Keygeek Keylin vs. Huano Strawberry Latte

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves drawn to the smooth feel and sound profile of linear switches. The Keygeek Keylin stands out with its premium typing experience, thanks to new molds that provide rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness. Ideal for those who prefer a quiet and fluid keystroke, Keylin switches promise an enjoyable typing experience without any tactile bumps. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte offers a similarly smooth action, but with a balanced sound profile that strikes an ideal middle ground; neither too quiet nor overly resonant. This makes it attractive for users who value a satisfying auditory feedback while maintaining the silky feel of a linear switch. Each switch has its unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, but the choice ultimately boils down to individual taste and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Keygeek Keylin Linear

Huano Strawberry Latte Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Keylin and the Huano Strawberry Latte, the distinctions between the top materials are significant while the bottom housings show a shared quality. The Keylin employs a nylon top housing, known for its softer plastic composition, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softness in nylon not only enhances the auditory experience but also leads to a unique tactile sensation when typing, as it absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte uses POK material for its top housing, boasting exceptional durability and a smooth typing experience due to its low coefficient of friction. This difference results in the Strawberry Latte producing a clackier sound profile and facilitating a distinctly smoother feel upon actuation.

On the other hand, both models feature nylon as their bottom housing material, creating a common ground in their acoustic characteristics. This similarity ensures that both switches elicit a deep and full sound on bottoming out due to the nylon’s innate properties. The phonetic qualities of the nylon bottom housing in each switch play a predominant role in the overall sound produced when the key is fully pressed down, lending to a well-rounded auditory feedback in both cases. Thus, regardless of the contrasting materials in their respective top housings, users can expect a consistent and rich bottom-out sound experience when using either switch.

Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in each switch leads to distinct yet complementary characteristics. The Keylin's nylon top contributes to its unique sound profile, resulting in a rounded auditory experience, while the Strawberry Latte’s POK top enhances both the sound and smoothness of the switch during operation. With both models utilizing a nylon bottom housing, the shared acoustic qualities unify their performance, creating an enjoyable typing feel and sound when bottoming out. Whether choosing the Keylin or the Strawberry Latte, users are likely to appreciate the thoughtful design that balances contrasting materials for a synchronized typing performance.

Weight

When comparing the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, both are on the lighter side, catering well to those who prefer a gentler typing experience. The Keylin has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Strawberry Latte offers an even lighter actuation force of 35 grams with a bottom out force of 45 grams. This indicates that the Huano Strawberry Latte is the lighter switch overall, providing slightly less resistance both when activating a keystroke and when bottoming out. Although both switches are relatively light, if you prefer typing for extended periods or engaging in long gaming sessions, the Keylin’s combined actuation and bottom out forces provide a slightly more pronounced push feel, whereas the Strawberry Latte would feel even lighter and require less effort. Ultimately, while both switches share a light profile, the Huano Strawberry Latte stands out for its lower actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch is identical, with both switches featuring a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on the keys of either switch, as the distance from the top to the bottom is the same. Consequently, whether using the Keylin or the Strawberry Latte, the key responsiveness and feeling during typing or gaming will be comparable, providing a unified experience in terms of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch is renowned for its rich acoustics, making it a great choice for those who appreciate a more vibrant audio profile while typing. The sound produced is likely to be captivating and full, which can enhance the typing experience, particularly for users who enjoy the auditory feedback of their switches. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch offers a balanced sound profile that strikes a middle ground; it is neither too silent nor overly resonant. This makes it suitable for users looking for a versatile sound experience that doesn’t draw too much attention while still remaining pleasantly audible.

When it comes to feel, the Keylin is known for delivering an exceptional smoothness, which enhances the typing experience by allowing the user's fingers to glide effortlessly across the switches. This smoothness can contribute to a more satisfying tactile response, especially during longer typing sessions. The Strawberry Latte, on the other hand, is characterized as being super smooth as well, thanks to the latest molds from Huano. This similarity in feel indicates that both switches prioritize a seamless experience, allowing users to enjoy equally fluid keystrokes.

In conclusion, both the Keygeek Keylin and Huano Strawberry Latte linear switches offer smooth feel and pleasing acoustic profiles, albeit with their unique nuances. The Keylin leans towards richer sound dynamics, while the Strawberry Latte focuses on a balanced tonal quality. Newcomers can expect a satisfying typing experience from either switch, and their choice may ultimately come down to preference regarding sound characteristics, as both provide exceptional smoothness in feel.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences for sound and feel in your mechanical keyboard experience. If you prioritize exceptional smoothness and rich acoustics, the Keylin switches are an excellent option. They deliver a premium typing experience, making them particularly suitable for those who enjoy a more refined and tactile feedback as they type. On the other hand, if you prefer a balanced sound profile that's neither too quiet nor overly resonant, and value the ultra-smooth feel of a switch, the Strawberry Latte may be more to your liking. With its slightly lighter actuation force and contemporary mold design, it also offers a pleasant typing sensation for fast typists or gamers who need quick responsiveness. Ultimately, by considering how you intend to use your keyboard—whether for heavy typing, gaming, or a mix of both—you can make an informed choice that best suits your needs and enhances your overall typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Keygeek Keylin Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Huano Strawberry Latte Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more