Keygeek Keylin vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keylin and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference and typing style, and two compelling options are the Keygeek Keylin and the Bsun Olive. The Keygeek Keylin, heralded for its innovative molds, offers a linear switch experience that prioritizes smoothness and rich acoustics, making it an excellent choice for those who value a quiet and uninterrupted typing flow. In contrast, the Bsun Olive stands out with its unique tactile feedback and resonant sound, thanks to its all-POM housing and long pole stem, delivering a pronounced tactile experience that many typists find invigorating. The Olive's medium weight and sharp bottom-out sensation add to its appeal for users seeking a more interactive typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences—whether you desire the seamless glide of the Keylin or the satisfying feedback of the Olive. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Keylin and Bsun Olive switches, it's evident that the two switches utilize different materials that influence their sound profiles and overall typing experience. The Keylin features a nylon top and bottom housing, recognized for its ability to generate a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This characteristic allows the nylon to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Bsun Olive employs a POM (polyoxymethylene) material for both the top and bottom housings. POM is known for producing a unique and pleasing sound, also tending toward the deeper spectrum but with a more muted quality compared to nylon. This distinction suggests that while both materials create rich sound profiles, the nuances of POM offer a slightly more refined auditory sensation.
The differences in sound profiles brought about by the switch housing materials manifest in how users experience each switch. The nylon in the Keylin offers a combination of depth and fullness, maintained consistently across both the top and bottom. This unity in material typically results in a harmonious sound when typing and bottoming out, as there are no mixed characteristics between the housings. Conversely, the Bsun Olive's POM housings introduce a divergence; the top housing’s unique sound is complemented by the muted qualities of the bottom housing. When pressing the switch, users will experience how both the top and bottom housing influences the auditory results, but they might notice that the POM gives a distinctive textural feel while typing, along with a different auditory output when releasing a key.
Ultimately, while both switches aim for a pleasing sound profile, their differing housing materials lead to distinct auditory experiences. The Keylin’s consistent nylon blend offers a combined sound experience, whereas the Bsun Olive provides a more complex interaction between the top and bottom housings due to the differing properties of nylon and POM. To achieve similar outcomes in terms of sound quality, users may find that adjusting typing techniques or using o-rings could help in modulating the auditory experience, regardless of the housing materials used. By focusing on the typing dynamics and environment, it is possible to bridge the gap between the distinct sound profiles of these two unique switch designs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, notable differences emerge that cater to varying user preferences. The Keylin switch features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it an excellent option for those who prefer a softer touch that facilitates extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons. In contrast, the Olive switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with increased resistance. As a result, users who favor lighter switches may gravitate towards the Keylin, while those who appreciate a heftier feel might prefer the Olive. Overall, the Keylin is the lighter option, whereas the Olive is classified as medium-heavy, providing a clear distinction in actuation preferences for potential buyers.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, the Keylin measures 3.6 mm, while the Olive has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Keylin the longer of the two switches, providing a bit more depth when pressed, which might appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Olive's shorter travel distance aligns with the preferences of gamers who often favor quicker response times and a more immediate actuation. While both switches are relatively close in distance, those who prioritize a swift and responsive typing or gaming experience may lean towards the Olive, whereas those seeking a fuller keystroke might prefer 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 Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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 switches are renowned for their rich acoustics, delivering a satisfying auditory experience that enhances the overall typing atmosphere. While specific sound characteristics of the Keylin are not detailed, their emphasis on premium sound implies a quality that should be pleasant and full-bodied. In contrast, the Bsun Olive switches stand out with their resonant, deep sound, attributed to their all-POM housings. This creates an auditory profile that is distinctively satisfying and adds a layer of depth to each keystroke. Ultimately, both switches offer unique auditory experiences that can be further influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Keylin linear switches are celebrated for their exceptional smoothness, providing a seamless typing experience that is particularly appealing to those who prefer a more fluid keystroke without any tactile interruption. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive switches introduce a pronounced tactile feedback thanks to their long pole stem design. They strike a balance as a medium-weight switch, delivering an invigorating typing sensation alongside their accented, sharp tactile bumps. This means that while the Keylin emphasizes a smooth and uninterrupted feel, the Olive delivers a more pronounced reaction with each keystroke, making each actuation feel invigorating and distinctly sharp.
In conclusion, both the Keygeek Keylin linear switches and Bsun Olive tactile switches offer unique characteristics suited for different preferences. The Keylin delivers a smooth and acoustically rich experience, ideal for those who appreciate linear switches, whereas the Olive provides a tactile feedback that is notable, invigorating, and deeply resonant. Depending on your typing style—whether you prefer a seamless experience or something with notable bumps and sounds—either switch can satisfy your needs, though the sensation and auditory experience will vary significantly.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a lightweight switch that offers a smooth and effortless typing experience, the Keylin is an excellent choice. Its lighter bottom-out force of 48 grams makes it ideal for prolonged typing sessions, as it minimizes finger fatigue while delivering an enjoyable acoustic footprint. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced tactile response with a satisfying auditory experience, the Olive switch will likely resonate with you. With its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams and a distinct tactile bump, the Olive is perfect for those who appreciate a more dynamic feedback during their typing, which can enhance your overall engagement and satisfaction. In essence, go for the Keylin if ease and smoothness are your priority, but choose the Olive if you want a vivid tactile sensation and a deeper sound profile that can make each keystroke feel more rewarding.
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