Keygeek Briny vs. TTC Brother

Overview

When it comes to enhancing your typing and gaming experience, choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch can make all the difference. On one hand, the Keygeek Briny linear switch is celebrated for its smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes and a balanced sound profile, thanks to its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing. This switch is perfect for those who prefer a quiet and fluid typing experience, often favored by gamers and typists who prioritize speed and minimal tactile feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Brother clicky switch offers a distinct auditory and tactile experience, with a lightweight actuation of just 37g and a satisfying crunch that clicky switch enthusiasts crave. Its pronounced tactile bump provides clear feedback without being overwhelming, making it a fantastic choice for users who enjoy the satisfying sound of each keystroke. Both switches cater to different preferences, whether you lean towards the smooth, stealthy feel of the Briny or the engaging, auditory delight of the Brother. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your individual needs.

By the numbers

Keygeek Briny Linear

TTC Brother Clicky

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$5.50

$3.30 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Keygeek Briny and the TTC Brother employ contrasting materials for their top housings, which directly influences the auditory experience of each switch. The Briny features a nylon top housing, known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer construction. This material's sound absorption qualities allow for a more rounded auditory experience, making it highly appealing for users seeking a warm and rich typing sound. In contrast, the TTC Brother utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate results in clearer resonance, making it a favorable option for someone interested in a brighter and more defined typing experience. This fundamental difference means that the two switches cater to distinctly different sound preferences, though both are proficient in delivering engaging typing experiences.

Interestingly, the bottom housings of both the Briny and the Brother share a commonality, as both utilize nylon. This shared material ensures that the typing experience remains consistent in terms of sound absorption and feel at the bottom-out point. With the nylon bottom housing present in both switches, the deeper and fuller characteristics are preserved when the key is fully pressed down. Thus, regardless of the contrasting materials at the top, users will experience a more subdued auditory profile as they reach the bottom of the keypress in both models. This consistency provides a sense of familiarity for users who appreciate the comforting sound that nylon brings, regardless of whether they are typing on the Briny or the Brother.

In summary, while the Keygeek Briny and TTC Brother diverge in their top housing materials—nylon vs. polycarbonate—their similarity in bottom housing creates a bridge between the two experiences. The nylon bottom housing mitigates the stark differences introduced by the top, thus ensuring that users will still enjoy a rich, full sound at the key's bottom-out stage. This design choice emphasizes the intricate balance that can be achieved through thoughtful material selection in switch construction. Ultimately, both models present unique auditory profiles while delivering a familiar feel at the bottom of the switch, showcasing the complexity and nuance of mechanical keyboard design.

Weight

The Keygeek Briny linear switch and the TTC Brother clicky switch present distinct differences in their actuation forces, which may appeal to varying user preferences. The Briny features a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the lighter 37 grams of the Brother switch. This means that users who favor a lighter touch may find the TTC Brother more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less force to actuate. However, the Briny's actuation force offers more resistance, which can provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Additionally, while the Briny has a clear bottom out force of 60 grams, the bottom out force for the Brother switch is unknown. As such, users may not be able to gauge how heavy the total actuation feels when fully pressed down on the Brother switch. Overall, if someone leans towards lighter switches for prolonged comfort, they should opt for the TTC Brother, while those seeking a firmer feedback would likely prefer the Keygeek Briny.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the TTC Brother clicky switch, the Briny offers a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it slightly longer than the Brother’s 3.5 mm distance. This means that if you prefer a more responsive feel, the Brother might cater to your needs better due to its shorter travel distance, making it potentially quicker in terms of actuation. Conversely, the Briny, with its longer travel distance, could provide a more tactile, hearty depth for those who favor a more substantial keypress. While both switches are relatively close in their travel distances, the Briny is the slightly longer option, which may appeal more to users who appreciate a deeper feel in their typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Keygeek Briny linear switch delivers a balanced audio profile that is typically described as smooth and subdued, creating a more muted typing experience that can be pleasing in quieter environments. In contrast, the TTC Brother clicky switch presents a notably crunchy sound signature, reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. Its clicky feedback generates a clear and crisp auditory experience that many enthusiasts cherish, making it more pronounced and lively compared to the Briny's more understated acoustics.

In terms of feel, the Briny switch remains somewhat undefined, but linear switches in general are known for their smooth key travel that lacks tactile feedback, allowing for uninterrupted keystrokes. Meanwhile, the TTC Brother clicky switch is characterized by an easy-to-press mechanism, requiring only a light actuation force of 37g, which minimizes the effort needed for each keystroke. It also incorporates a tactile bump that functions as a stepped switch. This design allows for distinct pre-travel and post-travel feel, making it comfortable and responsive while providing satisfying feedback without being overbearing.

Overall, the Keygeek Briny linear switch offers a smooth and muted typing experience that will appeal to those who prefer quieter, less tactile feedback. In contrast, the TTC Brother clicky switch stands out with its delightful crunchy sound and easy-to-press nature, making it ideal for users who enjoy a tactile audio alert with each keystroke. Depending on your typing preferences and whether you favor a linear or clicky switch, both options provide unique experiences tailored to different styles.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the TTC Brother clicky switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you enjoy a smooth and consistent typing experience, the Briny is an excellent option for you. With its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, it provides a balanced feel that can facilitate both typing and gaming without causing excessive fatigue. Its UPE stem and PA66 bottom housing contribute to a sound profile that combines subtlety with comfort, making it suitable for quieter environments where noise could be a concern. On the other hand, if you crave tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction during your typing sessions, the TTC Brother switch is likely the right choice for you. With a lightweight actuation force of just 37 grams, it allows for effortless key presses and delivers that satisfying crunchy sound signature that many enthusiasts love. The distinct tactile bump it provides enhances the overall typing experience, making it particularly enjoyable for those who prefer a pronounced feedback. So, consider what matters most to you—whether it be a smooth, quieter ride with the Briny or an engaging, clicky experience with the Brother—and make your switch selection accordingly.

Mentioned in this article

Keygeek Briny Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

TTC Brother Clicky

$5.50

$3.30 per 10

Learn more