Keygeek Keylin vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keylin and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the Keygeek Keylin and the Cherry MX Speed Silver offers distinct advantages tailored for different user preferences. The Keygeek Keylin stands out with its innovative design and new molds that provide a premium typing experience characterized by rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness. This switch is particularly appealing for those who prioritize a satisfying and enjoyable typing feel, making it a great choice for enthusiasts and typists alike. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is engineered for gamers, boasting a full-height design that maximizes speed alongside a low spring resistance for instant triggering. Its quick response time is crucial for competitive play, where precision and timing are paramount. While both switches offer linear actions suited for smooth keystrokes, they cater to different user needs—one emphasizing acoustic feedback and typing pleasure, while the other focuses on rapid performance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Keygeek Keylin and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches share a notable similarity: both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material is essential as nylon is recognized for its ability to produce a distinctively deeper and fuller sound profile. When typing on switches constructed with nylon, users can expect a sound that is duller and rounder due to the material's relatively softer nature. The inherent properties of nylon help absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, contributing to a more muted auditory experience. As a result, both switches are likely to deliver a satisfying and controlled sound when typing, appealing to users who prefer a quieter keyboard.
Additionally, since both the Keylin and MX Speed Silver switches incorporate nylon in both their top and bottom housings, the impact of the materials on the typing experience and sound profile is consistent. The effect of each housing on the overall sound is also significant in different phases of use: the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Because both switches share the same material properties, users will experience similarly rounded sounds when pressing and releasing the keys, ensuring a cohesive auditory experience throughout the use of either switch.
Furthermore, even though the Keylin and MX Speed Silver switches may differ in terms of design and actuation mechanisms, the uniformity in their housing materials indicates that users can expect comparable results in terms of sound and typing feel. The combined use of nylon in both the top and bottom housings means that any variations brought by other design elements are likely to complement the shared properties of the nylon. This synergy allows for an enjoyable typing experience across both switches, making them suitable options for those who appreciate the characteristics offered by nylon in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Keylin linear switch to the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, we find notable differences in their actuation forces. The Keylin features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, making it suitable for extended typing sessions and gaming, as it requires less effort to register a keystroke. In contrast, the MX Speed Silver necessitates a higher actuation force of 45 grams, which may provide a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a firmer touch. The bottom out force for the Keylin is 48 grams, indicating that it offers a definitive tactile feedback when the switch is fully pressed down. Unfortunately, the bottom out force for the MX Speed Silver is not available, but since its actuation force requires more pressure, it is reasonable to infer that its bottom out force would also likely be higher. Overall, the Keylin is the lighter option, while the MX Speed Silver is the heavier switch, appealing to different preferences among users regarding typing feel and endurance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, the Keylin measures 3.6 mm while the MX Speed Silver has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that if you're looking for a more responsive feel under your fingers, the Cherry MX Speed Silver may be more suited to your preferences due to its shorter actuation distance, which can result in faster response times, especially favored by gamers. On the other hand, the Keylin's longer travel distance of 3.6 mm may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel and deeper keypresses. Therefore, while both switches cater to different gaming and typing experiences, those wanting quicker actuation should consider the MX Speed Silver, while those seeking a heartier depth may opt for the Keylin.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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 noted for its rich acoustics, which suggests that it produces a deep and satisfying auditory feedback upon actuation. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is characterized by its thocky, low-pitched sound. This switch emits a deeper, bass-heavy tone that some users find compelling for both gaming and typing experiences. It's essential to remember that the total sound profile is influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, but the MX Speed Silver's low-pitched thock is generally recognized as more pronounced than the potentially mellower notes of the Keylin.
In terms of feel, the Keylin linear switch is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness, although specific descriptors of its tactile feedback are not provided. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is described to have a textured feel, which means it may exhibit some noticeable friction during actuation. This could lead to a different typing sensation altogether; users who prefer a buttery smooth experience might gravitate towards the Keylin, whereas those who enjoy a bit of texture may appreciate the tactile aspects of the Speed Silver more.
In conclusion, both the Keygeek Keylin and Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Keylin is recognized for its rich sound and smoothness, while the MX Speed Silver stands out with its thocky sound and textured feel. Ultimately, if you are looking for a premium typing experience combined with rich acoustics and smooth action, the Keylin is the better choice. Conversely, if rapid response and a slight tactile feedback are your priority, the Speed Silver is more aligned with those needs. Depending on your preferences, either switch can deliver a satisfying experience, albeit in different ways.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch should be guided by your primary use case and preferences. If you prioritize a premium typing experience characterized by rich acoustics, exceptional smoothness, and a lighter bottom-out force of 48 grams, the Keylin is an excellent option. It suits those who enjoy a satisfying tactile feedback during typing and appreciate a more mellow sound profile that can bring a delightful auditory experience to daily tasks or casual gaming. On the other hand, if you're focused on competitive gaming where swift key actions are crucial, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is your best bet. Its design emphasizes instant actuation and full-height keys, which can provide crucial responsiveness during fast-paced gameplay. Although it may deliver a more textured feel and a thocky, low-pitched sound, these aspects cater to gamers who thrive on speed and performance rather than typing comfort. Ultimately, your decision will hinge on whether you value a refined typing experience or a high-speed gaming advantage.
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