Keygeek Briny vs. TTC Gold Brown
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the TTC Gold Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the options can often feel overwhelming, especially when comparing the Keygeek Briny, a linear switch, and the TTC Gold Brown, a tactile switch. The Briny is celebrated for its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, which contribute to a balanced sound profile that many users appreciate for its smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown offers a tactile experience characterized by a subtle yet satisfying bump, providing just enough feedback to enhance typing accuracy without being intrusive. With a moderate weightiness and a rounded sound profile that remains pleasantly soft, the Gold Browns are ideal for those who appreciate a bit more tactile sensation in their typing experience. While both switches aim to create a balanced user experience, the choice ultimately hinges on whether you prefer the seamless action of a linear switch like the Briny or the tactile feedback of the Gold Brown. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Keygeek Briny and the TTC Gold Brown switches utilize different materials for their top housings, which significantly influences their respective sound profiles. The Briny features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound. Its softer texture enables it to absorb more sound waves, resulting in a duller and rounder acoustic character. In contrast, the Gold Brown opts for a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's rigidity. The choice of polycarbonate, especially when clear, allows light to pass through effectively, making these switches a popular choice for enthusiasts interested in RGB lighting aesthetics.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, both the Keygeek Briny and the TTC Gold Brown employ nylon, making this aspect of the switch construction uniform between the two. The nylon bottom housing plays a crucial role in absorbing sound and providing a more muted bottom-out experience, thus reinforcing that deep and plush sound profile. Since both switches share this same nylon material in their bottom housing, users can expect a similar tactile feel and sound when they press the keys down, contributing to a rounder auditory experience despite the contrasting top materials.
In summary, the distinction in top housing materials between the Keygeek Briny and the TTC Gold Brown leads to varied sound profiles during key release, while their shared nylon bottom housings ensure a consistent bottoming experience. The interplay of these materials ultimately defines the acoustic characteristics of each switch, where the Briny leans towards a warmer sound and the Gold Brown favors a more resonant tone. Users looking for a fuller sound will find harmony with the Briny, while those who prefer crispness will appreciate the Gold Brown, despite the shared sound properties of the nylon bottoms offering common ground in their overall performances.
Weight
The Keygeek Briny linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch exhibit notable 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 Gold Brown features a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. This means that the Briny switch is lighter, making it potentially more comfortable for extended typing sessions, such as during work or long gaming marathons. In contrast, the Gold Brown's heavier forces may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Overall, while both switches are considered medium in their weight category, the Briny is the lighter option, providing those who favor a gentler touch with a suitable choice.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, a clear distinction can be observed. The Briny has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gold Brown features a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Briny offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, as shorter distances often result in faster actuation. In contrast, the Gold Brown’s longer 4 mm travel distance provides a more pronounced keystroke that some users may prefer for a richer typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding responsiveness versus depth in keystrokes.
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 Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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
The sound characteristics of the Keygeek Briny linear switch are designed to provide a balanced audio profile, as enhanced by its UPE stem and PA66 bottom housing. This suggests a well-rounded auditory experience that isn't overly loud or pronounced, making it suitable for various environments. Meanwhile, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch presents a rounded sound profile that is notably softer than many other options. This gentle sound helps maintain a calm typing atmosphere while still providing enough auditory feedback to reassure the typist without overwhelming them.
When considering the feel of these switches, the Briny is likely to deliver a smooth and linear keystroke experience typical of linear switches, although specific descriptors for its feel are not detailed. In contrast, the Gold Brown is described with a variety of engaging characteristics. It offers a mild and buttery typing experience, which makes it approachable for users of all skill levels. The tactile bump of the Gold Brown adds a pleasant yet not overpowering sensation, allowing for a confident typing experience. Its polished nature suggests a refined key press, contributing to reduced friction and an overall smoother journey through the keystroke.
In summary, both the Keygeek Briny linear switch and TTC Gold Brown tactile switch offer unique advantages in their sound and feel profiles. The Briny emphasizes a balanced and serene audio experience, while the Gold Brown strikes a chord with its gentle tactile feedback and soft acoustics. For those seeking a satisfying typing experience, especially in a more social or professional setting, both switches can provide pleasing results. While the Briny offers a distinctive linear feel, the tactile nature of the Gold Brown introduces an interactive element that many typists enjoy. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer a linear feel or a tactile response in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, consider your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. If you prioritize a smooth and consistent keystroke without tactile bumps, you should lean towards the Briny. Its balanced sound profile and medium actuation force of 60 grams make it ideal for those who enjoy a linear response whether gaming or typing for extended periods. On the other hand, if you appreciate a slight tactile feedback in your typing experience, the Gold Brown is a fantastic choice. With a medium weight of 63 grams, it provides a satisfying, buttery feel and neutral sound profile that strikes a balance suitable for various tasks, making it approachable for both beginners and seasoned typists. Ultimately, your choice should reflect how you want your keyboard to sound and feel, ensuring it complements your typing style, whether you favor linear smoothness or tactile feedback.
Mentioned in this article
