Keygeek Briny vs. TTC Flaming Purple
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the TTC Flaming Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When navigating the world of mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves deliberating between options that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Keygeek Briny and the TTC Flaming Purple stand out as two appealing linear switches, each offering distinct characteristics. The Briny is lauded for its balanced sound profile, thanks to its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, providing a smooth and satisfying keystroke experience. On the other hand, the TTC Flaming Purple is recognized for its resonant character, boasting a slightly bassier sound signature with a poppy undertone that adds a unique auditory element to each press. Moreover, its feathery feel, with a bottom-out force of just 47g, makes it an effortless choice for both casual typists and dedicated gamers looking for quick responses. While both switches cater to those seeking linear smoothness, they offer different auditory experiences and tactile sensations that might sway your decision. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
47g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Keygeek Briny and the TTC Flaming Purple, the differences in their top housing materials are quite pronounced. The Briny features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softer plastic nature, which absorbs sound effectively, leading to a duller and rounder typing experience. In contrast, the Flaming Purple utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that contrasts sharply with the nylon. Polycarbonate is a stiffer material that generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Thus, users can expect significantly different auditory experiences between the two switches when typing, with the Briny delivering a more muted sound and the Flaming Purple offering a brighter tone.
However, both the Briny and Flaming Purple share the same bottom housing material—nylon—resulting in a shared sound profile on that end. The nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound as well, meaning that while the top housings create distinct sound characteristics, the bottom housings align in their ability to create a similar auditory experience when the key bottoms out. This consistency in material for the lower half of the switches ensures that, despite the differences above, users won’t completely lose that rich sound profile they may appreciate, as the nylon continues to play a critical role in sound quality.
In summary, the combination of different top housings with the same bottom housing leads to unique yet complementary sound profiles in the Keygeek Briny and the TTC Flaming Purple. Depending on the preference of the user—whether they lean toward the richer, fuller tones produced by nylon or the sharper, crisper sound offered by polycarbonate—the switches provide a versatile range of tactile and auditory feedback. Ultimately, while there is a clear contrast in their top housing materials, the shared nylon bottom housing means that the deeper sound quality will resonate in both switches, allowing each to deliver a satisfying typing experience in their own right.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch, there are notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varying preferences among users. The Briny features a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which provides a more substantial typing experience that some users may prefer for its richer tactile feedback. In contrast, the Flaming Purple switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 47 grams, making it ideal for those who appreciate a more effortless keystroke, perfect for long typing sessions or gaming. Overall, if users favor lighter switches for endurance, the Flaming Purple would be the more suitable choice, while those seeking a firmer tactile experience might lean towards the Briny's medium resistance.
Travel distance
Both the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm, which means they provide a similar tactile experience when pressing down on a key. As a result, users can expect comparable actuation and feedback when using either switch. Since both switches have the same travel distance, this ensures a consistent performance across both options, allowing for a uniform typing experience that many users find desirable.
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 Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the Keygeek Briny linear switch delivers a balanced sound profile thanks to its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, making it suitable for those who prefer a more neutral auditory experience. In contrast, the TTC Flaming Purple switch stands out with its slightly bassier tone, which adds a unique poppy undertone to each keystroke. While the Briny offers a consistent auditory backdrop, the Flaming Purple's resonant character infuses a deeper richness during key presses. Ultimately, both switches can provide a relatively subdued sound, but the Flaming Purple introduces an engaging layer, especially for users seeking a more vibrant acoustic experience, though the overall sound will still be influenced by the keyboard and keycap choices.
In terms of feel, the TTC Flaming Purple signifies a standout choice, characterized by its feathery touch and low bottom-out force of just 47g, making it easy to press and enhancing comfort during prolonged use. This switch's light actuation ensures minimal resistance, reducing finger fatigue, which is particularly valuable for extended gaming or typing sessions. Although the qualitative feel of the Briny is not detailed, one can assume that the expected smooth actuation typical of linear switches may be present. Without specific descriptors for the Briny, it’s difficult to directly compare; however, if it aligns with the smooth and responsive experiences common to linear switches, users might still find a satisfying tactile feedback reminiscent of the Flaming Purple.
In conclusion, while the Keygeek Briny linear switch offers a balanced sound profile and likely a smooth typing experience, the TTC Flaming Purple excels with its resonant sound and exceptionally light typing feel. Both switches may cater to different preferences depending on whether one values a rich auditory experience or prioritizes effortless keystrokes. Users can expect a satisfying performance from both, though those who enjoy a bit more character in their sounds may gravitate towards the Flaming Purple, while those seeking neutrality may find the Briny equally compelling.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, which provides a balanced feel and less accidental key presses, the Briny might be your best bet. Its materials, including the UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, contribute to a balanced sound profile, making it a solid choice for quieter environments or professional settings where concentration is key. On the other hand, if you seek a light and effortless typing experience, the TTC Flaming Purple at 47 grams offers an incredibly feathery touch that minimizes finger fatigue during lengthy typing sessions, making it ideal for gamers or those who type extensively for work or study. Additionally, its resonant, bassy sound profile adds an engaging auditory character that many users find enjoyable. Overall, consider your typing habits, preferred sound qualities, and the amount of force you are comfortable exerting while choosing between these switches.
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