Keygeek Briny vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 White
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right linear mechanical keyboard switch, the Keygeek Briny and Gateron G Pro 3.0 White are two compelling options that cater to different preferences. The Briny is celebrated for its balanced sound profile, featuring an UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, which collectively deliver a smooth and satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 White is designed with delicate typists in mind, boasting an incredibly light actuation force of just 38g that ensures effortless keystrokes. Not only does this switch allow for a responsive feel, but it also enhances RGB lighting with its frosted light diffuser, making it an attractive option for gamers and typists who appreciate bright visuals. While the Briny offers a refined sound profile perfect for a more subdued typing atmosphere, the G Pro 3.0 White excels in delivering a tactile feedback that many find enjoyable. 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Keygeek Briny and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White differ significantly in their top housing materials, with the Briny utilizing nylon and the G Pro 3.0 White employing polycarbonate. Nylon, as featured in the Briny, is known for its softer composition, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This material absorbs more sound due to its pliable structure, resulting in a rounder auditory experience. Conversely, the polycarbonate used in the G Pro 3.0 White's top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffer nature. This rigidity allows for greater resonance, making the typing experience distinctively different between the two switches. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency enhances the housing's visual appeal, especially for users interested in RGB lighting, as it can better diffuse and illuminate light.
Despite differing in the upper materials, both switches share nylon as their bottom housing component. This shared use of nylon in the bottom housing means that they will elicit a similar auditory response when bottoming out, as both will provide that characteristic deeper, fuller sound due to nylon's inherent material properties. The softer plastic of both bottom housings absorbs sound effectively, softening the impact and creating a more pleasant acoustic sensation when keys are fully pressed. Thus, while the top housing of each switch contributes differently to the overall sound profile due to the material choices, the shared nylon bottom ensures that the lower-end tonal quality remains relatively consistent across both models.
Ultimately, the performance and auditory characteristics of the Keygeek Briny and Gateron G Pro 3.0 White can be understood as a balance between their differing top and shared bottom housing materials. The Briny’s nylon top results in a subdued sound experience, while the G Pro 3.0 White offers a more pronounced auditory response from its polycarbonate top housing. However, the consistent factor of nylon in the lower housing ensures a unified experience regarding the feel and sound when bottoming out both switches. This unique combination illustrates how material selection in switch design plays a pivotal role in shaping user experiences, accommodating a range of auditory preferences while maintaining some similarities through shared components.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force arise. The Briny has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, classifying it as a medium switch, whereas the G Pro 3.0 White features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means the G Pro 3.0 White is easier to press, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, the Briny's heavier actuation and bottom out forces may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial feel and feedback while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference regarding the weight and feedback of the switches. The G Pro 3.0 White is the lighter option, while the Briny is the heavier switch, providing distinct typing experiences for different user preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, we see a notable difference. The Briny features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 White has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference positions the Briny as the shorter option, appealing to gamers and users who prioritize faster response times and a more responsive feel. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 White's longer travel distance might be favored by those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback and a less abrupt keypress. Ultimately, your preference between these switches will depend on whether you value speed and responsiveness or a deeper, more substantial feel when typing.
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 White has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 White for $3.27.
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 offers a balanced sound profile, making it versatile for different environments. Its construction with an UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing contributes to this equilibrium, allowing it to blend well in both quiet and loud settings. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White delivers a sound that can be characterized as clacky and crisp. The auditory feedback is medium-high pitched, which provides a satisfying percussive touch. However, this may be perceived differently depending on your keyboard setup, including the materials used for the board and keycaps. Overall, while both switches produce distinctive auditory experiences, the Briny leans toward a balanced tone, whereas the G Pro White has a brighter, more pronounced sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Briny's characteristics remain somewhat unknown, which leaves an open question about the tactile experience it provides. On the flip side, the G Pro 3.0 White is designed for unparalleled ease of use. The switch is creamy and feathery, delivering a buttery smooth typing experience that feels effortless. With an actuation force of just 38g, it allows for gentle key presses, reducing the risk of finger fatigue, particularly during marathon typing sessions. Its silky movement ensures that the keys glide under your fingers, enhancing overall comfort. As such, while the exact feel of the Briny isn't specified, users of the G Pro can expect a highly responsive and light-touch experience.
In summary, the Keygeek Briny linear switch is characterized by its balanced sound profile, though details about its feel are not available. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White excels in providing a clacky auditory feedback and an exceptionally smooth, light-feeling typing experience, making it ideal for beginners and budget-conscious users. While you might find similarities in sound characteristics and feel, there remains a distinction between the two in terms of auditory impact and tactile feedback. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a balanced sound or an effortless typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you desire a switch with a moderate actuation force of 60 grams, providing a balanced sound profile, the Briny might be more appealing. This makes it suitable for users who appreciate a perceptible resistance while still enjoying a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer something lighter and more effortless, the G Pro 3.0 White’s 45-gram actuation force will cater to your needs, especially if you’re someone who types for long hours or is sensitive to finger fatigue. The G Pro 3.0 also offers a clacky sound profile that could add a fun auditory feedback to your typing, contrasted by its more subdued and creamy feel, making it versatile for both gaming and office environments. Thus, choose the Briny for a structured typing feel with a satisfying sound and the G Pro 3.0 White for an ultra-light and comfortable typing experience that’s easy on the fingers. Your unique typist style and the context in which you'll use your keyboard will guide your decision between these two excellent switches.
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