Keygeek Briny vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Keygeek Briny and Cherry MX Purple RGB stand out for their distinctive characteristics. The Briny, known for its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, offers a balanced sound profile and a smooth, linear feel that appeals to gamers and typists alike who prefer a quieter, uninterrupted stroke. Conversely, the Cherry MX Purple RGB is designed for those seeking a tactile experience, delivering a satisfying medium-strength bump that adds a layer of feedback to each keystroke, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts who enjoy a more engaging typing experience. While the Briny excels in providing a seamless and minimalist approach, the MX Purple RGB caters to users who thrive on the tactile sensation of their inputs. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Keygeek Briny and the Cherry MX Purple RGB both utilize nylon in their constructions, offering a cohesive auditory experience for users. The nylon top and bottom housings of both switches contribute to a distinct sound profile that is deeper and fuller compared to those made from harder plastics. The inherent properties of nylon allow it to absorb sound more effectively, leading to a muted and rounded auditory feedback that many typists find satisfying. This commonality between the two switch models ensures that users will experience a similar quality of sound when typing, regardless of the specific branding they choose.
While the Briny and MX Purple RGB share the same nylon material for both their top and bottom housings, it is important to note that the interaction between the two can create slightly different tactile feedback and sound characteristics. The bottom housing, being responsible for the bottoming-out feel, may impart more nuanced sensations of durability and firmness when pressed. Conversely, the top housing has a more prominent influence over the sound produced as keys are released. Although both models employ identical materials, the specific design and construction of each may lead to subtle variations in the typing experience, which can cater to different user preferences in terms of feedback and sound.
Ultimately, the similarities in housing materials suggest that both the Keygeek Briny and Cherry MX Purple RGB can deliver comparable sound profiles and tactile feedback. Users of either switch will likely appreciate the rounded sound signature and softer typing experience that nylon provides. Therefore, if one switch's design is favored for its feel, it could be assumed that the other will offer a similarly enjoyable typing experience, albeit with its unique variations stemming mostly from their specific engineering and attributes beyond just the housing material. This consistency allows users to confidently explore both options without significant concern for sound quality discrepancies due to the shared nylon construction.
Weight
The Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch exhibit differing characteristics in terms of actuation force. The Briny has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as medium in terms of tactile feedback and typing effort. In contrast, the actuation force of the MX Purple RGB is slightly lighter at 45 grams, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions without fatigue. However, the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Purple RGB is unknown, leaving a gap in comparison regarding how it feels when pressed all the way down. Given these specifications, the Briny switch is the heavier option, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB offers a lighter touch. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Cherry MX Purple might be preferable, whereas those seeking more resistance may gravitate towards the Keygeek Briny. If someone were to find the bottom out force of the MX Purple RGB, they could obtain clearer insights into the overall typing experience, but as it stands, the Briny provides a more substantial push feel compared to the MX Purple RGB.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, we observe a difference in their respective travel distances. The Briny switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB measures 4 mm. This places the Briny as the shorter option, catering to those who prefer a more responsive feel during fast-paced gaming, as shorter travel distances can facilitate quicker actuation. In contrast, the MX Purple RGB, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who appreciate a more tactile and substantial depth with each keystroke, offering a more traditional typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference: if responsiveness is your priority, the Keygeek Briny would be the better option, while those valuing a deeper feedback might favor the Cherry MX Purple RGB.
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 Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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 produces a balanced sound profile, making it a good choice for users who prefer a quieter typing experience without being drowned out by excessive noise. The Cherry MX Purple RGB switch, while primarily a tactile switch, typically generates a more pronounced sound due to its additional tactile bump. The combination of its design and the materials used can result in a satisfying but noticeably louder click when bottoming out, especially when paired with certain boards and keycaps. However, both switches’ acoustics can vary significantly depending on the keyboard they are used with, so sound characteristics might overlap depending on the setup.
When it comes to feel, the Briny is characterized by its smooth linear action, offering a glide-like experience with no tactile feedback, which some users appreciate for uninterrupted keystrokes. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB features a refined tactile bump that provides a tactile response which many typists find satisfying. This bump acts as a physical cue, letting users know when a key has been actuated, which can enhance typing accuracy and feedback during use. Thus, while the Briny offers a smooth linear feel that caters to different preferences, the MX Purple RGB gives a more engaging experience for those who prefer tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch present two distinct approaches to mechanical typing experiences. The Briny caters to those who enjoy a quiet and smooth typing experience, while the MX Purple RGB appeals to users who appreciate clear tactile feedback combined with notable sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding sound and feel, but both can provide enjoyable typing experiences when integrated into the right keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch ultimately comes down to your personal typing preferences and the type of experience you're seeking from your mechanical keyboard. If you appreciate a smooth keystroke without any tactile interruptions, with a balanced sound profile that doesn't detract from your typing experience, the Briny might be your ideal switch; its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams provides control without requiring excessive effort. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more dynamic feel with tactile feedback, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch, designed for those who relish a noticeable bump while typing, could be the better option. This switch not only offers a reliable tactile experience but also allows for a more playful and involved interaction with your keyboard. In essence, choose the Briny for a smooth, quiet typing experience and opt for the MX Purple RGB when you want that satisfying tactile response and a more engaging sound profile, making your decision align with how you intend to use your keyboard.
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