Keygeek Keylin vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keylin and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Keylin and the Outemu Black stand out as two popular linear options, each with its own unique characteristics. The Keylin, utilizing new molds from Keygeek, is celebrated for its premium typing experience, offering rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness that can elevate the overall feel of your keyboard. In contrast, the Outemu Black, while less renowned for specific features, is often chosen for its straightforward performance and reliable durability, making it a practical selection for gamers and typists alike. Both switches cater to users looking for a linear response devoid of tactile feedback, appealing to those who prefer a quiet and smooth keypress. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Polycarbonate
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 Outemu Black switches feature distinct housing materials that significantly influence their auditory characteristics and tactile experiences. The Keylin employs a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, as a softer plastic, effectively absorbs vibrations, resulting in a rounder sound quality. In contrast, the Outemu Black utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and thus creates a sharper, crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances its aesthetic appeal, particularly when RGB lighting is employed, as it allows for a vivid display of colors. These differences suggest that the two switches will deliver contrasting auditory experiences based on their top housings.
When examining the bottom housings, both the Keygeek Keylin and the Outemu Black utilize nylon, which further impacts their overall sound profiles. Nylon's inherent softness contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when the keys bottom out, helping maintain consistency in acoustic properties across both switches. This ensures that while users may experience different sounds during key release due to their top housings, the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback will share similarities because of the identical nylon material in the bottom housing. As a result, both switches will render a comparable feel when pressed, grounded by the common denominator of nylon in their bottom constructions.
In summary, while the Keylin and Black switches differ in their top housing materials, both share the nylon composition in their bottom housings, resulting in a foundational level of similarity in typing feel. The nylon in the bottom end of both switches provides a muted, rich sound, allowing for a satisfying bottom-out experience. In contrast, the differing materials in the top housing ultimately play a pivotal role in shaping the auditory profile, creating distinct sound characteristics between the two models. Thus, while there are contrasting elements, the shared nylon bottom housing aligns their performance in terms of feel and depth of sound, highlighting how different materials can yield varied yet complementary results.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, we can see a significant difference in their tactile characteristics. The Keylin switch has a notably lighter actuation force of 38 grams, making it easier to press, while the Outemu Black requires a heftier 65 grams to register a keystroke, attracting users who prefer a more forceful typing experience. This trend continues with the bottom out forces: the Keylin has a bottom out force of 48 grams, whereas the Outemu Black features a significantly higher bottom out force of 82 grams. For those who favor a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Keylin is the obvious choice. Conversely, individuals who appreciate a more pronounced resistance and tactile feedback will likely gravitate towards the heavier Outemu Black switch. Ultimately, the disparity in force between the two switches offers users distinct experiences tailored to their preferences.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Keylin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Black linear switch features a travel distance of 4.0 mm. This difference means that the Keylin switch allows for a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Black switch. For gamers or users who prioritize faster response times, the Keylin's 3.6 mm travel distance may provide a more responsive feel. In contrast, those who prefer a more substantial depth when pressing down on keys might gravitate toward the Outemu Black, with its longer, more traditional travel distance of 4.0 mm. This variance reflects the balance between speed and tactile feedback, making it essential for users to consider their personal preferences when choosing between these two switches.
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 Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 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 offers rich acoustics that contribute to a more engaging typing experience. Users often praise it for its pleasing auditory profile, which can enhance the overall enjoyment during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Black linear switch does not have specific sound characteristics highlighted, making it harder to assess its acoustic performance. The sound produced by any switch will also significantly depend on the keyboard it is mounted on and the keycaps used, which means users looking for a particular auditory experience should consider these factors in their overall setup.
In terms of feel, the Keylin linear switch is distinguished by its exceptional smoothness, which users report as providing a premium tactile sensation while typing. This smooth action can lead to reduced finger fatigue and a more enjoyable experience over extended use. On the other hand, the Outemu Black linear switch lacks notable descriptions regarding its feel, leaving potential users without specific insights into its tactile performance. This absence of information might suggest that the switch does not stand out in terms of feel when compared to others.
Overall, while both switches are linear and therefore should provide a similar typing experience in terms of actuation force and travel, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch stands out with its premium sound and smooth feel, making it a more attractive option for newcomers looking for an enhanced typing experience. Meanwhile, the Outemu Black linear switch may not impress in the sound and feel categories, but it could still serve well for users who prioritize affordability and straightforward linear performance. Ultimately, if you favor sonic enrichment and a silky keypress, the Keylin is the way to go; otherwise, the Black may suffice for your needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences for typing experience and force sensitivity. If you favor a lighter keypress with a bottom out force of 48 grams, which promotes a smoother and more effortless typing experience, the Keylin is an excellent choice. Its premium quality and enhanced acoustics make it ideal for people who enjoy a tactile, satisfying sound and feel while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a sturdier, more resistant keypress with a heavier bottom out force of 82 grams, the Outemu Black will suit your needs better. This switch provides a firmer feedback, which can be beneficial for those who like to feel a deliberate resistance while typing. While the Keylin is designed for optimal smoothness and rich sound, the Black offers a more robust typing experience without any specific acoustic enhancements. Therefore, consider your typing style, whether you enjoy a lighter and more responsive feel or a heavier and more deliberate one, to make the best switch selection for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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