Keygeek Briny vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Keygeek Briny and the HMX Lotus (Heavy), both linear switches demonstrate unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Briny features a UPE stem and a pure PA66 bottom housing, creating a balanced sound profile that many typists find appealing for long hours of use. This switch is ideal for users seeking a smooth keystroke without the distraction of loud noises, making it a great option for both gaming and typing in quieter environments. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) stands out with its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g and a bright, resonant sound that adds a lively character to each keystroke. The Lotus offers a satisfying bouncy feel that can enhance the tactile experience for users who enjoy a bit of feedback in their typing sessions. Both switches offer their own advantages depending on your typing style and sound preference. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
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
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of both the Keygeek Briny and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches are constructed from nylon, a classic choice renowned for its acoustical properties. Both switches feature nylon for their top and bottom housings, which contributes to a cohesive and harmonious typing experience. The nylon material absorbs sound effectively due to its relatively softer composition when compared to harder plastics, rendering a deeper and fuller sound profile. Therefore, users can expect a similar auditory feedback across both switch types, characterized by a dull and rounded tone during typing.
While the Briny and the Lotus (Heavy) share the same material for both their top and bottom housings, it is essential to note that the distribution of sound qualities in these switches may vary based on how each housing interacts with the switch mechanism. Given that both switches utilize nylon throughout, they will likely produce consistent acoustic results regardless of other variances in design or engineering. The softness of the nylon contributes broadly to the feel of key presses, influencing the way the switches register keystrokes and deliver tactile feedback upon both key actuation and release.
Ultimately, the similarity in housing materials suggests that the overall characteristics of typing on the Keygeek Briny and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) will be alike. Users can expect a comparable key feel and sound, informed by the properties of nylon in reducing sharpness and enhancing resonance. Whether one is typing on the Briny or the Lotus (Heavy), the shared attributes of their nylon construction promote a satisfying and consistent experience, allowing enthusiasts to enjoy rich auditory and tactile feedback without significant differences in outcomes.
Weight
The Keygeek Briny linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch present a nuanced comparison in terms of their actuation force and bottom out force. The Briny features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Lotus (Heavy) has a slightly stronger actuation force at 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams. As a result, the Briny is the lighter switch, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended use, such as in office settings or during long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy), with its higher actuation and bottom out forces, caters to users who appreciate a more substantial feel and tactile feedback. Overall, while both switches are classified as medium force, the differences in their specific weights suggest that users will experience a slightly firmer keypress and bottoming out with the HMX Lotus compared to the Keygeek Briny, making them distinct choices depending on user preference.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, there is a slight difference between the two. The Briny features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Lotus (Heavy) has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Briny the longer of the two switches, which may appeal to users who prefer a deeper feel in their keystrokes. Conversely, the Lotus (Heavy), with its shorter travel distance, might cater to those who favor a more responsive experience, particularly beneficial for gamers looking for quicker reaction times. Ultimately, while both switches offer a relatively close travel distance, the choice between them may hinge on personal preference regarding key depth and responsiveness.
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 HMX Lotus (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus (Heavy) for $2.99.
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, thanks to its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing. This combination fosters a sound that isn't overly loud or muted, making it suitable for a variety of environments. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) offers a bright, resonant sound that is distinctly more pronounced. This difference suggests that while both switches can produce a pleasant auditory experience, the Briny leans towards a more subdued tone, while the Lotus (Heavy) welcomes a more vibrant sound, making it especially engaging for users who appreciate a bit of audible feedback when typing.
When it comes to feel, the Briny provides a pleasant, smooth experience as one would expect from a traditional linear switch, but the specific sensory details are not defined here. Conversely, the Lotus (Heavy) is characterized by its medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, which contributes to a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke. This extra weight can give the Lotus (Heavy) a noticeable resistance that some typists prefer, offering a tactile push-back that may enhance the overall typing experience. For users who enjoy a lighter touch, the Briny may be more appealing, but those who favor a more substantial keypress might find the Lotus (Heavy) to be more satisfying.
In summary, both the Keygeek Briny and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switches present unique auditory and tactile characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Briny is suited for those who desire a balanced sound and a smooth linear experience, ideal for quieter surroundings. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) appeals to users looking for a richer sound and a bouncier feel, thanks to its heavier weight. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience one seeks.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Keygeek Briny linear switch or the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, it all comes down to your preference for sound and feel during your typing or gaming experience. If you prioritize a balanced sound profile along with a moderately smooth and linear feel, the Briny switch will likely serve you well, especially if you’re looking to strike a balance between responsiveness and comfort. This switch can be particularly appealing for longer typing sessions, where a consistent feel can make all the difference. On the other hand, if you lean towards a more tactile experience with a slightly heavier actuation force and enjoy a bright, resonant sound, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is your ideal choice. Its super bouncy feel and medium-heavy weight provide a delightful keystroke experience that can not only enhance your gaming but also add satisfying feedback during fast-paced typing. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal preferences in typing resistance and auditory feedback, ensuring that you select a switch that elevates your overall experience.
Mentioned in this article
