Keygeek Briny vs. HMX Gravel
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the HMX Gravel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Briny and HMX Gravel are two intriguing linear options that cater to different preferences among typists and gamers. The Briny boasts an UPE stem and a pure PA66 bottom housing, producing a balanced sound profile that strikes a harmonious chord between tactile feedback and acoustic performance. Its robust construction makes it a solid choice for those seeking durability without sacrificing sound quality. On the other hand, the HMX Gravel is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing feel, designed for enthusiasts who appreciate a medium-light actuation force that allows for a responsive and effortless experience. This makes the Gravel a fantastic option for users who prioritize a fluid typing performance and a comfortable workload. Both switches offer unique benefits that might appeal to different users; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that meets your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Keygeek Briny and the HMX Gravel switches present a fascinating contrast in sound profiles and aesthetics. The Briny utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a material renowned for its ability to absorb sound due to its softer composition. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile, providing a rounder auditory experience that many typists find pleasing. Conversely, the Gravel's top housing features polycarbonate, known for its sturdiness and clarity, which contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound. This distinction between the two switch designs highlights the impact of materials on overall performance, illustrating how the choice can significantly alter the typing experience.
While the top housings of the Briny and Gravel differ markedly—nylon vs. polycarbonate—the bottom housings present an interesting similarity. Both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, which means they share the deeper sound characteristics when the key is bottomed out. This commonality in the bottom housing design suggests that, regardless of the material differences in the top hosing, the typing experience will feature a unified sound profile during key presses, driven by the softness of the nylon. Thus, while the top housings alter the overall acoustic signature during key releases, the shared nylon bottoms ensure a grounded, consistent experience during key presses.
Ultimately, the distinction in the top housing materials leads to unique sound profiles in each switch while their combined use of nylon for the bottom housing maintains a level of coherence across their performance. Users can expect a rich, full sound while typing on the Briny, thanks to its consistent nylon composition, while the Gravel offers a more elevated auditory experience, particularly noticeable with RGB lighting. The interplay between the different materials exemplifies how housing design can be tailored to achieve specific acoustic outcomes in mechanical switches without sacrificing a cohesive feel in their operation.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Briny features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which positions it in the medium range, offering a solid feel for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Gravel has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, appealing to those who favor a lighter touch, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. As a result, the Gravel is the lighter option, whereas the Briny is heavier. Users might find the lighter Gravel easier on their fingers during long periods of use, while the stronger force of the Briny could provide a sense of feedback and control valued by others. Overall, while both switches serve different preferences, they highlight the balance between comfort and tactile experience in keyboard design.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch, we find that the Briny has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gravel measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This makes the Briny the longer option, offering a bit more depth in the key press compared to the Gravel. For users who appreciate a more responsive feel, the Gravel's shorter travel distance may be preferable, allowing for quicker actuation. However, those who favor a deeper, more deliberate key press might lean towards the Briny for its added 0.1 mm. Overall, while the differences are minimal, they cater to varying preferences in key feel and response times.
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 HMX Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel for $2.99.
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 Keygeek Briny linear switch produces a balanced sound profile, characterized by a pleasant tone that is not overly loud or muted, making it suitable for various environments, from quiet offices to home setups. Its construction, featuring a UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, contributes to this balanced sound, ensuring that key presses are heard without being intrusive. Meanwhile, the HMX Gravel switch is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth operation, which hints at a refined auditory experience during typing. However, without detailed specifications on its sound profile, it remains unclear how its acoustics compare directly to the Briny's performance, although both can potentially deliver satisfying results based on the switches used alongside them, such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps chosen.
When it comes to feel, the Briny switch, with its specific design elements, is expected to provide a smooth keystroke, although detailed information on its tactile feedback is lacking. In contrast, the HMX Gravel switch is noted for its medium-light actuation force that offers a light and responsive typing sensation, ensuring that typing feels effortless and enjoyable. This emphasis on smoothness and responsiveness makes the Gravel particularly appealing to users who appreciate a fluid typing experience. Therefore, while the Briny may offer a broadly satisfactory and smooth feel, the Gravel distinguished itself with a focus on light touch and responsiveness.
In summary, both the Keygeek Briny and HMX Gravel linear switches have their distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Briny offers a balanced sound profile and a smooth typing experience, while the Gravel excels in delivering exceptional smoothness with a lighter actuation force. Ultimately, both switches can provide pleasing auditory and tactile experiences, depending on individual preferences and the specific keyboard configurations they are paired with. As such, newcomers can explore these switches to find which set of qualities aligns best with their typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a balanced sound profile and a moderately firm bottom out force of 60 grams, the Briny might be the better choice for you. Its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing create a unique sound that can enhance your typing experience, making it ideal for those who appreciate a more robust tactile feedback and are comfortable with a medium touch. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter and smoother typing experience, the HMX Gravel switch, with its 50-gram bottom out force, is likely to suit you better. Known for its exceptional smoothness and responsive actuation, the Gravel is perfect for fast typists or gamers seeking a lighter touch. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your own typing habits and desired acoustic characteristics, ensuring you find the switch that best matches your style.
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