Keygeek Briny vs. Gateron Jupiter Red

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect linear mechanical keyboard switch, the Keygeek Briny and the Gateron Jupiter Red stand out as two compelling options, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Briny, known for its balanced sound profile produced by an UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, appeals to those seeking a pleasant auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red is celebrated for its smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes enabled by a single-stage spring, which provides a medium-heavy actuation force that many gamers and typists find ideal for sustained use. Additionally, the Jupiter Red's high-precision molds and softer backlight effects add an aesthetic touch, making it a favorite among users who prioritize a seamless, consistent typing experience. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your personal needs and preferences.

By the numbers

Keygeek Briny Linear

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$2.80 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Keygeek Briny and the Gateron Jupiter Red exhibit notable differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influence the overall sound profile produced by each switch. The Briny utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer texture. This material is effective at absorbing sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Jupiter Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper and higher-pitched sound signature. The stiffer characteristics of polycarbonate contribute to a clearer and more resonant sound profile, making it an ideal choice for those seeking brighter auditory feedback. The choice of housing material thus plays a vital role in shaping the acoustic properties of the switches, with nylon favoring warmth and depth, while polycarbonate emphasizes clarity and brightness.

When we turn our attention to the bottom housings of both switches, we find that they are constructed from the same nylon material. This shared aspect means that the experience of bottoming out the keypresses will feel remarkably similar between the two switches; both will exhibit that characteristic deeper and fuller sound profile attributed to nylon. The sound absorption qualities and the softer texture of the nylon bottom housing contribute to a consistent auditory experience when fully pressing the keys down. This shared material ensures that any differences in sound profile between the Briny and the Jupiter Red will primarily stem from their distinct top housings during the key release phase, where each housing's material properties come into play.

To sum up, while the Keygeek Briny and Gateron Jupiter Red differ in their top housing materials—nylon offering depth versus polycarbonate providing clarity—their shared nylon bottom housing establishes a common ground in terms of the bottoming out experience. This overlap allows the switches to maintain a consistent tactile sensation regardless of the differences in their sound profiles. Ultimately, the unique combination of both housing materials creates a versatile typing experience; users can enjoy the benefits of the deep sound from the nylon bottom in conjunction with either the softer, rounded quality of the Briny or the sharper, resonant characteristics of the Jupiter Red, depending on their preference.

Weight

The Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch offer some interesting contrasts in terms of actuation force. The Briny requires an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Jupiter Red is lighter, needing only 45 grams to trigger a keystroke. This difference makes the Jupiter Red switch more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch, as it allows for prolonged typing sessions without much strain. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 60 grams, meaning that regardless of the actuation force, both switches will provide a similar feeling of resistance when pressed all the way down. Consequently, while the Briny is the heavier option when it comes to actuation force, both switches deliver a comparable experience at the bottom out stage, appealing to different user preferences in terms of tactile feedback.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The Briny features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jupiter Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Briny provides a slightly shorter feel, appealing to those who prefer a quicker response time, which is often desired by gamers. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red's longer travel distance caters to users who favor a deeper tactile experience, providing a sense of more gradual key engagement. Ultimately, if you're looking for a quicker activation, the Briny might be the better choice, while those who appreciate a more substantial feel may lean towards the Jupiter Red.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Keygeek Briny linear switch is characterized by a balanced quality, making it suitable for a variety of environments without being overly intrusive or quiet. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch is defined as having a neutral sound. This means it maintains a moderate sound profile that does not draw too much attention, which is advantageous for both beginners and advanced users alike, whether in a home office or traditional workplace. Ultimately, while the Briny’s balanced sound offers a slightly distinct auditory experience, both switches allow for a generally unobtrusive typing sound, making them versatile choices for many users.

When it comes to feel, the Briny switch's characteristics remain unspecified, leaving an open question about its tactile experience. In contrast, the Jupiter Red linear switch is known for its polished, creamy, and silky nature. This combination guarantees a refined typing experience marked by reduced friction and smooth key travel, allowing for a delightful interaction as fingers glide over the keys. The presence of factory lubrication and high-quality materials contributes to this luxurious sensation, which is appealing for those who prioritize smooth keystrokes in their typing experience.

In summary, the Keygeek Briny and Gateron Jupiter Red linear switches each offer unique qualities, especially in sound and feel. While the Briny delivers a balanced sound, the Jupiter Reds provide a neutral auditory experience. On the tactile front, the Jupiter Reds excel with their polished, creamy, and silky sensations, while the feel of the Briny switch remains unspecified. Despite these differences, both options are likely to cater well to users seeking a pleasant typing experience, providing satisfying results whether chosen for casual or professional settings.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you're looking for a balanced sound profile and a solid feel, the Briny might be the switch for you. Its medium bottom-out force makes it suitable for those who appreciate a more resistant feedback while typing, which can contribute to a satisfying experience, especially if you're typing for extended periods or gaming. On the other hand, if you prioritize a completely smooth and seamless keypress, the Jupiter Red is your best bet. With its carefully engineered single-stage spring and polished feel, it excels in delivering a creamy and silky typing experience that reduces friction, making it an excellent choice for fast and precise keystrokes. Furthermore, if you plan to use the switch in varied environments such as both home and work, the neutral sound profile of the Jupiter Red ensures it won't be disruptive to those around you. Therefore, your decision should ultimately be guided by whether you value a tactile sound experience (Briny) or a super smooth keystroke (Jupiter Red).

Mentioned in this article

Keygeek Briny Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

$2.80 per 10

Learn more