Kailh Box Royal vs. Keygeek Briny

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, preferences can vary greatly based on typing style and individual taste. The Kailh Box Royal is renowned for its exceptionally sharp and tactile feedback, making it an ideal choice for those who crave a pronounced actuation point and an aggressive typing experience. With a higher-pitched sound profile, these switches deliver an exciting audible click that many typists and gamers find satisfying. On the other hand, the Keygeek Briny stands out as a linear switch, offering a smooth and uninterrupted keypress with no tactile bump. Constructed with a UPE stem and a pure PA66 bottom housing, the Briny provides a balanced sound profile, catering to users who appreciate a quieter, more fluid typing experience. Ultimately, the Kailh Box Royal is perfect for those who enjoy tactile sensations and sharp auditory feedback, while the Keygeek Briny suits those looking for seamless key engagement. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

Keygeek Briny Linear

$6.25 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the Kailh Box Royal and the Keygeek Briny switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, presenting a notable similarity in the materials employed. Nylon, known for its classic switch housing properties, has a unique ability to dampen sound and provide a deeper, fuller auditory profile when typing. This shared characteristic means that users can generally expect an analogous sound experience from both switches, as the nylon's softer composition helps to absorb sound waves, leading to a rounder and duller sound signature. The result is a pleasing auditory feedback that can enhance the typing experience, particularly for those who favor a quiet and subdued acoustic environment.

In terms of tactile feel, both switches benefit from their nylon housing, which influences how the switches respond to pressing and bottoming out. Despite being manufactured by different brands, the common use of nylon means that the overall feel during typing will remain consistent between the Kailh Box Royal and Keygeek Briny. Both switches are designed to minimize harsh impacts that often accompany harder plastic housings, leading to a more comfortable typing experience. Because the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, users can anticipate a smooth transition when pressing down on either switch, thus maintaining an enjoyable typing rhythm.

However, while the materials are the same, individual characteristics such as switch design, stem, and actuation force may still vary between the two offerings, ultimately affecting performance. The impact of these differences will primarily be felt in the detailed typing experience and personal preference rather than in the foundational sound dampening qualities provided by the nylon housing. Thus, while the Kailh Box Royal and Keygeek Briny may share the advantageous acoustical traits imparted by their nylon compositions, personal preference and specific tactile feedback may steer a user's choice between the two.

Weight

When comparing the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch to the Keygeek Briny linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Box Royal features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Briny requires a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams but bottoms out lighter at 60 grams, placing it in the medium range. Consequently, the Box Royal offers a lighter actuation with a heavier bottom-out feel, while the Briny provides a more balanced experience with less resistance felt at the bottom. For typists seeking a lighter touch during extended typing sessions, the Box Royal may be preferable due to its lower actuation force, while those who enjoy a firmer feel might gravitate toward the Briny. Overall, the differences indicate that each switch caters to distinct typing preferences, with the Box Royal being the lighter option in terms of actuation.

Travel distance

Both the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Keygeek Briny linear switch exhibit the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, which means that you will experience similar tactile feedback when pressing down on these keys. Since both switches have identical travel distances, users can expect comparable actuation feel and responsiveness, making either option suitable for those seeking uniformity in keypress experience. The equal travel distance enhances the consistency in typing or gaming scenarios, providing a cohesive feel regardless of which switch you choose.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the Kailh Box Royal tactiles and the Keygeek Briny linera switches, there is a distinct difference in the auditory experience they provide. The Box Royal benefits from a higher pitched sound, producing a sharp and crisp auditory feedback when pressed. This can cater to users who prefer a more pronounced auditory indication of their key presses without the richness or bassier tones that certain switches offer. On the other hand, the Briny's sound profile is described as balanced, which suggests a more neutral auditory experience that can complement a variety of environments without being overly dominant or intrusive. It’s important to note that the overall sound can still be affected by the keyboard’s construction and the keycaps used.

In terms of tactile feel, the Kailh Box Royal switches stand out with their remarkably sharp tactile feedback. They provide a strong and distinct tactile bump that gives a sense of assertiveness with each key press, appealing to those who enjoy a pronounced tactile experience. Conversely, the Keygeek Briny linear switches do not have a specified tactile quality, which generally indicates a smoother keypress without any tactile bump. This smoothness is characteristic of linear switches and they offer a gliding feel, making them quite different in performance than the Box Royals.

Taking into account the characteristics of both switches, the Kailh Box Royal are an excellent choice for users seeking aggressive tactile feedback and a prominent high-pitched sound. In contrast, the Keygeek Briny linear switch may appeal more to those who prefer a smoother and more balanced sound profile without that pronounced tactile response. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel; if you appreciate pronounced feedback, go for the Box Royals, but if you seek a smoother experience, the Brinys are worth considering.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Keygeek Briny linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing style. If you favor a pronounced tactile feedback that feels sharp and aggressive, the Box Royal is an excellent choice. Its higher bottom-out force of 70 grams makes it ideal for users who enjoy a firmer feel and a distinct tactile bump with every keypress, enhancing typing accuracy and providing a satisfying sensation with each stroke. This switch is particularly well-suited for those who appreciate high-pitched sound profiles and want a compelling auditory component to their typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, quieter typing experience with a more balanced sound, the Keygeek Briny linear switch is likely the better option. With a slightly lower bottom-out force of 60 grams, it allows for effortless keystrokes, making it a great choice for gaming or extended typing sessions where comfort and fluidity are paramount. In essence, opt for the Box Royal for a tactile and engaging feedback experience, while the Briny offers a more subdued and smooth alternative that caters to those who prioritize subtlety and ease of use.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

Keygeek Briny Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more