Keygeek Keylin vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keylin and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the Keygeek Keylin and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, both of which are linear switches designed for smooth typing experiences. The Keygeek Keylin is celebrated for its use of new molds that provide a premium feel, characterized by rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an elevated typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear offers a unique twist with its innovative design, featuring a whisper-quiet topping-out sound that contrasts with a clacky bottom-out, perfect for users who desire a balanced auditory experience. While both switches provide a smooth typing feel, the Keylin emphasizes a richer acoustic profile, whereas the Semi-Silent Linear focuses on minimizing noise without sacrificing performance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
N/A
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
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Keylin and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, a clear distinction emerges in the choice of materials for their top housings. The Keylin utilizes nylon for its top housing, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile characterized by a certain warmth and richness in tone. This quality stems from nylon's relatively softer nature, which helps to absorb sound and produce muted acoustics. In contrast, the Semi-Silent Linear opts for polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that imparts a sharper, crisper sound. The polycarbonate's inherent translucency not only aids in generating a more resonant sound but also allows for effective RGB lighting integration, offering a visual appeal that complements its auditory attributes.
Despite the differences in the top housing materials, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing, which is made from nylon for both models. This shared material fosters a consistent experience when typing, as nylon tends to absorb sound effectively and deliver a rounder bottom-out feel. The impact of the nylon bottom housing on the overall typing experience contributes significantly to the depth of the sound produced when users press down on the switches. Thus, while the sound profile differs between the two switches based on the top housing materials, the nylon bottom ensures that the characteristic fuller sound remains intertwined in both instances.
Ultimately, the combination of varying top housing materials alongside identical nylon bottoms results in distinct auditory experiences. The Keylin's nylon top housing offers a rich and resonant sound, while the Semi-Silent Linear's polycarbonate housing provides a bright and clear profile. However, the nylon bottom housing harmonizes the typing experience across both models, ensuring that, irrespective of the differences at the top, users still encounter a satisfying, fuller sound with a comforting tactile feedback during use. Therefore, while they yield unique outcomes, both switches signify how varying materials can be employed to achieve a tailored soundscape, ultimately influencing user experience.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Keylin linear switch to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, significant differences in actuation and bottom out forces are evident. The Keylin features a light actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it an ideal choice for users who prefer a lighter typing experience that allows for extended use without fatigue. In contrast, the Semi-Silent Linear switch has a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, but its actuation force is unspecified. This suggests that it may provide a more substantial typing experience, favored by those who appreciate a firmer key feel. Overall, while the Keylin caters to individuals looking for ease during prolonged periods of typing or gaming, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch may appeal to users seeking a heavier feedback feel, especially if it has a higher actuation force as well. Thus, the Keylin is the lighter option while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is the heavier one, assuming its actuation force aligns with its bottom out force tendency.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Keylin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Keylin is the shorter option, offering the potential for quicker response times, which can be particularly advantageous for gamers seeking rapid feedback. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear's longer travel distance allows for a more traditional feel, which some users might find more satisfying, as it provides a bit more depth with each keystroke. If both switches were the same in travel distance, one could expect similar results in terms of tactile feedback and responsiveness; however, due to the marginal difference, users may prefer one over the other based on their individual preferences for speed or depth in their typing experience.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 comparing the sound of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, we can consider the Keylin's rich acoustics. This switch likely presents a fuller audio profile, providing a balance between a satisfying sound and the overall experience of typing. In contrast, the Semi-Silent Linear leverages a suppressed auditory output, characterized by its subdued topping-out sound and a clacky bottom-out sound. Thus, while the Keylin switch is known for its acoustic richness, the Semi-Silent offers a more muted sound that may appeal to those who prefer a quieter environment without sacrificing the tactile feedback of key presses.
In terms of feel, the Keygeek Keylin is distinguished by its exceptional smoothness, suggesting a seamless typing experience that allows for fluid keystrokes. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear offers a more complex tactile experience. It combines a mild typing sensation for an approachable feel with snappy responsiveness that engages the typist. Additionally, the buttery smoothness and polished characteristics enhance the overall typing experience by reducing friction and promoting effortless key travel. The combination of these traits may give the Semi-Silent Linear a more dynamic feel compared to the straightforward smoothness of the Keylin.
In conclusion, both the Keygeek Keylin and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches stand out in their respective ways, catering to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Keylin might be ideal for those who enjoy rich acoustics and seamless performance, the Semi-Silent Linear provides a nuanced experience that combines moderate noise levels with responsive tactile features. Each switch is well-crafted, ensuring that typists can find comfort, customization, and an engaging typing experience regardless of their choice, albeit leading to slightly different auditory and tactile outcomes.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you prefer a lighter actuation and a premium, smooth typing experience with rich acoustics that enhance your overall feel, the Keylin switch may be the better option for you. It excels in scenarios where you're looking for a responsive typing experience, making it ideal for gamers or individuals who appreciate a nimble feel in their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you're in a setting that calls for quieter keystrokes without sacrificing feedback, the Semi-Silent Linear switch stands out for its balanced actuation force and subdued sound profile. This makes it particularly suited for shared workspaces or environments where noise levels are a concern, while still delivering a satisfying and silky typing experience. Ultimately, consider your typing style and environment carefully to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard journey.
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