Keygeek Briny vs. Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the smooth, linear experience of the Keygeek Briny and the lively tactile feedback of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro. The Briny, with its unique UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, delivers a balanced sound profile, making it an ideal choice for users looking for a more muted, yet satisfying keystroke without the distraction of clicks or pops. This switch’s linear nature allows for uninterrupted key travel, perfect for fast-paced gaming or typing needs where speed and consistency reign supreme. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches offer a delightful auditory experience, characterized by a distinctive poppy and clacky sound combined with a creamy tactile feel. These switches are particularly well-suited for those who enjoy a more engaging typing experience with audible feedback, making them a fantastic option for casual gamers and typists alike who appreciate a lively interaction with their keyboard. Each switch has its merits, catering to different preferences—whether you prioritize a smooth operation or a rich auditory sensation. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Briny and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, one of the most notable distinctions lies in their top housings, which are made from nylon and polycarbonate, respectively. The Briny's nylon top housing is celebrated for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is largely due to nylon's softer characteristics, which help to absorb sound, creating a rounder and duller auditory experience. In contrast, the V3 Cream Blue Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that contributes a sharper, crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate allows for a more resonant sound that emphasizes higher frequencies, resulting in a distinctly different typing experience. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate housing has the added advantage of translucency, which enhances RGB lighting effects, making it an appealing choice for users who value visual customization.
While the top housings of the switches differ significantly in material and sound characteristics, their bottom housings offer a notable point of similarity. Both the Briny and the V3 Cream Blue Pro feature nylon bottom housings, which are known for providing that deeper, fuller sound profile associated with softer plastics. This consistency means that regardless of the top housing material, the overall sound experience won't stray too far from the rounded, muted tones produced by the nylon in the bottom. Consequently, when pressed, both switches maintain a certain level of acoustic continuity, as the influence of the nylon bottom housing contributes to the overall sound output.
When considering the overall typing experience between the two, it is essential to keep in mind how the different properties of the top and bottom housings interact. The top housing primarily influences the sound produced upon release, while the bottom housing impacts the feel and acoustics during the bottom-out. Therefore, while the Briny’s nylon and the V3 Cream Blue Pro’s polycarbonate contribute distinct auditory properties, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that some common elements exist between the two. This means players and typists can expect a nuanced but somewhat similar sonic experience, where the transition between the qualities of the top and bottom housings blends the two varied experiences into a coherent typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch to the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch, we can see distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Briny boasts an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Briny switch requires a stronger push, making it better suited for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the V3 Cream Blue Pro, being lighter at both actuation and bottom out forces, is more apt for prolonged typing sessions as it may reduce finger fatigue. Overall, those who favor a heavier switch should opt for the Briny, whereas the lighter V3 Cream Blue Pro is ideal for those who seek a softer typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Briny features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which provides a more substantial feel with a deeper press, ideal for those who appreciate a hearty depth in their keystrokes. In contrast, the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it a more responsive option that could be favored by gamers seeking quicker response times. Therefore, if a shallower travel distance aligns with your preferences, the V3 Cream Blue Pro would be the better choice, while those valuing a deeper key press may prefer the Keygeek Briny.
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 Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
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 recognized for its balanced sound profile, which delivers a more muted and smooth keystroke when compared to its tactile counterparts. This makes it suitable for users who prefer a quieter typing experience. Conversely, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch is known for its poppy and clacky sound, providing a delightful auditory feedback that many find satisfying. This distinction creates a clear contrast: if you enjoy audible alerts with each key press, the Cream Blue Pro will shine, while the Briny offers a subtler, more professional ambiance.
When it comes to feel, the Briny's characteristics are defined by a smooth linear action that allows for effortless key presses without the tactile bump. This results in a typing experience that is fluid and quiet, which can be ideal for gaming or extensive typing sessions where distraction is minimal. In contrast, the V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a medium tactile feedback, giving just enough of a bump to be satisfying without feeling overwhelming. The bouncy and snappy nature of the Cream Blue Pro means that each keystroke is accompanied by a lively sensation and prompt response, enhancing the tactile experience.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a switch that provides a calm, balanced auditory experience along with a smooth typing feel, the Keygeek Briny linear switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more engaging sound profile along with a tactile, responsive feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro would be the go-to option. Both switches cater to different preferences, but understanding these distinct qualities will help you choose the one that best fits your typing style and sound preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch really depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a balanced sound profile and are looking for a more traditional linear feel with a medium actuation force of 60 grams, the Briny switch may be your best option. This switch would be particularly suitable if you desire an unobtrusive typing experience, where stability and smooth key travel are essential for your workflow, making it ideal for professional use or long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lively, tactile typing experience enhanced by an audible feedback, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro would be the switch for you. With its medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams and the unique combination of a poppy, clacky sound profile paired with a bouncy and snappy feel, this switch is great for those who want motivation and feedback while gaming or typing for leisure. Ultimately, consider your typing environment and the kind of feel and sound you prefer to determine which switch will elevate your mechanical keyboard experience.
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