Keygeek Keylin vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keylin and the Gateron Weightlessness switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard, the type of switch can significantly influence your typing experience, and two popular options are the Keygeek Keylin and the Gateron Weightlessness. The Keylin, renowned for its innovative molds, provides a linear switch experience characterized by exceptional smoothness and rich acoustics, making it ideal for those who prefer a quiet, uninterrupted typing experience with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness switch offers a tactile feel that ranges from subtle to moderate, appealing to users who enjoy feedback with each keystroke, complemented by a balanced sound profile that enhances the tactile experience without being overly noisy. Each switch brings its own unique advantages, whether you prioritize smoothness and silence with the Keylin or tactile responsiveness with the Weightlessness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Keygeek Keylin and the Gateron Weightlessness switches are distinctly centered on nylon, providing consistent attributes in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback. Both switches feature nylon top and bottom housings, which lend to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's inherent properties. The use of nylon—a classic choice for keyboard switches—results in a softer texture compared to harder plastics, allowing these switches to absorb sound more efficiently. This absorption contributes to a duller and rounder auditory experience, regardless of the brand, suggesting that users can expect similar acoustic characteristics when typing on both the Keylin and Weightlessness switches.
While both the Keylin and Weightlessness employ nylon housing for both the top and bottom, the differing designs of the switches may still yield unique variations in tactile feedback, sensory response, and overall typing experience. The bottom housing is primarily responsible for the "bottom-out" feel and sound when a key is depressed completely, meaning that any variations in the switch mechanism or spring design could affect how each switch feels under pressure. Conversely, the top housing contributes significantly to the sound produced during release, which means user experience may differ when pressing and releasing keys. Therefore, even when utilizing the same nylon material, the overall performance of each switch may diverge based on additional factors beyond just housing.
In conclusion, while the Keykin and Weightlessness switches share identical housing materials—nylon in both top and bottom—they do offer users similar acoustic qualities and resonance. This makes them appealing for those seeking a softer typing experience with rich sound profiles. Nevertheless, if users are sensitive to the nuances of feel and acoustics, they may find subtle distinctions in performance based on the design and structure of each switch, ultimately leading to different practical outcomes despite the foundational similarities in materials.
Weight
The Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch offer distinct experiences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Keylin has a relatively light actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it well-suited for users who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for extended typing sessions with less fatigue. In contrast, the Weightlessness switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams, indicating a firmer push needed to register a keystroke. Additionally, the bottom out force for the Weightlessness switch is unknown, leaving it unclear how it compares in terms of depth feel. As a result, for users who favor a more substantial typing experience, the Gateron Weightlessness may be more appealing due to its heavier actuation force, while those who prioritize lighter switches for comfort during long periods of use should lean towards the Keylin.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, the Keylin has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Weightlessness has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Keylin provides a slightly deeper feel, which some users may prefer for a more substantial key press, while the Weightlessness caters to those who favor quicker response times typically associated with shorter travel distances. Thus, if you're seeking a balance between responsiveness and key depth, the Keylin would be the preferable option, whereas the Weightlessness might appeal to gamers or typists who enjoy a more immediate actuation. Overall, both switches offer unique experiences based on their travel distances, making the choice largely subjective to personal preference.
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 Gateron Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness for $5.50.
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 known for its rich acoustics, which contribute to a premium auditory experience when typing. Users often appreciate the refined sound profile that enhances their overall satisfaction with the switch. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch offers a sound that is balanced and complements its tactile feedback. While both switches can provide satisfying sound profiles, the experience can vary significantly depending on the keyboard's construction and the keycap material used.
When it comes to feel, the Keylin linear switch is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness, which translates to a very fluid typing experience, free from any bump or interruption. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a continuous, uninterrupted keystroke. Conversely, the Weightlessness switch provides a subtle to moderate tactile feedback, which gives users a physical indication of key activation without being overly pronounced. This tactile nature can create a more engaging typing experience for users who enjoy feeling their keystrokes without the distraction of noise or harsh bumps.
In conclusion, while both the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch offer unique auditory and tactile experiences, they cater to different preferences among typists. The Keylin excels in providing a smooth and acoustically rich experience, while the Weightlessness offers a balanced sound with a satisfying tactile feel. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on whether you prefer the silky smoothness of linear switches or the subtle tactile feedback provided by the Weightlessness switches, as well as how these qualities interact with your specific keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a lighter keypress and prefer a smooth, uninterrupted experience with rich acoustics, the Keylin switch may be the perfect choice for you. Its bottom-out force of 48 grams allows for quick strokes, making it ideal for gaming or fast typing situations where speed and efficiency are paramount. On the other hand, if you appreciate a tactile feel that offers subtle feedback without being overly pronounced, the Gateron Weightlessness switch would be well-suited for your needs. Its balanced sound profile complements the moderate tactile feedback, providing a satisfying sensation upon actuation—ideal for those who enjoy a bit of a tactile bump during typing sessions. Therefore, consider what aspects are most important to you: smoothness and lightness with the Keylin or the gentle tactile response of the Weightlessness. This understanding will guide you in selecting the switch that best enhances your typing experience.
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