Keygeek Briny vs. Gazzew LT

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly impact your typing experience, and two notable linear options are the Keygeek Briny and the Gazzew LT. The Briny is celebrated for its unique UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, which together create a well-balanced sound profile that appeals to those who favor subtle and refined acoustic feedback. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT switches are not only visually striking with their enticing lilac hue but also deliver a rich auditory experience described as "linear thock," providing a deep, resonant sound that many enthusiasts find satisfying. While the Briny may be ideal for users looking for a smooth and understated typing experience, the LT offers a more pronounced thockiness for those who enjoy a tactile auditory delight. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Keygeek Briny Linear

Gazzew LT Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Briny and the Gazzew LT switches, both utilize a nylon top and bottom housing for the Briny and a proprietary Gazzew blend for the LT. The nylon used in the Briny is a classic material known for its ability to create a fuller and deeper sound profile. This characteristic stems from nylon's relatively softer plastic composition, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. This results in a typing experience that produces a noticeably duller and rounder sound, making it ideal for users who appreciate a muted acoustic feedback while typing.

In contrast, the Gazzew LT's proprietary "boba plastic" blend also employs a softness that facilitates a rich and deep sound profile similar to that of nylon. This comparison highlights how both switches can create a satisfying auditory experience, even though the specific materials differ. Additionally, the similarities in softness across both housing materials are expected to yield comparable acoustic results, allowing users of either switch to enjoy a similar typing sound. However, the nuances in sound generation will be dictated by the distinct compositions of nylon versus the Gazzew blend.

Despite their differences, the way each switch's housing contributes to the overall typing experience is fundamentally aligned. In the case of both the Briny and the Gazzew LT, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound release during key release. Thus, while the materials offer varied compositions, both switches are engineered to deliver a satisfying auditory experience, reflecting the preferences of different typists regardless of the surface materials used for the top and bottom housings. This duality ensures that users can achieve similar sound experiences through different constructions, capitalizing on the unique benefits each material brings to the overall switch performance.

Weight

The Keygeek Briny linear switch features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom-out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch, while the Gazzew LT linear switch has an unknown actuation force but boasts a heavier bottom-out force of 65 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range. This difference in actuation force suggests that the Briny is lighter and may be preferable for users who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as it requires less force to actuate. In contrast, the heavier bottom-out force of the LT can provide a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a firmer feel. While we can draw a comparison in bottom-out forces, the unknown actuation force for the LT leaves some uncertainty about its overall typing experience; however, given the known data, the Briny is clearly the lighter option.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, the Briny offers a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the LT has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. This means that for users who favor a more responsive keypress, the LT may be the better choice, providing a quicker actuation suited for gaming environments. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel might find the Briny's 3.6 mm distance more appropriate, as it offers a greater depth that can make typing feel more satisfying. Thus, while both switches cater to different preferences, the Briny is the longer option, and the LT is the shorter, highlighting the diverging experiences they provide based on travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Keygeek Briny linear switch is known for its balanced sound profile, which suggests a harmonious blend of frequencies during key presses. While it may not possess the pronounced depth of some switches, it likely provides a smooth auditory experience that doesn't overshadow the typing experience. In contrast, the Gazzew LT linear switch excels in creating an auditory symphony characterized by deep, resonant thockiness. Users can expect a bassy sound that delivers a rich, satisfying thud with each keystroke, resulting in a low-pitched tone that enhances the overall typing satisfaction. Ultimately, while both switches deliver enjoyable sound experiences, the LT's thockiness stands out as more pronounced.

In terms of feel, the Keygeek Briny switch offers a quality that isn't explicitly described, but one can infer that its smooth operation is likely complemented by its balanced sound profile. Meanwhile, the Gazzew LT is noted for providing a seamless glide with every keystroke, indicating a very fluid and effortless typing experience. This combination of smoothness and the auditory feedback from the thocky sound contributes to a satisfying tactile interaction with the LT switches. While the exact feel of the Briny remains uncertain, the LT's seamless action adds a layer of refinement to its appeal.

In conclusion, both the Keygeek Briny and Gazzew LT linear switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Briny emphasizing balance and the LT focusing on deep, resonant sounds. The feel of the Briny isn't detailed, leaving an unknown factor that could influence preference. However, the seamless glide of the LT presents a clear advantage in tactile feedback. Ultimately, choosing between them will come down to personal preference for sound and tactile engagement, though both switches can deliver satisfying typing experiences.

Conclusion

To wrap up, when selecting between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, your choice will largely depend on your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and actuation force. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams and desire a balanced sound profile, with a focus on smoothness and a clean, yet muted acoustics, then the Briny is the right switch for you. Its composition with an UPE stem and PA66 bottom housing ensures a solid typing experience without overwhelming auditory feedback. Conversely, if you lean towards a more tactile experience with a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams and appreciate a deeper, richer sound, the Gazzew LT switches may be more appropriate. Their signature "thocky" sound, characterized by deep and resonant tones, combined with a seamless keystroke glide, creates a more immersive auditory experience ideal for those who enjoy a pronounced feedback during typing. Ultimately, your decision should reflect not only the technical specifications of these switches but also what feels and sounds pleasing to you as you type.

Mentioned in this article

Keygeek Briny Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew LT Linear

$6.50 per 10

Learn more