Keygeek Briny vs. Keygeek Keylin
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the Keygeek Keylin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly affect your typing experience, and the Keygeek Briny and Keygeek Keylin linear switches present two appealing options. The Briny boasts an UPE stem and a pure PA66 bottom housing, resulting in a well-balanced sound profile that many users find satisfying. On the other hand, the Keylin utilizes newly developed molds from Keygeek, offering a premium typing experience characterized by rich acoustics and impressive smoothness. Both switches cater to users who prefer linear switches for their smooth keystrokes, but they each bring unique qualities to the table. The Briny's balanced sound makes it ideal for those who appreciate auditory feedback without being too loud, while the Keylin appeals to those seeking the ultimate in typing smoothness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Keygeek Briny and the Keygeek Keylin exhibit striking similarities, as both models exclusively utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This consistent use of nylon allows both switches to maintain a similar auditory character, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The inherent qualities of nylon, as a softer plastic, play a pivotal role in how sound is absorbed, creating a muted and rounded sound sensation which is particularly desirable among keyboard enthusiasts. Consequently, users of either keyboard can expect a comparable typing experience, characterized by a satisfying auditory feedback that resonates with those who prefer softer switch sounds.
Furthermore, the identical nylon compositions in both the Briny and Keylin mean that the tactile sensations felt during use should also be largely the same. The impact of each housing on the overall feel and sound is shared between both the top and bottom housings. In practice, this means that whether a user is typing on the Briny or the Keylin, they will encounter a consistent response with minimal variation. The design choice to use nylon across both switches emphasizes a unified experience, making it easier for users to transition between the two models without adapting to significantly differing sound or tactile feedback.
In creating keyboards designed for an immersive typing experience, Keygeek has effectively harnessed the advantages of nylon in both the Briny and the Keylin. The essential nature of the material allows these keyboards to deliver a sound experience that is fuller and deeper, regardless of the model. If any differentiation exists in other parts of the switches—such as the switch mechanism—these variations would not detract from the advantageous acoustic characteristics provided by the nylon housings. Thus, for users who prioritize audio feedback and typing comfort, both the Briny and Keylin stand out as excellent choices in the realm of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Briny requires an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, establishing it as a medium-weight option. In contrast, the Keylin features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a preferable choice for users who favor a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. This difference means that those who prefer a stronger, more substantial typing experience would likely opt for the Briny, while those seeking ease of use and comfort over long periods might choose the Keylin. Overall, the Briny is the heavier switch, while the Keylin is the lighter option, catering to different user preferences in terms of typing feel and endurance.
Travel distance
The travel distance of both the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch is identical, measuring at 3.6 mm. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable feel and response when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. As a result, the tactile experience in terms of distance traveled is the same, leading to uniformity in their performance. Consequently, whether one opts for the Briny or the Keylin, they will enjoy similar results when it comes to the switch's travel distance.
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 Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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 is known for its balanced sound profile thanks to its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, which aims to provide a pleasant auditory experience. In contrast, the Keylin linear switch takes advantage of new molds from Keygeek to deliver rich acoustics that enhance the overall sound quality. Both switches have their unique approach to sound; however, the final auditory experience can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard build and keycap materials used, which can make either switch sound different in practice.
When considering the feel of each switch, the Briny is noted for its smooth actuation, allowing for a satisfying typing experience that caters to both casual typists and gamers alike. On the other hand, the Keylin emphasizes exceptional smoothness, which could further refine the tactile feedback during typing. While both switches provide a linear experience, the nuances in their construction may result in slightly different sensations under the fingers.
In summary, both the Keygeek Briny and Keylin linear switches are engineered to deliver high-quality typing experiences, albeit with different auditory and tactile characteristics. The Briny aims for a balanced sound and smooth feel, while the Keylin focuses on rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness. Depending on your keyboard setup and personal preferences, either switch could serve you well; their individual qualities may resonate similarly for users looking to enhance their mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Keygeek Briny and the Keylin linear switches, it’s important to consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams that offers a balanced and satisfying acoustic feedback, the Briny is likely the better choice for you. Its UPE stem and PA66 housing work together to create a harmonious sound profile while providing a solid tactile experience suitable for a variety of typing styles, especially if you enjoy a bit of resistance in your keystrokes. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter feel with a bottom-out force of just 48 grams, then the Keylin may be more fitting. Designed with new molds, it provides a premium typing experience characterized by rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming where quick keystrokes are essential. In summary, your choice largely hinges on whether you favor a firmer feedback with the Briny or a softer, more fluid experience with the Keylin.
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