Keygeek Keylin vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keylin and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switches, both the Keygeek Keylin and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° stand out as impressive linear options that cater to different preferences. The Keylin, renowned for its use of new molds from Keygeek, offers a premium typing experience characterized by rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness. This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking tactile feedback coupled with auditory satisfaction, perfect for both gaming and typing enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° revolutionizes the concept of silent typing with its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure. This switch provides unparalleled smoothness and stability, along with a soft, elastic feel that effectively absorbs sound, catering to users who prefer a quieter environment, such as in office settings or shared spaces. While both switches excel in their unique attributes, the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Keylin and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, there are notable differences in their top housing compositions. The Keylin utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This results in a typing experience characterized by a duller and rounder tone, attributed to nylon's softer plastic properties that absorb sound effectively. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° features a polycarbonate top housing that generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate allows for a more resonant experience, making this material suitable for users who appreciate clarity in their typing sounds and aesthetics. Furthermore, polycarbonate's translucent nature enhances the visual aspects of RGB lighting setups, making it a preferred choice for those seeking a vibrant lighting experience in their mechanical keyboards.
On the other hand, both the Keygeek Keylin and Gateron Zero Degree 0° share the same nylon material for their bottom housings, which creates a more consistent typing experience. Nylon’s acoustic properties establish a deeper and fuller sound, ensuring that both switches produce a similar bottom-out sound and feel when pressed. This shared bottom housing material reinforces the emphasis on comfort and smoothness during usage, demonstrating that regardless of the differences in the top housing, the overall tactile feedback and sound produced during the "bottoming out" phase will exhibit similarity in both switches.
Ultimately, the sound characteristics imparted by both housing materials affect different aspects of the switch’s performance. The nylon bottom housing in both switches delivers a soft, warm sound, largely influencing the typing experience during key presses. In contrast, the distinct top materials—nylon in the Keylin and polycarbonate in the Zero Degree 0°—affect the sound profile upon key release, creating a contrasting auditory experience. Consequently, users of either switch will appreciate different auditory qualities while still enjoying a comparable tactile experience in the context of bottom-out sounds, effectively showcasing how the blend of materials can create unique yet harmonious mechanical keyboard experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, there is a notable distinction in their actuation forces. The Keylin switch has an actuation force of 38 grams, making it lighter and potentially more suitable for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams, which could provide a more substantial feel for users who prefer a heavier switch. However, one significant gap in information is that the bottom out force for the Zero Degree switch is unavailable, limiting our ability to fully compare how they perform when pressed all the way down. The bottom out force for the Keylin switch is 48 grams, indicating a clear measurement for that aspect of performance. Overall, the Keylin switch is the lighter option of the two, while the Gateron Zero Degree switch's somewhat unknown bottom out force leaves some questions unanswered about its overall feel and performance when bottoming out.
Travel distance
Both the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch have an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. As a result, users can expect similar tactile feedback and overall performance when pressing down on either key. This uniformity means that regardless of which switch is used, the experience will be consistent in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, providing a comparable feel for typing or gaming. Since both switches feature the same travel distance, there is no shorter or longer option between them.
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 Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° 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
The sound profile of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch is noted for its rich acoustics, which enhances the overall auditory experience during typing. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch features a unique self-padding design that minimizes noise, emphasizing a much quieter operation. This innovative construction allows it to excel in environments where sound reduction is essential, making it ideal for users seeking a more discreet typing experience. However, it’s important to note that the sound of any switch can also be influenced by additional factors such as the keyboard’s design and the choice of keycaps, so users should consider these elements when assessing their auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Keygeek Keylin switch offers exceptional smoothness, contributing to a luxurious typing experience that many typists appreciate. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch prioritizes softness and elasticity, providing a gentle, absorbent feel that enhances both comfort and stability. This dual-rail structure not only assures unmatched smoothness but also caters to users who prefer a softer touch while typing. While both switches deliver a tactile satisfaction, the Keylin is positioned for those who favor a premium experience, whereas the Zero Degree 0° is designed for users who value a softer typing sensation.
In conclusion, both the Keygeek Keylin and Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches present unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Keylin excels in providing rich sound and exceptional smoothness, appealing to those seeking a premium experience, while the Zero Degree 0° stands out with its silent operation and soft feel, perfect for quieter settings. Depending on your priorities—be it sound, feel, or overall typing comfort—either switch can deliver a satisfying experience, allowing you to choose based on your specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a switch that provides a light bottom-out force of 48 grams, along with a premium typing experience featuring rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness, the Keylin is an excellent choice. Its tactile feedback and satisfying sound profile make it ideal for those who enjoy a lively typing experience, whether for gaming or general use. On the other hand, if you seek a silent typing experience with a focus on reducing noise—perfect for office environments or shared workspace—the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is the way to go. Its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure deliver unparalleled smoothness and stability, making each key press feel effortless and cushioned. In the end, consider your priorities: the lively engagement of the Keylin versus the calming silence of the Zero Degree 0°, and choose the one that aligns best with your needs.
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