Keygeek Keylin vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keylin and the Durock Sea Glass switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Keygeek Keylin and the Durock Sea Glass are two exceptional linear options that cater to different user preferences. The Keylin is celebrated for its innovative design, utilizing new molds from Keygeek to offer a typing experience that is not only incredibly smooth but also rich in acoustics, making each keystroke a joy. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass captures attention with its striking selection of pastel colors and promises a typing experience that is both dry and airy, yet surprisingly smooth. With a bottom-out force of 62g, the Sea Glass switches deliver a weightless feel, perfect for those who prefer a feather-light touch. Ultimately, while the Keylin excels in providing a premium and immersive feel, the Sea Glass offers a visually appealing, frictionless experience that feels effortless. 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
P3+
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Keylin and the Durock Sea Glass switches, there are some notable similarities and differences that emerge, particularly in terms of sound profiles and material composition. The Keylin features a top and bottom housing made solely from nylon, a classic choice recognized for its ability to absorb sound and create a deeper, fuller sound profile. This softness is instrumental in producing a duller and rounder auditory experience, making it highly favored among typists seeking a comfortable and muted typing sound. In contrast, the Sea Glass incorporates a unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE (Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene) for both its top and bottom housing. This different composition results in a sound profile that leans slightly brighter, while still maintaining a pleasant quality, albeit less deep than that of the Keylin.
The construction of the Sea Glass with its mixed materials introduces an interesting dynamic to its performance. Unlike the Keylin's homogenous nylon housings, the combination of polymer nylon and UHMWPE serves to produce a sound that, while bright, possesses a distinct character compared to the classic nylon. This divergence means that while both switches can deliver enjoyable auditory experiences, the Keylin's sound is characterized by a warmer depth, whereas the Sea Glass offers a more balanced brightness that some users may prefer for more distinct keystrokes. However, both designs still allow for a measure of sound absorption, though the Keylin might excel more in reducing sharpness, giving users a different feel depending on their typing preferences.
In practical application, the choice between the Keylin and Sea Glass could leverage similar effective results due to the shared properties within their respective housings. While the Keylin’s nylon absorbs sound more significantly to create a rounder response, the Sea Glass’s polymer blend integrates unique tonal qualities that can also be customized through user preference. If one were to use each switch side by side, the Keylin would likely cater to those preferring a fuller sound with softer feedback, while the Sea Glass would appeal to users who enjoy a slightly brighter and more pronounced auditory feedback when typing. Thus, those who seek an engaging typing experience may find value in either option, though their distinct sound profiles would cater to different auditory tastes.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, there are notable differences in weight that cater to varying typing preferences. The Keylin switch, with an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, is classified as light, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, as less force is required to register a keystroke. In contrast, the Sea Glass switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, falling into the medium category. This weightier feel can provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, users seeking a lighter touch will gravitate towards the Keylin switch for its less strenuous actuation, while those who favor a firmer response will likely choose the Durock Sea Glass for its increased resistance.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Keylin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, which features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm may seem minimal, but it can significantly impact the feel and responsiveness of the switches. For gamers seeking quicker response times, the Keylin's shorter travel distance may provide a more immediate activation, catering to those who favor swift keystrokes. Conversely, the Sea Glass, with its greater travel distance, might be more appealing to users who appreciate a more pronounced feedback sensation when typing or gaming, as it allows for a deeper keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding key travel; those who prefer responsiveness may opt for the Keylin, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes might lean towards the Sea Glass.
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 Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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
In terms of sound, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch is lauded for its rich acoustics, providing a pleasant auditory experience during typing. The sound profile is characterized by depth and fullness, likely due to the quality of materials and manufacturing processes that contribute to its premium feel. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass switch features a uniquely hollow sound signature, which gives it a distinct acoustic character that may resonate differently with users. The dry, wispiness of the Sea Glass may not be as full-bodied as the Keylin, but this lighter sound can also be appealing depending on personal preferences. Both switches' sound characteristics can be influenced by the choice of keyboard frame and keycaps, which means that while they can produce different sound profiles, specific setups can yield similar auditory results.
Regarding feel, the Keylin linear switch is enthusiastically praised for its exceptional smoothness, resulting in a fluid and enjoyable typing experience. While the specific descriptor for its feel isn't detailed, the implications are that its design involves a seamless operation that fosters a premium touch. In contrast, the Durock Sea Glass switches are described as frictionless, offering a gentle typing experience that's easy on the fingers. With descriptors like mild, feathery, and easy-to-press, these switches provide a light touch that minimizes resistance and fatigue, making them comfortable for extended typing sessions. The combination of these attributes makes the Sea Glass switches inviting for both casual users and those who type for long periods. Therefore, while both switches promise smooth operation, the experience with the Keylin may lean toward a more premium and engaging tactile feel, whereas the Sea Glass offers a more relaxed and effortless touch.
In conclusion, both the Keygeek Keylin and Durock Sea Glass linear switches cater to different preferences, with the Keylin focusing on a richer sound and premium feel, while the Sea Glass emphasizes a lighter and frictionless typing experience with a unique sound signature. Users looking for a warm, full-bodied auditory experience may gravitate toward the Keylin, whereas those who prefer a more subdued yet enjoyable typing experience might find the Sea Glass to be the better option. Depending on personal taste in sound and tactile feedback, each switch can deliver satisfaction, making them both strong contenders in the linear switch category.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a light actuation with minimal resistance, the Keylin switch, with its 48-gram bottom-out force and premium typing experience characterized by rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness, would be your best bet. It is particularly well-suited for those who engage in long typing sessions, thanks to its feathery feel and easy-to-press nature, helping to reduce finger fatigue significantly. On the other hand, if you're drawn to a medium actuation force that still feels effortless, the Sea Glass switch with a 62-gram bottom-out force may capture your interest. Its unique blend of materials provides a distinct dryness and airy sound profile that can be quite enchanting. Additionally, the frictionless and mild characteristics of the Sea Glass switches ensure a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, making them a great choice for users who appreciate a slightly more grounded feel while still enjoying extended comfort. In essence, the decision should reflect the balance between your desired switch weight and your aesthetic preferences—light and smooth versus medium but still effortlessly engaging.
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