Keygeek Briny vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch for your typing needs, the Keygeek Briny and Gateron Mini i offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Briny, with its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, delivers a balanced sound profile and a linear feel, making it a fantastic option for gamers and typists who prefer smooth keystrokes without any tactile bumps. This switch is designed for those seeking a quiet and uninterrupted typing experience that allows for quick, fluid transitions across key presses. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i brings a subtle tactile sensation to each keystroke, ideal for office environments where gentle feedback and a muted sound profile are desirable. Lightweight and easy to press, the Mini i ensures comfort during long typing sessions while providing the satisfying tactile response that many typists enjoy. Each switch presents compelling arguments for different user needs; however, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Keygeek Briny and the Gateron Mini i utilize nylon as the primary material for their top and bottom housings. This choice in material is significant as nylon is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience when key presses are made. Because both switches share this nylon composition, users can expect a similar sound signature, enhancing the overall typing experience in a comparable manner between the two models.
In terms of housing structure, the Briny and Mini i both house their components in identical nylon top and bottom housings, which work in concert to influence the switch's performance. When a key is pressed, the qualities of the bottom housing become particularly prominent, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a vital role in the sound produced when a key is released. Given that both switches are constructed from nylon, they adhere to similar acoustics; therefore, the interaction between the top and bottom housings will yield closely aligned tactile feedback and sound production, reinforcing a consistent experience across models.
However, while the nylon material is the same in both switches, if any discrepancies exist between the design or internal mechanics of the Briny and the Mini i, such variations could create subtle differences in feel and sound. If the top and bottom housings were to differ, users might notice a distinct variation in typing experience where certain acoustic properties could be emphasized. Nonetheless, since both models utilize the same nylon material throughout, enthusiasts can anticipate a notably enriched auditory experience, characterized by that classic nylon signature, ensuring that both switches serve effectively for a satisfying typing session.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Briny features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Mini i has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. As a result, the Mini i is ideal for those who prefer a softer touch when typing, which can enhance comfort during long work hours or gaming sessions. Conversely, the Briny's higher forces provide a more substantial feedback experience, appealing to users who enjoy a heftier key press. Thus, while both switches have distinct characteristics, the Briny is the heavier option, whereas the Mini i is the lighter choice, catering to different user preferences in tactile feedback and typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, we see a notable difference. The Briny features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Mini i falls slightly shorter at 3.4 mm. This means that the Briny provides a deeper press, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial tactile experience as opposed to a quick, abrupt feel. Conversely, the Mini i, with its shorter travel distance, can offer a more responsive experience, making it more suitable for gamers seeking faster action. Ultimately, if you're inclined towards a more robust depth in your keystrokes, the Briny is the better option, whereas for those who prioritize speed and quick response times, the Mini i would be the preferable choice.
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 Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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
When it comes to sound characteristics, the Keygeek Briny linear switch is known for producing a balanced sound profile, conducive to both professional and personal environments. This balance makes it versatile across various use cases, though specific acoustic qualities may depend on additional factors like the keyboard build and keycap materials. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, positioning it as a suitable option for both office and home use. Its relatively muted sound maintains a certain level of satisfaction in auditory feedback while ensuring that interruptions are minimized, making it particularly effective in quieter settings.
In terms of tactile feel, the Briny linear switch's exact qualities are not explicitly defined, but linear switches generally provide smooth keystrokes without the tactile bump found in tactile or clicky options, leading to a consistent and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i is characterized by a range of descriptive qualities that enhance the overall typing experience. They are bouncy, offering a spring-like feedback, and easy to press, which means minimal force is required for actuation, reducing fatigue during extended use. The mild tactility of the Mini i adds to its approachability, while the subtle and snappy qualities provide a responsive feel that many users find satisfying. This makes the Mini i particularly well-suited for those who prefer a tactile experience without overwhelming feedback.
In summary, both the Keygeek Briny and Gateron Mini i switches cater to specific preferences in sound and feel, but they serve slightly different audiences. The Briny’s balanced sound profile allows for flexibility in usage environments, while the Mini i provides a gentle yet responsive tactile experience ideal for long typing sessions. Choosing between them will largely depend on whether you prefer the smoothness and potential for quiet of the Briny or the tactile satisfaction and low effort of the Mini i. Each offers distinct qualities that can satisfy various typing needs, ensuring that users get a gratifying experience no matter their choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, your decision should be guided by your typing preferences and intended usage. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force and appreciate a more balanced sound profile, the Briny is a solid option, particularly if you're looking for a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke experience that linear switches provide. However, if you desire a lighter touch for extensive typing sessions and value a subtle tactile feedback without excessive noise, the Gateron Mini i will likely serve you better. Its lightweight design and gentle resistance make it ideal for long hours in an office setting, as it reduces finger fatigue and offers a satisfying yet unobtrusive typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their unique strengths, so your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize the smoothness of a linear switch or the mild tactility and ease of use that a light tactile switch provides.
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