Keygeek Briny vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When diving into the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Briny and KTT Laurel both stand out as excellent linear options, each offering unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience. The Briny features an UPE stem paired with a pure PA66 bottom housing, resulting in a balanced sound profile, making it suitable for users who appreciate a harmonious and refined acoustic experience. In contrast, the KTT Laurel, known for its full POM housing and a medium-light feel, delivers a short travel and long pole design that prioritizes responsiveness while ensuring comfort during extended typing sessions. It is also characterized by a subtly low-pitched and snappy sound profile, appealing to those who prefer a quick and satisfying response with a distinctive auditory cue. While both switches have their merits, exploring their individual features can help you determine which option aligns better with your typing style and preferences. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
The Keygeek Briny and the KTT Laurel exhibit distinct housing materials that significantly influence their sound profiles, contributing to uniquely different typing experiences. The Briny features a nylon top and bottom housing, a classic choice known for its softer texture and sound absorption capabilities. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is both muted and pleasant. The nylon material dampens vibrations effectively, producing a more rounded audio signature that many typists find satisfying and comfortable. Conversely, the KTT Laurel utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housings. While POM is also smooth and capable of dampening sound, it brings a slightly different auditory quality to the table, creating a unique sound profile that is on the deeper side yet more muted compared to nylon.
When comparing the Briny's nylon housing to the Laurel's POM, the differences in acoustics become clear. The Briny's nylon components create a fuller sound, particularly evident when bottoming out, thanks to the material’s inherent ability to absorb sound waves and reduce harshness. In contrast, the Laurel's POM housing still maintains a pleasant sound profile, but it might lend itself to a slightly crisper noise when keys are released, as POM does not absorb sound to the same extent as nylon. This variation in top housing qualities means that the overall experience of typing can differ markedly despite both switches being geared towards providing a deeper sound profile.
Overall, both the Keygeek Briny and KTT Laurel can yield similar results in terms of sound depth, but their material compositions influence the subtleties of the sound and feel. If users appreciate the deeper and more muted characteristics of nylon, they might gravitate more towards the Briny, whereas those drawn to the distinct quality of POM might prefer the Laurel. In both cases, the bottom housing will have a pronounced impact on the sound produced when keys are pressed down, while the top housing will color the sound during release, making each switch unique while still delivering the desired deeper sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, key differences arise in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Briny boasts an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch. In contrast, the Laurel features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Laurel more suitable for users who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions, reducing finger fatigue. Conversely, the Briny's heavier force provides a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who like a firmer push feel. Ultimately, if you are inclined toward a lighter switch, the KTT Laurel would be the better choice, whereas the Keygeek Briny caters to those who appreciate a bit more resistance in their typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, there is a slight difference that may impact your typing or gaming experience. The Briny has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the longer option, while the Laurel has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is marginally shorter. This difference of only 0.1 mm may seem minimal, but it can influence the feel and response of the switches. For gamers or those who prefer quicker response times, the shorter travel distance of the Laurel could provide a slight advantage. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial keypress may lean toward the Briny, as its deeper travel distance offers a more pronounced tactile experience. Overall, the choice may come down to personal preference regarding the feel of the switch in relation to the nuanced difference in their travel distances.
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 KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 is known for its balanced sound profile, which may provide a harmonious typing experience with neither overwhelming highs nor muddled lows. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel switch features a subtly low-pitched sound profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone that enhances its overall auditory appeal. While both switches deliver distinct auditory characteristics, the Briny's balanced sound can be complemented by the specific board and keycap choices used, while the Laurel's low-pitched nature adds a unique subtly, creating an inviting atmosphere for typing.
When it comes to feel, the Briny switch's qualities are not explicitly described, making it difficult to assess its tactile feedback and overall typing experience directly. In contrast, the KTT Laurel switch is characterized by its snappy feel, which stems from its responsive design due to longer or dual-staged springs. This responsiveness translates to a lively typing experience, ensuring that keystrokes are both comfortable and engaging. Therefore, while the Briny's tactile qualities remain a mystery, the Laurel offers a definitive advantage in terms of a more dynamic feel.
In conclusion, both the Keygeek Briny and KTT Laurel linear switches present unique sound and feel qualities that can appeal to different typing preferences. The Briny's balanced sound profile and the Laurel's low-pitched tonal character provide distinct auditory experiences, while the Laurel's snappy feel gives it a notable edge in responsiveness. As a newcomer, your choice may largely depend on whether you lean towards a specific sound signature or prioritize a more engaging tactile feedback in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Keygeek Briny and the KTT Laurel linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you favor a slightly heavier keystroke with a more balanced sound profile, the Briny, with its medium 60g bottom-out force and UPE stem, may suit you well. This makes it an excellent option for those who enjoy tactile feedback and a solid typing feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and snappy responsiveness, the Laurel with its 50g bottom-out force and POM housing could be the better choice. Its short travel and long pole design provide a comfortable and lively typing experience, perfect for fast typists or those who type for extended periods. Additionally, the low-pitched sound of the Laurel offers a more mellow auditory experience, making it less distracting in shared environments. By considering your typing style, sound preference, and the desired feel of the switch, you can make an informed decision that enhances your overall keyboard experience.
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