitched sound profile that suits quieter environments. Ultimately, if you're seeking a linear experience, the Keylin will deliver significant smoothness and pleasant sound, while the MX Brown caters to those who appreciate tactile cues and a deeper sound profile. Your choice will depend on your personal preference for either smooth linear action or a textured tactile sensation.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a lighter actuation force and desire a smooth, unobtrusive typing experience with rich acoustics, the Keylin switch is an excellent choice. It's particularly well-suited for those who enjoy rapid key presses and gaming scenarios where smoothness and quick response are paramount. On the other hand, if you prefer a balanced mix of feedback and subtlety, the Cherry MX Brown is designed for you. The medium-light actuation force combined with a gentle tactile bump provides a satisfying typing experience, making it ideal for typists who may appreciate some feedback without being overly distracting. Moreover, the deeper, bassy sound profile of the MX Brown can add a comforting auditory element to your work environment, especially if you enjoy the textured feel that aligns with your typing rhythm. Ultimately, consider how each switch aligns with your typing habits and environment to make the most suitable choice for your mechanical keyboard journey.
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