Keygeek Briny vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the Keygeek Briny and the Cherry MX Silent Red can significantly influence your typing experience. The Briny, renowned for its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, offers a balanced sound profile that caters to enthusiasts who appreciate a classic linear feel alongside a harmonious auditory signature. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red stays true to the beloved characteristics of the MX Red while introducing a crucial enhancement: silence. This switch maintains a slightly heftier typing experience but operates quietly, making it a perfect fit for users in noise-sensitive environments who still seek a satisfying tactile response. Both switches have their unique strengths, with the Briny excelling in sound and balance, while the MX Silent Red shines in its muted operation. 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
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 Keygeek Briny and Cherry MX Silent Red switches both utilize nylon as their housing material, which contributes significantly to their acoustic and tactile experiences. Both switches feature nylon top and bottom housings, making them identical in terms of material composition. This shared use of nylon is pivotal in creating a deeper and fuller sound profile that typists often appreciate. Due to nylon's softer nature, it effectively absorbs sound more than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and more muffled auditory feedback. This characteristic is an essential feature for users seeking a quieter typing experience, as both switches exhibit similar sonic qualities stemming from their nylon construction.
Another similarity between the Briny and the Silent Red is how their respective nylon housings influence the tactile feedback during use. Since both switches utilize nylon for both the top and bottom, they are likely to produce a consistent experience, with the softer plastic providing a cushioned feel during key presses. The tactile impact is perceived more from the bottom housing, which governs the feeling you get when a key bottoms out. However, the top housing predominantly affects the sound produced when the key is released. As a result, users can expect a harmonious balance between sound and feel, irrespective of which switch they choose, since both switches derive their performance from the same material.
Despite the identical material composition, subjective qualities can still emerge based on other design factors such as switch actuation and spring characteristics. If there were differences in the design or mechanics of the two switches, these would impact the overall typing experience, even if the housing material itself remains the same. For instance, variations in spring tension or form could lead to divergent tactile experiences, even though the nylon material provides a uniform sound profile. Thus, while the Briny and Silent Red's nylon housings result in similar auditory outcomes, users should also consider other mechanical features that may influence their overall typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, intriguing differences emerge in their actuation forces. The Briny switch requires an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Silent Red has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This means that typists or gamers who prefer a lighter touch may find the Cherry MX Silent Red more comfortable for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons. In terms of bottom out forces, the Briny has a defined bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating a more substantial feel when the key is fully pressed down. On the other hand, the bottom out force for the Silent Red is not available, making it difficult to compare directly in that aspect. Nonetheless, since the actuation force of the Briny is greater, it can be characterized as the heavier switch overall, providing a stronger push feel, while the Silent Red leans toward a lighter touch. For those who value a lighter typing experience, the Cherry MX Silent Red would be the recommended choice, whereas those who prefer the more robust feedback of a heavier switch might gravitate towards the Keygeek Briny.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, the Briny offers a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Silent Red features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Briny is the shorter option, which may provide a more responsive feel ideal for gamers seeking quicker actuation. Conversely, the Silent Red, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who prefer a more traditional, stable key press that feels less abrupt. Ultimately, the difference of 0.1 mm between the two switches can influence the overall typing or gaming experience, depending on individual preferences for switch responsiveness versus depth.
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 Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 is known for producing a balanced sound profile, allowing it to seamlessly fit within various sound environments without causing disturbances. This makes it versatile enough for different uses, whether in a quiet office or a bustling gaming setup. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is designed to operate with minimal noise, delivering a muted and thocky sound that is low-pitched and satisfying. The Silent Red’s sound is particularly advantageous for noise-sensitive environments, as it significantly reduces the typical sounds associated with mechanical keyboard switches, creating an atmosphere of calm while still retaining a pleasant auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Keygeek Briny switch's specific tactile characteristics are unknown, leaving room for interpretation based on user experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is characterized by its textured feel, which may introduce some noticeable friction during key presses. This sensation can provide a sense of feedback that some users might find preferable, though it can detract from the experience for those who favor a smoother and more friction-free typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Keygeek Briny linear switch offers a balanced sound profile with unknown tactile feedback, the Cherry MX Silent Red excels in providing a quieter typing experience and a textured feel that some users appreciate. If you prefer a quieter operation while maintaining satisfying auditory feedback, the MX Silent Red may be the better choice. However, if you are looking for a switch that offers a well-rounded sound experience regardless of the tactile nuances, the Briny could also meet your needs effectively. Both switches cater to different user preferences, but they can lead to enjoyable and effective typing experiences.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a more balanced sound profile with a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, the Briny is a fantastic option, especially if you appreciate a tactile yet smooth experience. This switch can provide a satisfying typist’s feel with a more pronounced acoustics, making it suitable for those who enjoy the audible feedback typical of mechanical switches while still favoring a less aggressive sound compared to clicky switches. On the other hand, if you find yourself in a noise-sensitive environment, like a shared workspace or home office, the Cherry MX Silent Red would be your go-to. Its silent operation allows for a comfortable typing experience without distracting others, while still offering a reliable, slightly heavier feel to maintain typing accuracy. Ultimately, the choice comes down to whether you prioritize auditory feedback and a more pronounced feel with the Briny, or a quieter, less intrusive experience with the MX Silent Red.
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