Keygeek Briny vs. HMX Cheese
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the HMX Cheese switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often grapple with a plethora of options, but two noteworthy linear switches worthy of consideration are the Keygeek Briny and the HMX Cheese. The Briny is celebrated for its balanced sound profile, thanks to its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, making it an excellent choice for users who seek a muted yet satisfying auditory experience. Conversely, the HMX Cheese switches stand out with their unparalleled smoothness and a distinctively clacky, poppy sound signature that offers a unique typing experience, especially appealing to those who enjoy a more lively feedback while typing. While both switches cater to linear switch enthusiasts, their sound characteristics and tactile qualities may sway preferences in different directions. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
Ly
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
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of both the Keygeek Briny and the HMX Cheese switches share a significant similarity, as both utilize nylon for both their top and bottom housings. This choice of material is essential in defining the auditory and tactile experience users will encounter when typing. Nylon, recognized as a classic switch housing material, is favored for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. This quality arises from nylon's relatively softer nature compared to harder plastics, which allows it to absorb a greater amount of sound, thereby producing a duller and rounder auditory character during keystrokes. As a result, both switches promise a similarly rich typing experience due to this shared use of nylon.
Comparing the specific housing components further demonstrates the uniformity between the Keygeek Briny and the HMX Cheese. Both switches feature nylon top and bottom housings that culminate in a consistent typing feedback. While the nature of the switch's sound is influenced by the type of material used, the mechanisms through which sound is produced also depend on the design of the housings. Since both the Briny and Cheese adhere closely to the same material characteristics, users can expect similar sound profiles regardless of whether they are engaging with either switch, as both are engineered to foster that deeper, more resonant sound associated with nylon.
Moreover, understanding the function of each housing in a switch reveals how nylon's qualities contribute to the overall performance of the Keygeek Briny and HMX Cheese. The bottom housing is more crucial in defining the bottom-out sound and feel experienced when the key is fully depressed, while the top housing influences the sound upon releasing the key. In both switches, the nylon composition will ensure that users enjoy a cohesive switch experience. The split characteristics brought forth by the top and bottom housings, while equally effective in achieving rich sound profiles, ultimately reinforce the advantages of using nylon, leading to a harmonized typing experience across both Keygeek and HMX products.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Briny features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating a medium level of resistance that some typists may prefer for a more substantial feel when typing. In contrast, the Cheese switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of only 46 grams, making it optimal for those who might favor a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or extended gaming. As a result, the Briny is the heavier option, offering a firmer push, while the Cheese is the lighter choice, providing an easier keystroke. This variance ensures that users can choose a switch that aligns with their typing preferences, whether they seek a heavier tactile experience or a more effortless keypress.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch, we find that they have slightly different specifications. The Briny switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cheese switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Briny switch has a longer travel distance, which may provide a more pronounced tactile experience for users who prefer a hearty depth in their keystrokes. In contrast, the Cheese switch, with its shorter travel distance, is likely to offer a quicker response time, making it more suitable for gamers who favor responsiveness. Overall, while both switches cater to different preferences, the slight difference in travel distance allows users to choose based on their desired typing or gaming experience—those who value depth may lean toward the Briny, while those seeking speed might opt for the Cheese.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Briny has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Briny for $3.29.
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.99.
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 Briny linear switch is known for producing a balanced sound profile, which typically results in a muted yet pleasant acoustics during typing. This characteristic makes it suitable for environments where noise levels need to be restrained. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese linear switch delivers a distinctive sound signature that is clacky, poppy, and crispy, offering a vibrant auditory experience that stands out even among other ultra-light switches. While the Briny emphasizes a more neutral sound, the Cheese caters to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback, which can significantly enhance the typing experience for many users.
When it comes to feel, the Briny switch offers a smooth typing experience, likely featuring the gliding sensation that many typists value when selecting a linear switch. The Cheese switch, however, is noted for its unparalleled smoothness and ultra-light action, making it feel almost effortless to press down. This can lead to rapid typing with little resistance, providing a different kind of tactile feedback that appeals to users who prefer feather-light switches. While both switches highlight a smooth experience, the Cheese takes it a step further by being lighter than about 90% of all switches on the market, which may be ideal for those seeking maximum ease in their keystrokes.
In summary, the Keygeek Briny and HMX Cheese switches cater to different preferences, specifically in their sound profile and typing feel. The Briny is favored for its balanced sound and smooth typing experience, making it a versatile choice for quieter settings. In contrast, the HMX Cheese stands out for its lively auditory characteristics and ultra-light feel, appealing to users who enjoy a more responsive switch. Ultimately, both switches emphasize smoothness, but the choice between them will depend on whether you prioritize a balanced sound experience or a lighter, more dynamic feel while typing.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and force sensitivity. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force that offers a balanced typing experience and a sound profile that is neither too loud nor too soft, then the Briny is likely your best bet. Its construction with an UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing ensures a pleasant sound and feel, making it a versatile option for both typing and gaming. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter touch and seek an ultra-smooth typing experience, the HMX Cheese switches are designed for you. With their notably light bottom-out force of just 46 grams, these switches allow for fast, effortless keystrokes and deliver a delightful clacky, poppy sound that distinguishes them from heavier alternatives. In essence, choose the Briny for a balanced and controlled typing feel, but opt for the Cheese if you crave rapid responsiveness and an engaging auditory experience.
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