Keygeek Briny vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Briny and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black stand out as two distinct linear options, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Keygeek Briny is celebrated for its balanced sound profile, thanks to its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, making it a great choice for users who prefer a smooth and quiet typing experience without sacrificing feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black is known as the heaviest linear switch in its series, featuring a 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force that delivers a more substantial feel, perfect for those who enjoy a tactile and weighty typing experience. Its medium-high pitch auditory profile and frosted light diffuser that enhances RGB lighting effects make the G Pro 3.0 Black not just functional, but visually appealing as well. While the Briny excels in producing a harmonious sound profile with a focus on quiet operation, the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more robust sensory experience for users who thrive on tactile feedback and vibrant aesthetics. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Briny and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black, notable differences emerge in both the top and bottom materials used. The Briny utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a traditional choice known for its ability to produce a deep and rounded sound profile. This property is attributed to nylon's softer composition, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, thereby moderating any high-pitched noises and creating a more muted auditory experience. Users typing on the Briny would generally experience a fuller and more bass-oriented sound when bottoming out.
In contrast, the top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black is crafted from a proprietary INK blend that diverges from the Briny's nylon material. This unique blend contributes to a pointed, high-pitched sound profile that many describe as clacky. While the G Pro 3.0 Black also features a POM bottom housing, which provides a more muted and deeper sound, it stands in stark contrast to the nylon's overall sound dampening qualities. This combination implies that while the G Pro 3.0 Black's top housing emphasizes sharper sounds, the deeper tones reside predominantly within its bottom housing, creating a distinct auditory experience in comparison to the Briny.
Ultimately, the differences in material between the two switches yield unique sound profiles that express themselves during different phases of typing. The nylon in the Briny, being consistent throughout, promotes a harmonious and cohesive sound, while the G Pro 3.0 Black demonstrates a split tone influenced by its hybrid housing materials. Users can expect different sensations while typing: the clacky peaks on the G Pro 3.0 Black versus the rounded sounds from the Briny. One may still achieve agreeable results by combining the qualities inherent in both switches, but the tactile and auditory experiences will inevitably reflect their respective housing materials, leading to distinct feeling at both bottom-out and release stages.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Briny has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a firmer key feel. While both switches are classified as medium and medium-heavy, respectively, the Briny’s lower force ratings highlight its accessibility for activities requiring long durations of use, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Black appeals to those seeking more tactile feedback and resistance. Overall, these differences suggest that each switch will cater to distinct preferences based on the user's typing style and comfort.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Briny switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Black has a travel distance of 4.0 mm. This makes the Briny the shorter switch, appealing to those who prefer a quicker response time that often benefits gamers. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black provides the longer travel distance, which may be more suitable for users seeking a more traditional feel and a deeper keystroke. Consequently, if you prefer a switch that offers less travel distance for enhanced responsiveness, the Briny would be the better choice, while those who favor a more substantial typing experience should opt for the G Pro 3.0 Black.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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 due to its unique construction with an UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing. This composition tends to create a more neutral acoustic experience, avoiding extreme peaks or valleys in tonal response. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black exhibits a more pronounced auditory characteristic with its medium-high pitch. It can be described as producing a combination of both clacky and subdued sounds, resulting in a sharp and snappy auditory feedback but without being overwhelmingly loud. Users might find the G Pro 3.0 Black's sound more engaging, although both switches will ultimately be influenced by external factors like the keyboard plate and keycap materials.
When considering the feel, the Briny is celebrated for its smooth typing experience, which encourages effortless navigation across the key surface. The specific descriptions may vary, but it is likely to offer a pleasant typing sensation that aligns well with linear switch expectations. Conversely, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black is characterized by its creamy and silky feel, delivering a buttery typing experience that glides effortlessly with minimal resistance. This combination of tactile smoothness, along with its subtle resistance, enhances the overall typing pleasure, making it particularly appealing for users who prefer a heavier switch that still maintains a comfortable typing experience.
In summary, both the Keygeek Briny and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switches bring distinct qualities to the table. The Briny provides a more balanced sound profile with a smooth feel, while the G Pro 3.0 Black impresses with its engaging auditory characteristics and a creamy, silky typing experience. Overall, if seamlessness and balance are your priorities, the Briny may be the better choice; if you desire a more substantial weight with an engaging sound, the G Pro 3.0 Black could be ideal. Ultimately, both can deliver satisfying performance, but the nuances distinguish them in practical applications.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black should hinge on your preferences regarding typing feel, sound profile, and the weight of the actuation. If you lean towards a medium bottom-out force for a more balanced typing experience, complemented by a subtle sound profile, the Briny would be a suitable option for you. It's particularly advantageous if you're looking for a typing experience that is gentle on the fingers while still delivering satisfactory auditory feedback, especially in shared environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced, medium-heavy bottom-out force that offers a substantial feel with the added benefits of a creamy and silky typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the ideal choice. Its clacky yet controlled sound profile and enhanced RGB compatibility make it a solid pick for both gamers and typists who enjoy a richer auditory and tactile experience. Ultimately, whether you prioritize a smooth typing sensation with softer auditory feedback or a more tactile and resonant experience, both switches present excellent options to suit your needs.
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