Keygeek Briny vs. HMX EMO
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the HMX EMO switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Keygeek Briny and the HMX EMO both stand out as linear options that cater to distinctive preferences. The Briny is celebrated for its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, creating a well-balanced sound profile that appeals to users seeking subtlety and refinement in their keystrokes. In contrast, the HMX EMO switch boasts an exceptionally light 46g bottom-out force, resulting in a lively typing experience that feels both effortless and bouncy. While the Briny excels in producing a balanced auditory experience, the EMO is favored by those who prioritize a clacky and engaging feel during their typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on whether you lean towards the Briny's understated sophistication or the EMO's dynamic responsiveness; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on which switch is ideal for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
40g
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
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Briny and the HMX EMO, the most significant difference lies in the composition of their top housings. The Briny features a nylon top housing, while the EMO opts for polycarbonate. Nylon, as a softer plastic, produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, which is particularly beneficial for users who prefer a muted audio experience when typing. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the EMO offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound that intensifies the auditory feedback, thanks to its stiffer nature. This distinction in materials creates two distinct sound experiences; while the Briny allows for a more subdued typing noise, the EMO delivers a crisp and resonant sound that enhances the tactile allure of each keystroke.
On the other hand, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, making this aspect of their construction identical. This shared material results in a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile that affects the overall typing experience similarly for both switches' bottom-out feedback. The nylon bottom housing contributes to the overall aesthetic and sound absorption qualities of the switches, ultimately leading to a harmonious typing experience regardless of the top housing material. Consequently, while the top housings create different auditory impressions, users of both the Briny and EMO can expect a similar sensation when bottoming out the keys.
Overall, the different top housing materials contribute to a remarkable contrast in acoustics, while the shared nylon bottom housing brings a sense of cohesion between the two switches. The Briny’s nylon top provides a subdued, warmer sound, perfect for users seeking a more reserved audio feedback, whereas the EMO’s polycarbonate top creates a bright, resonant sound ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced impact. However, due to the commonality of the nylon in both bottom housings, the fundamental typing feel remains consistent across both models, ensuring users can appreciate the varied acoustics without sacrificing comfort or familiarity in their keystrokes.
Weight
The Keygeek Briny linear switch and the HMX EMO linear switch exhibit differences in both actuation force and bottom out force, which cater to distinct typing preferences. The Briny features a actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium option that provides a substantial feel while typing. In contrast, the EMO has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it more suitable for prolonged use due to its easier keystroke activation. As a result, users who favor a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions might prefer the EMO, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel will find the Briny more appealing. In summary, the Briny is the heavier switch, while the EMO is the lighter choice, leading to different user experiences based on individual typing preferences.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Briny linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX EMO linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Briny offers a more pronounced depth compared to the EMO, which may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial tactile feedback when pressing keys. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the EMO may be preferable for gamers seeking quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. Therefore, if you're leaning towards a switch with a heartier depth, the Briny would be the better choice, whereas the EMO would cater to those who favor a snappier feel during their gaming sessions. Overall, while both switches represent shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard, the Briny is the longer option at 3.6 mm, and the EMO is the shorter one at 3.5 mm.
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 EMO has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EMO for $2.79.
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 Keygeek Briny linear switch produces a balanced sound profile, making it an excellent choice for users who prefer a quieter typing experience without compromising on auditory feedback. The materials used, such as the UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, contribute to a well-rounded sound that can blend seamlessly into various environments. On the other hand, the HMX EMO switch is defined by its lively, clacky sound, which adds a distinct auditory character to the typing experience. This lively sound can be particularly pronounced depending on the choice of keyboard and keycap materials, allowing users to customize their acoustics further.
When it comes to feel, the Briny switch offers a more traditional linear switch experience, ensuring a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback or noticeable bump. This consistency in feel allows for fast, uninterrupted typing, ideal for those who seek a pure linear experience. Conversely, the HMX EMO switch is characterized by its feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing a bouncy and somewhat playful feel. The exceptional factory lubrication enhances this switch's overall smoothness, making it pleasant for users who enjoy a more responsive and textured typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Keygeek Briny and HMX EMO linear switches cater to different sound and feel preferences, both are crafted with quality materials that influence their performance. The Briny's balanced sound and smooth linear feel appeal to users seeking a more traditional, subdued typing experience, while the EMO's lively sound and responsive feel attract those wanting a bit more character and engagement in their typing. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences concerning sound and tactile experience, but both switches promise quality as a foundation for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Keygeek Briny and the HMX EMO linear switches, you'll want to consider your typing preferences and the overall experience you're looking to achieve. If you prefer a more balanced sound profile and a moderate actuation force of 60 grams, the Briny may be the ideal choice for you, especially if you enjoy a typing experience that feels more robust and controlled. This could be particularly appealing for tasks requiring precision, such as programming or gaming. On the other hand, if you desire a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of only 46 grams, the HMX EMO switch might be more suitable. Its exceptionally smooth and bouncy typing feel makes it great for those long typing sessions or if you're seeking a more effortless and playful engagement with your keyboard. Therefore, assess whether you prioritize a firmer typing experience or a feather-light, lively feedback, and let that guide your decision between these two switches.
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