Keygeek Keylin vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keylin and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Keylin and the Cherry Nixie are two impressive linear options that cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The Keylin, utilizing new molds from Keygeek, stands out with its premium build quality, offering a smooth and rich acoustic profile that many users find appealing for both gaming and typing tasks. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie switches boast a distinguished reputation in the keyboard community, characterized by their substantial heft and textured feel, resulting in a more tactile experience that merges traditional design with modern enhancements thanks to Cherry's MX2A update. While the Keylin focuses on exceptional smoothness and rich acoustics, the Nixie delivers a thocky and low-pitched typing experience that can make each keystroke satisfying in its own right. 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
63.5g
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
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of both the Keygeek Keylin and the Cherry Nixie switches are identical, as both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. Nylon is widely recognized as a classic material for switch housing, contributing a distinctive sound profile to typists’ experiences. When typing on these switches, users will notice a deeper and fuller sound, largely attributed to nylon's softer plastic properties. This material absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a mellower and rounder acoustic output. As a result, both switch options promise a similar auditory experience for users looking to achieve that desired sound profile.
Since the top and bottom housings of both the Keylin and the Nixie are made from the same nylon material, the overall tactile experience remains consistent across the two switches. The bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out feel and sound when a key is pressed, while the top housing primarily influences the release sound during key release. This characteristic duality means that regardless of the specific model chosen, users can expect to feel and hear the effects of the nylon material seamlessly integrated throughout their typing experience. This contributes to a harmonious typing sensation, enhancing user satisfaction with both switch types.
In summary, the identical use of nylon in both the Keygeek Keylin and Cherry Nixie switches leads to analogous sound profiles and tactile sensations. While the effect of each housing can differ when focusing on its position, the underlying material—nylon—ensures that typists experience the same qualities in both cases. Consequently, individuals seeking a full and rich auditory feedback from their mechanical keyboard will find that either switch provides an excellent choice, making them functionally interchangeable when it comes to sound characteristics and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Keylin switch features a light actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended use during work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie switch has a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial push feel that some users may find more satisfying. Consequently, while the Keylin is the lighter option designed for comfort over long periods, the Nixie is heavier, catering to those seeking a robust tactile sensation. Since both switches have different actuation forces, they will not yield the same typing experience, highlighting the importance of personal preference when selecting between them.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is clear that they differ significantly. The Keylin features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Nixie has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Keylin can offer quicker response times, making it an appealing choice for gamers who prioritize speed and responsiveness in their keystrokes. In contrast, the Nixie's 4 mm travel distance may provide a more substantial tactile experience for users who prefer a deeper feel when typing, allowing for a more deliberate keypress. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference, with the Keylin being better suited for those who favor a brisk action and the Nixie catering to those who enjoy a more pronounced key engagement.
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 Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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, delivering a sound profile that aims to enhance the typing experience with a premium resonance. Meanwhile, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched tones, producing a deep, satisfying sound reminiscent of a soft thud or knock upon actuation. This characteristic can provide an enjoyable auditory feedback that many typists find appealing. However, it is essential to note that the sound profile can vary depending on the choice of keyboard construction and keycap materials, which can influence both switches' overall auditory experiences.
In terms of feel, the Keylin switch promises exceptional smoothness, providing a fluid actuation experience that many users seek in a linear switch. On the other hand, the Nixie switch incorporates a textured quality, offering noticeable friction during key presses. This tactile element can be a point of preference for typists who appreciate some resistance while typing, contrasting with the smoother feel of the Keylin. The difference in these tactile experiences means that individuals may gravitate toward one switch over the other based on their typing style and preferences.
In conclusion, both the Keygeek Keylin and Cherry Nixie linear switches present distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Keylin offers a smoother, acoustically rich typing experience, while the Nixie delivers a textured, thocky auditory feedback. Ultimately, the choice between them will depend on whether one values a premium smoothness or a more textured engagement when typing. Regardless of which switch you choose, both can provide excellent results, ensuring a satisfying typing experience in their own right.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch will largely depend on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a lighter touch and prefer a typing experience characterized by smoothness and rich acoustics, the Keylin switch would be an excellent choice for you. Its 48-gram bottom-out force makes it ideal for rapid typing and gaming, providing a gentler feel that can reduce finger fatigue over extended use. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial, tactile experience with a heavier keystroke, the Cherry Nixie is the better pick. With its 80-gram bottom-out force and thocky sound profile, the Nixie switch offers a satisfying, low-pitched thudding sound that many typists adore, plus the textured feel can give your keystrokes a distinct feedback that's hard to replicate. Ultimately, your decision will revolve around whether you favor the lightweight, smooth characteristics of the Keylin or the heavier, more textured, and acoustically engaging attributes of the Nixie.
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