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Keygeek Briny vs. TTC Flame Red

An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the TTC Flame Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Briny and the TTC Flame Red both offer unique experiences for typing enthusiasts, despite both being linear switches. The Briny, with its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, produces a balanced sound profile that appeals to users who prioritize a subtle auditory feedback and a smooth typing experience. Meanwhile, the TTC Flame Red stands out not just for its performance but also for its striking aesthetics, particularly its dazzling light diffuser, making it an excellent choice for those who want a visually stunning RGB setup. While the Briny is favored for its quieter operation suited for office environments, the Flame Red's weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile cater to users who enjoy a more pronounced audio experience in their typing. 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

45g

Bottom-out force

50g

Bottom-out force

54g

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Total travel

3.60 mm

Total travel

4.00 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

Nylon

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Mount type

Plate (3-pin)

Spring

20mm single-stage spring

Spring

24.5mm long spring

Housing materials

The housing materials used in the Keygeek Briny and the TTC Flame Red switches are notably similar, as both models employ nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material plays a significant role in shaping the acoustic and tactile characteristics of the switches. Since nylon is recognized for its durability and softness compared to other plastics, both switches are expected to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This commonality means that when typing on either switch, users can expect a desirable sound quality that is rounded and somewhat muffled, enhancing the overall typing experience.

The use of nylon in both models impacts the feel and sound in similar ways. Both the Briny and the Flame Red switches exhibit softer bottom-out feedback due to the absorbing qualities of nylon. When a key is pressed, the impact from the bottom housing—made of the same material—results in a consistent and pleasant sound that typists might find satisfying. Additionally, the nylon top housing in both switches will also contribute to the sound produced when a key is released, ensuring that the auditory experience remains cohesive across both the Briny and Flame Red. Therefore, despite any potential differences in other features, the nylon composition ensures that the core auditory qualities remain aligned.

In conclusion, the Keygeek Briny and TTC Flame Red switches are constructed from the same housing material, which means that they should deliver quite similar results regarding tactile feedback and sound profile. Users seeking a consistent experience will appreciate how both models leverage nylon to create a satisfying typing experience. Whether one opts for the Briny or the Flame Red, they can expect the same depth of sound and feel, making either choice a credible option for those valuing sound quality and tactile comfort in their keyboard switches.

Weight

When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, both switches provide a unique typing experience due to their differing actuation and bottom out forces. The Briny features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium force option. In contrast, the Flame Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. Thus, the TTC Flame Red switch is less taxing on the fingers during prolonged use, which can be advantageous for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, users who prefer a more substantial feel may gravitate towards the Briny, as its heavier forces provide a stronger push. Overall, while both switches have their strengths, the Briny is preferable for those who enjoy a firmer typing experience, whereas the Flame Red is suited for those seeking a lighter touch.

Travel distance

The Keygeek Briny linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Flame Red linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference of 0.4 mm makes the Briny the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times and a more immediate feedback when pressing keys. On the other hand, the Flame Red's longer travel distance offers a more traditional feel, providing a sense of depth that some users might prefer for a more satisfying keystroke experience. If you're looking for a switch that balances speed and depth, choosing the Flame Red might be better; however, if you favor a more responsive action, the Briny would be the ideal choice.

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 TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.

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 produces a balanced sound profile, which makes it pleasing for both casual and serious typists alike. The focus on a neutral tonal quality allows it to integrate well in various environments, making it suitable for both home and office settings. Conversely, the TTC Flame Red linear switch is characterized by a clacky sound profile. This difference brings a lively auditory experience, especially when typing, while the overall sound can still be considered manageable for shared spaces, given its mild nature. Both switches can vary in sound based on the keyboard and keycap combination you use, but the Briny's balanced profile ensures a consistently harmonious experience.

When it comes to feel, the Keygeek Briny is designed for smoothness and ease of actuation, allowing for a comfortable typing experience. The specifics of its tactile feedback aren't detailed, but it is implied that it provides a pleasing sensation as you type. On the other hand, the TTC Flame Red boasts a weighty smoothness complemented by a mild typing experience. Its polished design indicates an impressive finish with reduced friction, enhancing the overall experience. The Flame Red's characteristics make it approachable for both novice and experienced users, making typing feel gentle yet responsive. In contrast, the Briny's feel leans towards a straightforward linear experience without the added nuances.

In conclusion, both the Keygeek Briny and TTC Flame Red linear switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences. The Briny provides a balanced sound with a smooth typing sensation, while the Flame Red presents a clacky auditory profile, paired with weighty smoothness and a polished finish. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preferences for sound and feel, but either way, you'll achieve a high-quality typing journey with these well-regarded switches.

Conclusion

To sum up, choosing between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences for your typing experience. If you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force and value a more balanced sound profile, the Briny might be the right choice for you. Its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams gives a satisfying bit of resistance that some typists find more comfortable, especially if you’re doing a lot of typing or programming. On the other hand, if you desire a smoother, more lightweight feel with a visually stunning design, the Flame Red switch with its 54-gram bottom-out force and impressive light diffuser is likely the better option. Its neutral sound and mild, polished characteristics make it suitable for both new and experienced users, offering a gentle typing experience that is versatile for both work and leisure. Therefore, consider your typing style, the importance of aesthetics like backlighting, and how much resistance you prefer in your key switches when making your decision between these two excellent options.

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