Keygeek Briny vs. Cherry MX Black

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Keygeek Briny and Cherry MX Black both stand out as popular options for enthusiasts seeking a linear typing experience. The Briny, crafted with an UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, is renowned for its balanced sound profile, making it an appealing choice for those who want a quieter and more refined typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black switches have long been celebrated for their robustness and are now enhanced by Cherry's new Hyperglide tooling, which offers a smooth, textured feel and a deeper sound profile that many users find satisfying, albeit a bit stiffer. While both switches deliver a linear response, the Briny leans towards a gentle, versatile sound, while the MX Black presents a more pronounced tactile feedback. Each switch caters to different typing preferences and contexts, whether you prioritize sound, feel, or actuation force. 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

Cherry MX Black Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$4.00 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Briny and the Cherry MX Black, both switches are made utilizing nylon for their top and bottom housings. This commonality between the switches is significant as nylon is recognized for its acoustic properties, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The Briny and MX Black share an advantage in this regard: the nylon's soft texture aids in sound absorption, resulting in a sound that is both duller and rounder than that produced by harder plastics. Thus, users of either switch can anticipate a similar auditory experience characterized by warmth, which enhances the overall typing feedback and enjoyment.

While the materials used in the top and bottom housings are the same for both the Briny and MX Black, it is important to note how the design of these switches can affect typing experience in practical applications. Since both the Briny and MX Black feature nylon housing, players and typists can expect comparable performances in terms of sound and overall tactile feedback. However, subtle differences may arise from other design choices such as switch actuation force or stem type, which can influence the feel and sound upon bottoming out or releasing a key. These nuanced aspects result from the integration of different internal mechanisms rather than the housing material itself.

In conclusion, while the Keygeek Briny and Cherry MX Black utilize identical nylon materials for their switch housings, the acoustic properties of the nylon ensure a similarly satisfying user experience in terms of sound quality and feel. The nylon's ability to absorb sound contributes to a consistent auditory profile between the two switches. However, the ultimate typing experience will be shaped by the switches' specific designs and functionalities, reinforcing how even with common materials, the differences in engineering can create distinct atmospheres and tactile feelings for the user.

Weight

When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch to the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it's clear that they cater to different preferences regarding actuation and bottom out forces. The Briny has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which makes it suitable for those who favor a more effortless typing experience, especially beneficial for long sessions at work or during gaming. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black switch features a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, appealing to users who appreciate a more substantial and engaging keystroke feel. This marked difference indicates that the Briny is the lighter option, while the MX Black is the heavier choice. Consequently, users aiming for reduced fatigue during extended typing would likely prefer the Briny, whereas those seeking a firmer touch might gravitate towards the Cherry MX Black.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, the Briny features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the MX Black has a travel distance of 4.0 mm. This makes the Briny the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel that may appeal to gamers who favor quicker key presses. Conversely, the MX Black's longer 4.0 mm travel distance provides a deeper typing experience that some users may prefer for its tactile feedback. Therefore, for those who enjoy a more responsive touch, the Briny would be the ideal choice, while those seeking a more pronounced key press might lean towards the MX Black.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, the Briny is best known for producing a balanced sound profile, although specific details about its auditory qualities remain unspecified. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switch is noted for its deep, low-pitched sound, which provides a bass-heavy and mellow tone, making it pleasing for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory experience while typing. While both switches aim for a rich typing sound, the MX Black's distinctive low-pitched characteristics may appeal to users who favor a deeper auditory sensation.

In terms of feel, the Briny's specific tactile characteristics are not provided, leaving its precise typing experience open to interpretation. Conversely, the Cherry MX Black switches are characterized as textured and stiff. This means that users will encounter noticeable friction during actuation, lending a degree of resistance that some may find satisfying while others could perceive as a drawback. The stiffness of these switches requires greater force to actuate and bottom out, which could provide an engaging typing experience for users who prefer a more robust switch feel.

In summary, while both the Keygeek Briny and the Cherry MX Black switches are designed to provide an enjoyable typing experience, their differences in sound and feel may cater to varied preferences among users. The Briny's balanced sound profile offers a versatile auditory experience, while the Cherry MX Black's low-pitched sound and textured, stiff feel create a more robust and tactile environment. Those who value deep, resonant sounds might lean toward the MX Black, whereas the Briny could be a suitable alternative for those preferring a neutral sound profile, though more specific attributes of the Briny remain to be detailed.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you prefer a switch with a medium actuation force that provides a balanced sound profile, the Briny may be the better choice for you. The softer actuation can be gentler on your fingers during long typing sessions and may result in a more pleasant experience if you are focused on productivity or casual gaming. On the other hand, if you like a heavier feel and a distinct low-pitched sound, the Cherry MX Black switches cater to those who appreciate a stiffer, more textured typing experience. The 80-gram bottom-out force may offer more resistance, which some typists and gamers find beneficial for precision and control during high-intensity situations. In summary, your choice should align with your typing style—light and balanced with the Briny, or more substantial and textured with the MX Blacks.

Mentioned in this article

Keygeek Briny Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Cherry MX Black Linear

$4.00 per 10

Learn more