Keygeek Keylin vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keylin and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Keylin and the TTC Yunhai offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences among typists. The Keylin is celebrated for its premium typing experience, characterized by rich acoustics and remarkable smoothness, thanks to the innovative molds used by Keygeek. This switch is ideal for users seeking a satisfying tactile feedback combined with a consistent stroke. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai switches provide a unique typing experience with their deep, rounded sound profile and impressively light actuation force, making them perfect for those who enjoy a gentle, effortless feel while typing. While both switches excel in delivering a linear response, the Keylin emphasizes a luxurious touch, whereas the Yunhai focuses on ease of use. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Keygeek Keylin and the TTC Yunhai are notable for their use of nylon in both the top and bottom switch housings, a material commonly recognized for its acoustic properties. Both models leverage nylon's unique characteristics to deliver a deeper, fuller sound profile during typing. This is largely due to the material's softness, which helps absorb more sound vibrations compared to harder plastics. As a result, users of either switch can expect a substantial noise dampening effect that contributes to a pronounced, rounder acoustic experience. This shared housing material effectively means that both switches will produce similar auditory outcomes when engaged, making them appealing choices for sound-sensitive users.
Further emphasizing the similarities, both the Keylin and Yunhai contain nylon housings that play complementary roles in shaping the overall typing experience. With both the top and bottom housings composed of nylon, the qualities attributed to each part meld seamlessly to create a cohesive feel and sound when pressing the keys. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback when a key is fully engaged, while the top housing affects the sound and feel of returning to the neutral position. The consistency of material across both sections allows for a harmonious interplay of acoustic tones, ensuring that users experience a uniform response whether typing or releasing keys.
Although both the Keygeek Keylin and the TTC Yunhai utilize identical materials in their constructions, the overall tactile and auditory performance can still vary based on design intricacies and switch mechanics. For instance, even if both switches utilize nylon, minute differences in weight, spring force, or switch geometry may lead to variations in how these characteristics manifest during use. However, given that both types employ nylon for their housings, we can expect the overall experience—the sound, feel, and acoustic dampening effect—to bear remarkable similarities, making either choice appealing for users prioritizing smooth and muted typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, both switches are relatively light in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, but there are some differences to note. The Keylin switch has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Yunhai switch features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Keylin switch requires slightly less force to trigger a keystroke, making it a better option for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Yunhai switch, being marginally heavier in both actuation and bottom out forces, may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Overall, while both switches are on the lighter side, the Keylin provides a softer feel with lower forces, whereas the Yunhai delivers a slight increase in resistance, catering to different user preferences.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch both feature an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. As a result, both switches provide a similar tactile experience when pressed, allowing users to expect the same level of key actuation and feedback. With this equal travel distance, typists and gamers can anticipate similar performance characteristics, regardless of which switch is chosen, ensuring a consistent feel across both options.
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 Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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 switch is renowned for its rich acoustics that contribute to a premium typing experience. This sound quality is complemented by the new molds used in the switch's design, which enhance the overall auditory feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai switch features a deep, rounded sound profile that sets it apart, creating a unique auditory experience while typing. The lighter actuation force may result in a slightly different tonal quality, but both switches deliver pleasing sound characteristics that can be influenced further by the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When considering the feel of these switches, the Keylin is praised for its exceptional smoothness, making it a delightful option for those who prioritize a seamless typing experience. Meanwhile, the Yunhai is known for its incredibly light actuation force, which offers a gentle and effortless feel when typing. This difference in actuation force can significantly affect user preference, with the Keylin appealing to those looking for a standard linear experience and the Yunhai catering to individuals who desire a more relaxed typing effort.
Overall, both the Keygeek Keylin and TTC Yunhai linear switches offer delightful auditory and tactile experiences, albeit with unique characteristics. Users will find the Keylin’s rich acoustic profile and smooth feel can provide a luxurious typing experience, while the Yunhai’s deep sound and light actuation create a distinctive appeal, particularly for those who prefer a less forceful touch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference, as each offers its own advantages that can cater to different styles of typing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, consider your personal preferences and typing style. The Keylin is an excellent choice if you prioritize a premium typing experience characterized by rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness. Its lighter bottom-out force of 48 grams can make long typing sessions feel less taxing, especially if you enjoy the tactile sensation of a smooth keypress. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique auditory experience alongside a gentle touch, the TTC Yunhai, with its slightly heavier bottom-out force of 50 grams, may be more appealing. Its deep, rounded sound profile and effortless feel make it ideal for those who favor a quieter atmosphere without compromising on comfort. Ultimately, both switches offer great qualities, but your decision should hinge on whether you value crisp smoothness or a more immersive acoustic experience during your typing sessions.
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