Keygeek Briny vs. HMX FJ400

Overview

When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference significantly influences the user experience, and two compelling options are the Keygeek Briny and the HMX FJ400, both of which are linear switches. The Briny is distinguished by its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, resulting in a balanced sound profile that many typists and gamers appreciate for its smooth actuation and lack of tactile feedback. In contrast, the HMX FJ400 serves as the middle ground in the HMX Film switch lineup, also providing a balanced sound profile, but it is tailored for those who seek a blend of versatility and performance. While the Briny appeals to users looking for a smooth typing experience with minimal noise, the FJ400 is perfect for those who want a reliable switch that can handle varied tasks, from typing to gaming. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Keygeek Briny Linear

HMX FJ400 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When analyzing the housing materials of the Keygeek Briny and the HMX FJ400, a significant distinction emerges in their top housing compositions. The Briny employs a nylon top housing, known for its ability to deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile coupled with a softer touch. This quality is attributed to nylon's sound-absorbing characteristics, which result in a muted yet rounded auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the FJ400 utilizes a top housing made from POM (polyoxymethylene), a material that also produces a unique and satisfying sound but with notable differences. Though the POM contributes to a similarly deeper sound profile, it tends to yield a more muted tone compared to nylon, suggesting an overall acoustic experience that might vary between the two switches.

However, both the Keygeek Briny and the HMX FJ400 share a commonality in their bottom housing, as both models utilize nylon for this component. This congruence plays a pivotal role in shaping the overall sound and feel of each switch when bottomed out. The inherent qualities of nylon as a softer plastic mean that both switches will exhibit a similar deeper and fuller sound when pressed down. Therefore, despite the differences in top housing materials, the use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that a comparable auditory experience is achieved during key presses, allowing users to enjoy a consistent feel and sound quality when bottoming out.

In conclusion, while the top housings of the Keygeek Briny and HMX FJ400 exhibit differing materials—nylon versus POM—their shared nylon bottom housing guarantees a semblance of similarity in terms of auditory feedback and tactile response. This composite design means that the effects of each housing material will influence the overall switch experience in unique ways, but combined, they provide a harmonious balance. Users can expect deeper and fuller sounds across both models, with the top housing material contributing distinct qualities to the sound profile during key release. Ultimately, the combination of varied top housing materials with consistent bottom housings leads to a nuanced yet comparable typing experience in both keyboards.

Weight

The Keygeek Briny linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch offer a notable comparison in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches share the same actuation force of 50 grams, indicating that users will experience a similar keystroke trigger feel, making them equally responsive for typing or gaming. However, the bottom out force differs between the two: the Briny has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the FJ400 is slightly lighter at 58 grams. This means that while both switches provide a medium typing experience, the Briny requires a bit more force to fully depress the key, contributing to a more substantial feedback. Therefore, the FJ400 can be considered the lighter option overall, potentially suiting those who prefer less strain during extended typing sessions, whereas the Briny might appeal more to users seeking a firmer push feel.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch, the Briny measures at 3.6 mm while the FJ400 has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm positions the Briny as the shorter option, catering to those who favor quicker responsiveness in their keystrokes, which is often preferred by gamers. On the other hand, the FJ400's longer travel distance may appeal to users who appreciate a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes, offering a more substantial tactile feedback. While both switches provide a satisfying performance, the choice between them ultimately depends on whether one prioritizes speed or depth in their typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, both the Keygeek Briny and the HMX FJ400 linear switches are known for producing a balanced sound profile. The Briny, with its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, ensures a muted yet pleasing acoustic experience that many users find satisfying during typing or gaming sessions. Similarly, the FJ400, as part of the HMX Film switch lineup, also delivers a balanced sound profile that aligns closely with user preferences for clarity and mellowness. It’s important to note that the overall sound can vary depending on the keyboard chassis and keycap materials you choose, which could further enhance or dampen these balanced qualities.

When it comes to feel, the Briny switch is renowned for its smooth actuation and consistent performance, providing a fluid typing experience that many enthusiasts appreciate for long typing sessions. On the other hand, the FJ400 offers a similar tactile responsiveness, striking a commendable balance in its actuation force and travel distance that makes it approachable for both casual users and enthusiasts alike. While both switches emphasize smoothness and a satisfying action, personal preference for specific characteristics—such as actuation force—could sway users between one or the other.

Overall, both the Keygeek Briny and the HMX FJ400 linear switches present themselves as excellent options for those searching for a balanced acoustic profile and smooth feel. Users can expect comparable performance from both switches, making them suitable for a wide range of typing and gaming applications. The final choice may simply come down to personal preference regarding minor nuances in sound and feel, with both switches promising a high-quality experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Keygeek Briny and the HMX FJ400 linear switches, think about what aspects are most important for your typing or gaming experience. If you appreciate a balanced sound profile and the feel of a smooth linear switch with a slight tactile experience at the bottom, the Briny with its UPE stem and PA66 bottom housing would be an excellent choice. Its rounded character makes it suitable for both typing and gaming, providing a satisfying auditory feedback without being overly pronounced. On the other hand, if you're searching for a switch that serves as a reliable middle ground, the FJ400 offers a slightly lighter actuation force that may feel more effortless when typing. If you prefer a more neutral sound with solid performance, this switch could cater to a broader range of scenarios. Overall, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize the specific acoustic qualities and subtle feel of the Briny or the balanced versatility and ease of the FJ400. Consider trying both if possible, and choose the one that feels right for you!

Mentioned in this article

Keygeek Briny Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

HMX FJ400 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more