Keygeek Briny vs. Cherry MX Red

Overview

When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Briny and the Cherry MX Red stand out as two prominent linear options, each offering a unique typing experience. The Briny, crafted with a UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, is celebrated for its balanced sound profile that caters to those who appreciate a more subtle acoustic feedback while typing. This switch is perfect for users seeking a smooth and quiet operation, ideal for office environments or late-night gaming sessions. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red is a classic choice, renowned for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile that delivers a more robust typing experience. With a satisfying auditory depth, the MX Red appeals to typists and gamers alike who enjoy a stronger sensation when pressing keys. While both switches offer the linear smoothness prized by enthusiasts, their distinct sound and tactile characteristics make them suitable for different preferences and environments. 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 Red Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$5.90

$4.00 per 10

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Housing materials

The Keygeek Briny and the Cherry MX Red both feature nylon as their primary housing material, which results in a notably similar typing experience. The use of nylon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile in both switches, as it is a softer plastic compared to alternative materials. This inherent softness allows the nylon to effectively absorb sound, creating a mellower acoustic experience that many typists appreciate. Given that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, it’s clear that users can expect comparable auditory feedback when typing, enhancing the overall enjoyment and comfort of their keyboard.

Moreover, while both the Briny and the MX Red utilize nylon for both their top and bottom housings, the nuanced characteristics of these housings can impact the overall feel and sound of each switch. The bottom housing plays a critical role in the bottom-out sound and feel, meaning both the Briny and MX Red will share similarities in that aspect. Simultaneously, the top housing primarily influences the sound emitted when a key is released, further emphasizing the role of nylon in maintaining a consistent auditory experience across both switches. This design choice ensures that whether one is typing on the Briny or the MX Red, the aural feedback remains rich and satisfying.

In contrast, if the two switches were to utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, the qualities of each material might lead to a broader variance in tactile and auditory feedback. For instance, utilizing a harder plastic for one of the housings could result in a sharper sound or a more pronounced bottom-out feel. However, since both the Briny and Cherry MX Red consistently employ nylon throughout, users can confidently anticipate a uniform experience characterized by the warmth and muted sound associated with this classic material. This shared construction makes both switches ideal choices for typists who prioritize sound quality and comfort in their keyboard experience.

Weight

When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Briny requires an actuation force of 50 grams, while the MX Red is lighter at 45 grams. This means that users who favor lighter switches may find the Cherry MX Red more comfortable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, whereas those who appreciate a more substantial feel might prefer the Briny's slightly higher force. Both switches utilize a bottom-out force to describe the pressure needed to fully depress the key, with the Briny measuring 60 grams. However, the bottom-out force for the MX Red is not available, making a direct comparison impossible. In summary, the Briny is the heavier option with more resistance, while the Cherry MX Red offers a lighter typing experience for those who favor ease of keystrokes.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, a clear distinction is evident. The Briny switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the MX Red offers a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Briny is the shorter of the two, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more responsive feel during gameplay. Conversely, the MX Red, with its greater depth, may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke, lending a more traditional typing experience. Ultimately, if you favor quick responses and a less abrupt feel, the Briny is the ideal choice, whereas the MX Red caters to those who appreciate a greater travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Keygeek Briny linear switch produces a balanced sound profile, which ensures a pleasant typing experience, but it lacks specific descriptors to fully convey its auditory qualities. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red features a thocky sound, characterized by a deep, rich, and satisfying auditory experience that creates a robust ambiance during typing. Its low-pitched quality adds to this richness, offering a bass-heavy tone that many typists find comforting and engaging. While both switches will inevitably sound different when paired with various keycaps and boards, expect the Briny to deliver a more neutral sound, whereas the MX Red will give you that deeper thock that many enthusiasts cherish.

When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Briny is not explicitly described, leaving an unknown aspect of its tactile qualities. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red is known for its textured feel, which can present noticeable friction when pressed. This texture can be favored by those who appreciate a bit of resistance while typing, contrasting with switches that offer a smoother experience. If the Briny switch carries a softer feel, it may appeal to those who prefer more fluid and effortless key presses, while the MX Red's textured nature will resonate more with users looking for tactile feedback.

Overall, while both the Keygeek Briny and Cherry MX Red linear switches offer unique experiences, the differences in sound and feel are notable. The Briny provides a balanced sound profile, while the MX Red offers a more pronounced thocky and low-pitched auditory characteristic. On the tactile side, the Briny’s feel remains a mystery, whereas the MX Red’s textured feedback may cater to a specific preference for a tactile experience. In selecting between the two, one should consider personal preferences for sound depth and tactile feedback to find the switch that best suits their typing style.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, you should consider your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. If you're looking for a switch with a more balanced sound profile and medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, the Briny switch may be the better choice for you. It may appeal to those who appreciate a subtler auditory experience without sacrificing feedback during typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper, more thocky sound accompanied by slightly heftier feedback while typing, the Cherry MX Red switch could be your ideal match. The MX Red's textured feel may provide a satisfying tactile sensation for users who enjoy a little resistance in their keystrokes. Ultimately, your choice should reflect not just your typing style but also your desired auditory and tactile experience, allowing you to create an enjoyable typing environment tailored specifically to your needs.

Mentioned in this article

Keygeek Briny Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Cherry MX Red Linear

$5.90

$4.00 per 10

Learn more