Keygeek Keylin vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keylin and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to the balance between performance, sound, and typing feel. The Keygeek Keylin switches are renowned for their exceptional smoothness and rich acoustics, making them an ideal option for typists and gamers who appreciate a premium typing experience. Their design, utilizing new molds from Keygeek, enhances the overall feel, providing a tactile satisfaction that many users crave. In contrast, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) prioritizes quiet operation without sacrificing smoothness, featuring a low-pitched, thocky sound profile that caters to those who prefer a more subdued auditory experience. The pillowy feel of the Silent Frozen switches is perfect for users in shared spaces or working environments where noise minimization is key. Both switches have unique appeal: the Keylin offers a vibrant typing experience while the Silent Frozen (V2) excels in discretion. 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
39g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
The Keygeek Keylin and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) differ significantly in their housing materials, which directly impact the sound profiles of each switch. The Keylin utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a material known for its capacity to absorb sound and provide a deeper, fuller auditory experience. This softer plastic lends the Keylin a rounded and mellower sound profile that many typists appreciate for its comfort and acoustic warmth. In contrast, the Silent Frozen (V2) employs polycarbonate for its housings, promoting a sharper and more resonant sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate results in crisper auditory feedback, appealing to those who prefer a more pronounced acoustic response. This disparity in material choice contributes to a fundamentally different auditory experience between the two switches.
In terms of aesthetics, the housing materials also present notable differences. The nylon of the Keylin switch retains a more traditional appearance, but lacks translucency; it does not allow for RGB lighting to shine through. Conversely, the polycarbonate housing of the Silent Frozen (V2) is typically clear or semi-transparent, perfectly suited for RGB configurations that enhance visual appeal. This is especially relevant for gamers or users who appreciate a dynamic lighting setup with their keyboards. While both switches offer unique vibes, the visually striking nature of polycarbonate can serve as an additional aesthetic draw for those inclined to customize their keyboard's appearance.
Despite these differences, both switches can yield similar results for typists depending on personal preferences. If a user enjoys the deeper sound profile that the nylon housing provides, they may find the Keylin particularly satisfying. Meanwhile, those who favor the crisper sound of the polycarbonate might lean towards the Silent Frozen (V2). However, if a user enjoys tactile feedback combined with a clear auditory experience, either switch can serve their needs well despite the differing materials. This means that regardless of the material used, what ultimately matters is how the characteristics of each contribute to the user's overall typing feel and sound experience.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, both options are characterized by their light force specifications, although they exhibit some differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Keylin switch has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Silent Frozen (V2) features a slightly heavier actuation force of 39 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams. This means that while the Keylin has a marginally lighter actuation force, the Silent Frozen (V2) bottoms out with less resistance. For users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, the Keylin switch may be the better choice, but those who lean towards a more substantial typing experience might find the Silent Frozen (V2) more appealing due to its heavier actuation force despite its lower bottom out force. Overall, both switches are light, making them suitable for users who prioritize comfort over extended periods.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, we find that the Keylin exhibits a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Silent Frozen (V2) has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Keylin requires a bit more depth for actuation compared to the Silent Frozen (V2). If you're looking for a more responsive feel, the TTC's shorter travel distance may be preferable as it allows for quicker key presses, making it popular among gamers who prioritize swift response times. Conversely, the Keylin's slightly longer travel may provide a more satisfying and hearty depth for those who appreciate a bit of resistance in their key presses. Overall, the choice between these two switches ultimately hinges on personal preference for travel distance and tactile feedback.
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 TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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 offers a unique acoustic experience characterized by rich acoustics, likely contributing to a deep, satisfying thocky sound. This sound can provide a rewarding auditory feedback during typing that enhances the overall experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch is specifically designed to be exceptionally quiet, delivering a low-pitched, muted sound profile. This makes it particularly advantageous in environments where noise reduction is important, as it minimizes the typical clack associated with mechanical keyboards. While the Keylin creates an engaging auditory presence, the Silent Frozen (V2) ensures a peaceful typing atmosphere.
When it comes to feel, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch is known for its exceptional smoothness, which likely translates to a comfortable and responsive typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) provides a notably creamy and buttery feel, providing a silky typing sensation that can reduce finger fatigue during extended use. The Silent Frozen (V2) also embodies a feathery touch, requiring minimal effort to actuate while still maintaining a substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches aim for a high level of smoothness, but the Silent Frozen (V2) emphasizes ease of typing through its feathery and polished characteristics.
Considering all the available information, while both the Keygeek Keylin and TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switches deliver remarkable smoothness, their respective sound profiles set them apart significantly. The Keylin’s rich acoustics can be quite engaging, perfect for immersive typing, while the Silent Frozen (V2) prioritizes tranquility, making it an excellent choice for shared spaces. Ultimately, your preference may come down to whether you value an acoustic presence or a whisper-quiet experience. Each option provides a notable typing experience, suited to different typing environments and personal preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound, as well as your usage environment. If you prioritize a premium typing experience with rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness, the Keylin may be the way to go. Its light actuation force of 48 grams provides an enjoyable typing experience, making it suitable for many different tasks, whether you're gaming, coding, or just typing up documents. On the other hand, if you want a super smooth and quiet experience, especially in shared or noise-sensitive spaces, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) would be your best bet. With an even lighter bottom-out force of 43 grams and characterized by its creamy, buttery feel, this switch excels in providing a rapidly responsive typing experience without the loud sounds typical of mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, consider how each switch aligns with your particular typing style, the sounds you enjoy or want to avoid, and the environment in which you’ll be using your keyboard.
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