Keygeek Keylin vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keylin and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, both the Keygeek Keylin and the Durock White Lotus present distinct advantages tailored to different typing preferences. The Keylin, a linear switch renowned for its exceptional smoothness and rich acoustics, offers a premium typing experience that many enthusiasts crave. Its smooth keystroke with no tactile bump makes it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who prioritize fluidity and uninterrupted key presses. In contrast, the Durock White Lotus is a tactile switch designed for those who enjoy a subtle feedback sensation. With its delicate tactility, the White Lotus provides a balanced feel that is perfect for long typing sessions, ensuring users remain engaged without feeling overwhelmed. Furthermore, its innovative design allows for vibrant RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic touch to any keyboard setup. Each switch caters to different typing styles, making it essential to consider personal preferences and usage scenarios when choosing between them. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Keylin and the Durock White Lotus, one notable distinction lies in the composition of their top housings. The Keylin features a nylon top housing, a classic material known for its sound-dampening qualities. Typing on a switch with a nylon top often results in a deeper, fuller sound profile due to the softness of the material, which absorbs sound rather than transmitting it harshly. In contrast, the White Lotus utilizes a modified blend of polycarbonate (PC) and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UPE), which offers a unique and premium feel. While both materials contribute to a distinct typing experience, the nylon top housing emphasizes sound absorption, while the PC & UPE blend may provide a crisper response with a potentially sharper acoustic character.
Examining the bottom housings, both switches exhibit a convergence in their use of nylon, reinforcing the similarities between the two models. The Keylin's nylon bottom housing shares key characteristics with the White Lotus's nylon material—known for its ability to produce a deeper, rounder sound profile. This commonality suggests that, despite differences in top housing composition, both switches will provide a cohesive experience in terms of sound profile. With each switch encased in nylon at the bottom, users can expect a similar bottom-out sound and feel, enabling a satisfying keypress. This consistency allows the user to enjoy a familiar auditory experience regardless of the switch chosen.
Ultimately, while the Keygeek Keylin and Durock White Lotus exhibit different characteristics in their top housing materials, their shared nylon bottoms create a level of harmony in performance that heightens the user experience. The impact of the top housing on sound will vary, with the Keylin leaning towards a softer and more muted tonal output due to its nylon composition and design. In contrast, the Durock's premium PC & UPE blend may lend itself to a more pronounced sound signature. However, the synergy achieved through the nylon bottom housing in both switches will ensure that the overall typing experience remains consistent, allowing users to enjoy the benefits of each design while still experiencing the fidelity of sound that nylon is renowned for.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, a clear distinction emerges in terms of weight and typing experience. The Keylin switch features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it well-suited for extended typing sessions and gaming, as it minimizes strain on the fingers. In contrast, the Durock White Lotus has a heavier actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, offering a more pronounced tactile experience that some users might prefer for its substantial feel. Since both switches have varying actuation and bottom out forces, the Keylin can be categorized as the lighter option, while the White Lotus is the heavier switch. Thus, for individuals who seek a lighter typing experience, the Keygeek Keylin would be the more suitable choice, whereas the Durock White Lotus would appeal to those who appreciate a firmer push.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Keylin linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock White Lotus tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This variance means that the Keylin is the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that many gamers appreciate for quicker action. In contrast, the White Lotus, with its longer travel distance, may offer a more satisfying tactile response for those who enjoy a deeper key press. If you're looking for a quicker response, the Keylin may be the better choice, while the White Lotus may be preferable for those who appreciate a more pronounced switch experience. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance can significantly influence the typing experience, aligning with personal preferences for either speed or depth.
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 Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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 Keygeek Keylin linear switch is renowned for its rich acoustics that contribute to a premium typing experience. Unlike many linear switches that can sound hollow or muted, the Keylin produces a more full-bodied tone, enhancing the auditory feedback of each keystroke. In contrast, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch operates on a different sound profile, characterized by a low-pitched, bass-heavy tone paired with a neutral sound output. This makes the White Lotus suitable for various environments, from quiet office spaces to home settings. The sound from both switches can also be influenced by the keyboard’s build, as well as the type of keycaps used, but generally, users can expect a deeper and more resonant sound from the Keylin compared to the mellow neutrality of the White Lotus.
In terms of feel, the Keylin switch is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness, making every keystroke effortless, although specific details about the exact characteristics of its feel are not provided. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offers an easy-to-press experience with gentle resistance that requires minimal force to activate, significantly reducing finger fatigue during prolonged typing. The White Lotus also features a mild tactile bump, which helps to create a comfortable and approachable typing sensation that is suitable for users at all skill levels. Thus, while the Keylin may provide a premium smooth feel, the White Lotus excels in user-friendly typing ergonomics with its lighter actuation force and mild feedback.
In summary, both the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Keylin emphasizes rich acoustics and smoothness for an elevated typing experience, the White Lotus offers a subtler sound profile, lightweight actuation, and a tactile bump that appeals to those who favor comfort over assertiveness. Ultimately, both switches have their unique charm and strengths, enabling users to choose based on their priorities, be it sound, feel, or overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and usage habits. If you favor a lighter touch and are looking for an extremely smooth and noiseless typing experience, the Keylin is your best option. Its lower actuation force of 48 grams will allow for quick key presses with minimal fatigue, making it suitable for both gaming and high-speed typing. However, if you prefer some tactile feedback that enhances accuracy without being obtrusive, the White Lotus would serve you well. Its slightly heavier bottom out force of 56 grams ensures a satisfying but gentle tactile bump, perfect for those long typing sessions or focused work. The low-pitched sound and neutral tone of the White Lotus helps keep your typing environment serene, while its unique lighting features can add a personal touch to your setup. Ultimately, if you prioritize a streamlined typing experience, go with the Keylin; if you enjoy a mix of tactility and aesthetic appeal, the Durock White Lotus is the better choice.
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