Keygeek Keylin vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keylin and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often comes down to personal preference and specific typing needs. The Keygeek Keylin switches stand out for their premium typing experience, offering exceptional smoothness and rich acoustics thanks to their innovative molds. This makes them an excellent option for users seeking a refined and enjoyable typing sensation. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red switches are also linear but provide a unique typing experience characterized by a pillowy light feel and a satisfyingly deep, bassy sound profile. This adds a layer of auditory pleasure to your keystrokes, making it a great option for those who appreciate a harmonious blend of sound and comfort. Both switches have their distinct advantages, catering to different user preferences; however, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
44g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The Keygeek Keylin and the KTT Wine Red switches showcase contrasting housing materials, which significantly influence their sound profiles and tactile characteristics. The Keylin utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which tends to produce a deeper and fuller sound. This is attributed to nylon's softer nature, enabling it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. As a result, typing on Keylin switches provides a satisfying experience characterized by a duller and rounder sound, appealing for users who prefer understated auditory feedback. Conversely, the KTT Wine Red switches are designed with polycarbonate housings on both the top and bottom, known for their stiffer composition. The rigidity of polycarbonate creates a sharper and more resonant sound profile, giving users a crisper and higher-pitched auditory feedback during use.
Despite the differences in material, both the Keylin and Wine Red switches embody distinct sound characteristics shaped by their housings. The nylon of the Keylin contributes to a unique sound experience where the impact is softer upon bottoming out, while the top housing's contribution is significant when the key is released. In contrast, the KTT Wine Red excels in providing clarity and brightness due to the polycarbonate's inherent qualities. While the Wine Red's response can feel more lively, it may lack the warmth that the Keylin delivers, creating different preferences based on the desired typing experience. Users looking for a richer sound may gravitate towards the Keylin, while those who prefer a sharper, more dynamic feedback would likely favor the KTT Wine Red.
Overall, the blending of housing materials in each switch leads to varied outcomes in typing experience and sound profile. The Keygeek Keylin’s reliance on nylon allows for a consistent performance marked by warmth and depth, while the KTT Wine Red's dual polycarbonate construction delivers bright and crisp responses. Even with different materials, if users want to achieve a unique sound, they can manipulate the arrangement or seek other compatible components to influence the final auditory output. Understanding the qualities of each housing material can help users select switches that align closely with their typing preferences and aesthetic desires, especially for setups that include RGB lighting, where the translucency of polycarbonate adds an additional visual appeal.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Keylin switch features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons, as it requires less effort to register keystrokes. In contrast, the KTT Wine Red switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 44 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial feel that some users may prefer for a firmer typing experience. Ultimately, those who favor a lighter touch will gravitate towards the Keylin switch, while those seeking a bit more resistance should consider the Wine Red switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, the Keylin has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Wine Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means that if you choose the Keylin switch, you will benefit from a more responsive action due to its shorter travel distance, which can be advantageous for fast-paced gaming. On the other hand, the Wine Red's 4 mm travel distance provides a more traditional typing experience with a deeper feel, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial key press. Ultimately, if you're looking for quick response times, the Keylin is the better option, whereas the Wine Red may be preferable for those who appreciate a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes.
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 KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71 per 10 switches.
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 switches are renowned for their rich acoustics, which contribute to a premium typing experience. While specific sound characteristics are not detailed, the focus on premium construction implies a distinct and pleasing auditory experience. In contrast, the KTT Wine Red linear switches create a notably deep and rich sound profile that is characterized as both bassy and low-pitched. This milder auditory feedback enhances the typing experience, providing a satisfying echo with each keystroke that can bring an immersive quality to the act of typing.
When it comes to feel, the Keylin linear switches boast exceptional smoothness, making them ideal for users who prioritize a seamless typing experience. While the precise tactile or resistance characteristics are not specified, the emphasis on smoothness suggests a light and fluid feel. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red switches are described as offering a pillowy light typing feel; this insight indicates a soft and cushioned experience, further enhancing comfort during extended typing sessions. Although not explicitly compared, both switches promise a pleasant and satisfying tactile experience.
Overall, both the Keygeek Keylin and KTT Wine Red linear switches cater to users seeking a refined typing experience, albeit with slightly different emphasis. The Keylin focuses on rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness, while the Wine Red stands out for its deep sound profile and cushioned feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and tactile experience, users may find one switch more appealing than the other, but both provide enjoyable options for anyone diving into the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preference regarding typing experience and sound. If you prefer a lighter key feel with a bottom-out force of 48 grams, the Keylin switch is an excellent choice, especially if you value a smooth and premium typing experience. The Keylin switches are perfect for those who prioritize quick and effortless key presses, making them ideal for fast typists or gamers looking for performance. On the other hand, if you find comfort in a slightly heavier typing experience with a bottom-out force of 55 grams, the KTT Wine Red would serve you well. The Wine Red switch offers a pillowy feel combined with a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile, making it great for those who appreciate a fuller auditory experience while typing. Ultimately, consider your typing style, whether you enjoy a lighter touch or a more tactile experience, and choose the switch that best aligns with your needs and preferences.
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