Keygeek Keylin vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keylin and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Keylin and the TTC Speed Silver are two prominent options that cater to distinct user preferences. The Keylin linear switch, recognized for its new molds from Keygeek, offers a premium typing experience characterized by rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness, making it a great choice for typists who appreciate a luxurious feel with each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver is designed for speed enthusiasts, featuring a light to medium resistance level and a reduced travel distance that allows for quick and precise actuation—ideal for gamers and fast typists alike who prioritize response time. While the Keylin shines in providing a satisfying auditory and tactile experience, the Speed Silver excels in delivering efficiency and swiftness in typing. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Keylin and the TTC Speed Silver, significant differences emerge in their top housing that affect the overall sound profile. The Keylin utilizes a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. This material absorbs sound more effectively, leading to a sound profile that is less sharp, creating a rounded auditory experience. In contrast, the Speed Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and consequently yields a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Polycarbonate's rigidity allows for greater resonance, resulting in a cleaner and crisper sound overall. For users who prioritize a specific sound profile, this distinction will influence their choice, as the materials directly affect the auditory feedback of each switch.
Conversely, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing, which uses nylon in both the Keylin and Speed Silver. This uniform material choice means that regardless of the top housing differences, the bottom-out sound and feel will remain consistent. As nylon is effective in absorbing sound, the bottom housing will contribute to a duller audio experience when keys are fully pressed down. This similarity helps to balance out the contrasting effects of their respective top housings, allowing even users who prefer the sharper sound of the Speed Silver to experience a more rounded bottom-out sound. Thus, the tactile experience is integrally tied to this shared bottom housing.
In summary, while the Keygeek Keylin and TTC Speed Silver switches differ markedly in their top housing materials, their identical nylon bottom housings ensure that certain auditory qualities remain consistent. The unique sound profiles created by the top housings cater to different preferences: the Keylin offers a softer, fuller sound, while the Speed Silver provides a sharper one. However, these distinctive top materials are countered by the common bottom materials, allowing users to experience a consistent bottom-out feel across both switches. This interplay ensures a diverse range of auditory preferences can be met while maintaining some unity in the typing experience.
Weight
The Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch differ notably in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Keylin switch features an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it lighter and ideal for prolonged typing or gaming sessions where less fatigue is desired. In contrast, the Speed Silver switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which positions it as a medium-light switch. This means that users who prefer a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Speed Silver, as it provides a firmer push feel. Overall, the Keylin's lighter actuation and bottom out forces allow for easier keystrokes and less effort required during use, while the Speed Silver caters to those who enjoy a bit more resistance and feedback when typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it is clear that they differ slightly. The Keylin has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Speed Silver measures at 3.4 mm. This means that the Speed Silver offers the shorter travel distance, appealing to gamers and those seeking quicker response times, whereas the Keylin provides a longer travel distance which might feel more substantial and less abrupt for users who prefer a deeper keystroke. If you are looking for a switch that feels more responsive, the TTC Speed Silver would be the better choice, while the Keylin suits those who appreciate a more pronounced 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 TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 Keylin linear switch offers rich acoustics that elevate the typing experience. This implies a more robust audio character, which can provide a satisfying auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver switch is characterized by a neutral sound profile, presenting a moderate actuation force requirement. This makes it versatile for various environments, making it suitable whether you're a beginner or an experienced user, and ideally suited for both home and office uses. While both switches provide auditory feedback, the Keylin's richer sound could be more appealing to those who enjoy an engaging acoustic environment, while the Speed Silver’s neutrality keeps things discreet and unobtrusive.
Regarding feel, the Keylin linear switch is lauded for its exceptional smoothness, suggesting a high degree of refinement in its tactile experience. Users can expect a velvety key press that should enhance overall typing satisfaction. On the other hand, TTC Speed Silver switches are described as having a mild feel—with a gentle typing experience—and are also considered polished, indicating an ultra-smooth keystroke due to either superior materials or effective factory lubrication. This combination results in reduced friction and a sleek key travel, making both switches easy to press and ideal for rapid typing. The Keylin will likely offer a more indulgent experience due to its premium characteristics, while the Speed Silver focuses on speed and subtlety, making it approachable for a wide range of users.
In conclusion, both the Keygeek Keylin and TTC Speed Silver linear switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Keylin excels in acoustics and an extraordinarily smooth typing experience, appealing to those who prioritize richness in sound and feel. Conversely, the Speed Silver offers a more neutral sound and a gently polished touch that caters to speed and versatility, making it an excellent option for fast typists. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value a more immersive typing experience or a swift, discreet performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch ultimately depends on your personal typing style and preferences. If you prefer a lighter switch that emphasizes a rich acoustic experience and exceptional smoothness, then the Keylin is likely the better choice for you. This switch, with its bottom-out force of just 48 grams, is designed to deliver a premium typing experience that many enjoy for leisure typing or casual gaming. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that offers a faster and more precise typing experience, particularly for competitive gaming or fast-paced work, the TTC Speed Silver is ideal. With a slightly higher bottom-out force of 55 grams and a reduced travel distance, it provides a quicker actuation, allowing for rapid key presses without excessive effort. The Speed Silver's neutral sound profile and mild yet polished feel make it versatile for use in any environment, whether at home or in the office. Ultimately, your decision should align with how you intend to use your keyboard, so consider your typing habits and future needs carefully before making your selection.
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