Keygeek Briny vs. Gateron Ink Box Black

Overview

When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the Keygeek Briny and Gateron Ink Box Black both present compelling options for enthusiasts seeking linear switches, yet they cater to different tactile preferences and acoustic profiles. The Keygeek Briny, with its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, is renowned for delivering a balanced sound profile that ensures a pleasant typing experience without overwhelming noise. This makes it an excellent choice for users who appreciate a more understated, yet satisfying auditory feedback while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Box Black boasts a reputation for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel, accompanied by a distinctive sound that resembles a spray paint can being shaken—a characteristic that appeals to those who enjoy a bit more excitement in their keystrokes. With the Briny's balanced sound and the Ink Box Black's clacky and polished auditory experience, each switch invites users to consider their individual preferences in tactile feedback and sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Keygeek Briny Linear

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Briny and the Gateron Ink Box Black, it becomes apparent that both switches employ differing materials that significantly influence their acoustic profiles. The Briny's nylon top and bottom housings offer a softer, deeper sound due to nylon's ability to absorb sound effectively. This results in a rounder and more muted acoustic experience that can feel warm and cushy when typing. In contrast, the Ink Box Black utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housings, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and clackier sound profile. The INK blend's distinct characteristics promote a more pronounced tonal quality, resulting in a typing experience that may be perceived as energized and percussive.

While the switch materials diverge in their approach to sound construction, the functional implications of each housing type also vary. The Briny's nylon housings contribute to a fuller bottom-out sound, resonating through the typing experience, which many users appreciate for its depth and softness. Conversely, the Ink Box Black's high-pitched sound is more pronounced during the release of the key rather than the bottom-out phase, which highlights the differences in acoustic feedback each switch provides. This distinction is critical as it shapes the user's experience both during key presses and when the key returns to its original position.

Ultimately, while the Keygeek Briny and the Gateron Ink Box Black utilize different materials, the result is a clear division of sound profiles based on their structural compositions. If one were to combine housing materials or adapt the design, it’s possible to achieve a hybrid experience that captures the desirable aspects of both switches. Encouraging a balanced sound profile may yield a desirable middle ground, allowing users to appreciate both the clackiness of the Ink Box Black and the fuller tone of the Briny. In essence, by finding a way to blend these materials or properties, a unique typing experience could emerge that incorporates the strengths of each switch.

Weight

The Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch present 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, making it the lighter option. In contrast, the Ink Box Black requires a stronger actuation force of 60 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams. This difference means that users of the Briny may find it easier to type for extended periods or during long gaming sessions due to its lighter touch, while those who prefer a more substantial feel in their keystrokes may opt for the Ink Box Black, which can provide a tighter push experience. Overall, the Briny is the better choice for those seeking a lighter switch, while the Ink Box Black caters to users who appreciate a heavier tactile feedback.

Travel distance

Both the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch exhibit the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on the keys of either switch, users will experience an identical distance from the top to the bottom, leading to similar tactile feedback and actuation feel. Since both switches have the same travel distance, they should perform similarly in terms of keypress depth, providing a consistent typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Keygeek Briny linear switch is balanced, providing a pleasant experience without drawing too much attention to itself. This makes it a suitable choice for those who prefer a more subtle auditory feedback. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch offers a unique sound signature reminiscent of a spray paint can when shaken. This sound is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched quality, providing a snappy, bright, and percussive auditory experience. The difference in sound between the two switches caters to different preferences; while the Briny serves those who want a muted tone, the Ink Box Black appeals to users who enjoy a more lively and engaging sound.

When examining the feel of these switches, the Briny's qualities are not clearly defined, leaving it somewhat ambiguous in this regard. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black is noted for its extraordinarily silky feel, delivering an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance. Additionally, the polished nature of this switch indicates a refined finish, which enhances the overall fluidity of key presses. This attention to smoothness and reduced friction makes the Ink Box Black an attractive option for users who prioritize a luxurious typing sensation, emphasizing the tactile pleasure of each keystroke.

Overall, the Keygeek Briny and Gateron Ink Box Black switches provide contrasting experiences that cater to varying preferences in sound and feel. While the Briny offers a balanced sound profile conducive to quieter environments, the Ink Box Black stands out with its clacky and high-pitched auditory feedback. In terms of feel, the Ink Box Black excels with its silky and polished characteristics, which may attract users who favor smoothness in their typing experience. If you're seeking a more understated sound and feel, the Briny may serve you well, but if you're drawn to an engaging auditory experience and exceptional smoothness, the Ink Box Black is the way to go.

Conclusion

To wrap up, when deciding between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, your choice should be informed by your personal preferences in typing feel and sound profile. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a more balanced sound that strikes a tone between tactile and linear without being overly muted, the Briny switch might be the better option for you. It is ideal for users who appreciate a well-rounded typing experience without too much noise. Conversely, if you tend toward a heavier keystroke with a bottom out force of 70 grams and enjoy a smoother, creamier typing journey, then the Ink Box Black is likely your best bet. Its clacky, high-pitched sound can be delightful for those who appreciate auditory feedback while typing, and its silky, polished feel enhances the overall enjoyment of each keystroke. Ultimately, your decision hinges on whether you value a slightly lighter and more balanced typing experience with the Briny or a heavier, more tactile experience with the Ink Box Black.

Mentioned in this article

Keygeek Briny Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more