Keygeek Briny vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Keygeek Briny and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown present compelling options, each catering to different preferences and typing experiences. The Briny, classified as a linear switch, is designed with a UPE stem and a pure PA66 bottom housing, which together create a balanced sound profile that can appeal to those seeking a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke. This makes the Briny an excellent choice for gamers and typists alike who appreciate rapid key presses without tactile feedback interrupting their flow. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown, a tactile switch, offers a delightful sensation with its subtle bump that provides just enough feedback to enhance your typing experience while maintaining a quiet operation. With its frosted light diffuser, this switch also ensures vibrant RGB lighting, adding a visual flair to your setup. While the Briny allows for swift, linear typing, the G Pro Brown strikes a balance between tactile responsiveness and quiet performance, making it suitable for a variety of environments. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
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
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Briny and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown, notable differences emerge in their top housing compositions. The Briny features a nylon top housing, renowned for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic is attributed to nylon's softer plastic nature, which effectively absorbs sound and results in a mellower, rounder acoustic quality. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Brown employs a polycarbonate top housing, known for generating a sharper and crisper sound profile. With polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, it fosters a clearer and more resonant auditory experience. Consequently, while both housing materials serve the function of enclosing the switch mechanisms, they yield distinct acoustic results that cater to different user preferences.
The bottom housing of both switches, however, showcases a similarity in material choice. Both the Briny and the G Pro 3.0 Brown feature nylon in their bottom housings. This shared composition reinforces the production of a deeper and fuller sound profile during key presses. As nylon is adept at sound absorption, both switches exhibit a rounder, more subdued auditory feedback when bottoming out. This consistency in material choice means that users of either keyboard can expect a similar tactile and auditory output when engaging the switch, emphasizing that the bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall sound quality during operation.
Ultimately, the combination of diverse materials used in the top housing and the similarity in the bottom housing leads to a unique acoustic experience for each switch. The G Pro 3.0 Brown’s higher-pitched response due to its polycarbonate top contrasts with the Briny's fuller, deeper sound derived from its nylon top. Yet, when users press down on either switch, the similarities in their nylon bottom housing ensure that the bottom-out sound and feel are closely aligned. Thus, while the overall experience varies due to the differing top housings, the consistent bottom housing leads to similarities in tactile feedback, demonstrating how housing materials contribute to the nuanced sound profiles of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, we find some similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Briny has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown has slightly higher values with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. This means that the Briny switch is lighter than the G Pro 3.0 Brown, which would be advantageous for users who prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Brown's heavier actuation and bottom out forces offer a more substantial feel, appealing to those who enjoy a stronger tactile feedback while typing. Overall, while both switches are in the medium range, the Keygeek Briny is on the lighter side, and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown is the heavier option.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, there is a notable difference. The Briny has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Briny switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, catering to those who prefer quicker, more responsive key presses, which can be beneficial for gamers seeking faster reaction times. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 Brown's 4 mm travel distance may appeal to users who appreciate a more substantial depth and tactile feedback when typing, which could feel less abrupt compared to the shorter travel of the Briny. Therefore, if responsiveness is your priority, the Briny is your go-to option, while those who enjoy a more traditional feel might lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Brown.
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 Brown 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 Brown 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 thanks to its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a more neutral auditory experience. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown, on the other hand, offers a medium-high pitch that delivers satisfying auditory feedback. This switch enhances the typing experience by providing a delightful auditory sensation without being overly loud or disruptive, and both switches can have their sound characteristics influenced by factors such as the keyboard build and keycap choice.
When it comes to feel, the Briny linear switch is known for its smooth keypress with no tactile bump, offering a seamless typing experience. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Brown features a gentle tactile bump that is considered easy to press, making it comfortable and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The tactile nature of the G Pro Brown adds a pleasant response without overwhelming the typist, and its stepped switch characteristics give users a clearer division of travel stages compared to the more uniform feel of the Briny.
In summary, while both the Keygeek Briny and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches cater to different typing preferences, they each offer a unique blend of sound and feel. The Briny's balanced sound and smooth linear action provide a minimalist experience, while the G Pro Brown's tactile bump and satisfying auditory feedback cater to those who enjoy a little extra engagement while typing. Whether you prefer a linear switch for a quiet, fluid experience or a tactile feel for enhanced feedback, either choice can lead to satisfying results, depending on your specific typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a smooth and muted typing experience, the Briny's balanced sound profile and medium actuation force make it an excellent choice for those who enjoy uninterrupted keystrokes, particularly if you're a gamer or a typist who values speed and fluidity over tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you appreciate a subtle tactile sensation while typing, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch provides a gentle bump without overwhelming your flow, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions where you seek comfort and the added satisfaction of auditory feedback. Additionally, its frosted light diffuser ensures your RGB lighting is vibrant, enhancing your overall setup. Ultimately, consider your typing style and whether you lean more towards a linear feel or a tactile experience, as this will guide your decision between these two compelling options.
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