Keygeek Briny vs. Gateron Ink Yellow
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right linear switch for your mechanical keyboard, both the Keygeek Briny and the Gateron Ink Yellow offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Briny, renowned for its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, creates a balanced sound profile, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a harmonious typing experience without excessive noise. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow stands out with its shorter travel distance, providing a typing feel that strikes a balance between the comfort of a laptop keyboard and the robust feedback of a standard mechanical switch. This switch is particularly appreciated for its smoothness and mild clackiness, appealing to those who enjoy a bit of auditory stimulation without overwhelming sound. Each switch caters to distinct typing styles and experiences, making the decision largely dependent on personal preference and intended usage. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Briny and the Gateron Ink Yellow, a significant distinction arises due to the materials used in their construction. The Briny utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, revered for its softer plastic qualities that contribute to a deeper, fuller sound profile. This characteristic allows nylon to absorb sound more effectively, yielding a rounder and more mellow typing experience. In contrast, the Ink Yellow incorporates Gateron's proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings. Unlike nylon, this blend is designed to produce a higher-pitched, clacky sound, creating a typing sensation that is more crisp and articulate. As a result, while both switches integrate unique materials, their differing sound profiles demonstrate the impact of the materials used in shaping the auditory experience of each switch.
The impact of housing materials can be felt distinctly through the typing experience they provide. For users accustomed to the rich depth of the nylon found in the Briny, the softer texture lends itself to a sound that feels more subdued and smooth. Conversely, those who prefer the Ink Yellow will likely appreciate the sharper auditory feedback offered by the INK blend, which enhances the excitement of each keystroke. This divergence means that while both switches cater to enthusiasts looking for a satisfying typing experience, their approaches are fundamentally different; the Briny focuses on warmth and fullness, while the Ink Yellow prioritizes clarity and brightness in sound.
Despite these differences, it is possible to achieve a similar typing experience in certain respects. If both the top and bottom components of a switch have differing characteristics, the overall feel and sound can be influenced by each part. In the case of the Briny and the Ink Yellow, one could theoretically modify the switch configurations to mix components, thus blending their unique sound qualities. For instance, combining the nylon bottom of the Briny with the INK top could produce a hybrid experience that embodies the full-bodied richness of nylon while still retaining a hint of the high-pitched clarity of the Ink Yellow. This possibility showcases the fascinating versatility within mechanical switches, allowing users to tailor their keyboards to suit their auditory and tactile preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, a distinct difference in their actuation and bottom out forces becomes evident. The Briny switch features a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which makes it suitable for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for prolonged use such as long work hours or gaming sessions. Conversely, the Ink Yellow switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial feel and tactile feedback that some typists might find preferable for a more engaging typing experience. Therefore, the Briny is the lighter option, appealing to those who favor sensitivity and ease, while the Ink Yellow is on the heavier side, targeting users who enjoy a firmer push during key presses.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, the Briny has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Ink Yellow measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This means that the Briny provides a deeper keypress, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow, with its marginally shorter travel distance, might cater to those who favor quick response times and a more rapid bottoming-out. Overall, the difference in travel distance is minimal, but for those mindful of the nuances in feel, the Briny offers a slightly longer experience compared to the Ink Yellow.
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 Ink Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
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 provides a balanced sound profile, making it versatile for various environments, whether at home or in a professional setting. This neutrality allows it to be less intrusive, catering well to users who prefer a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch is characterized by its clacky sound, which produces a sharp and percussive feedback when pressed. This switch's clackiness adds a layer of auditory engagement that might appeal to users looking for a more pronounced auditory response while typing. The difference in sound character between the two makes the Briny more suited for understated use, while the Ink Yellow brings a lively auditory effect to the typing experience.
When we delve into the feel of these switches, the Briny remains somewhat undefined, but it’s important to note how the Ink Yellow has a mild and polished feel. The mild characteristic of the Ink Yellow provides an approachable typing experience, striking a balance that is neither too harsh nor too soft, making it suitable for both novices and seasoned users alike. Its polished nature implies a refined smoothness, resulting from quality materials or factory lubrication, ensuring easy key travel without the friction that can hinder performance. Comparatively, while the feel of the Briny is not explicitly described, the Ink Yellow seems designed to enhance user comfort and satisfaction during extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, when comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, the key differences lie in their sound profiles and tactile feedback. The Briny excels in maintaining a balanced and neutral tone, making it suitable for quieter environments, while the Ink Yellow attracts those seeking a sharper auditory response with its clacky tone. Feel-wise, the Ink Yellow’s mild and polished characteristics set it apart as a comfortable yet engaging option, while the Briny's feel remains undefined, suggesting that if you're looking for similar results to those of the Ink Yellow with sound and tactile experience, the Briny may not meet specific high expectations. Ultimately, user preference will play a crucial role in choosing between these two distinct typing experiences.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Keygeek Briny and Gateron Ink Yellow linear switches, your choice ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a more balanced sound profile with a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, the Briny is an excellent option. It is ideal for users who appreciate a smooth typing experience without overwhelming clackiness, making it suitable for quieter environments or for those who value a subtle auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you desire a switch that offers a bit more resistance with a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 67 grams and enjoy a punchy, clacky sound, the Ink Yellow might be more to your liking. This switch’s shorter travel distance and polished feel make it perfect for those who want a typing experience that bridges the gap between laptop keyboards and traditional mechanical ones. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize a balanced and quieter typing experience with the Briny or a more engaging and pronounced feel with the Ink Yellow.
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