Keygeek Briny vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two notable contenders are the Keygeek Briny and the Cherry MX Speed Silver, both of which are linear switches that cater to different user preferences. The Briny, renowned for its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, creates a balanced sound profile, appealing to those who seek a harmonious typing experience without excessive noise. This makes it an excellent choice for both casual typists and gamers who enjoy a smooth, yet tactile feedback. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is engineered for speed, featuring a full-height design and low spring resistance that allows for instant triggering. This switch is particularly favored by gamers who require rapid response times, as even the slightest delay can impact performance in competitive settings. While both switches are linear, their characteristics serve distinct purposes—whether you prioritize a quieter, balanced sound or lightning-fast actuation, each has its own appeal. 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
1.20 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Keygeek Briny and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches, both utilize nylon as their primary ingredient for both the top and bottom housings. This shared choice of material leads to similar acoustic properties that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound well, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience compared to switches made from harder plastics. Therefore, users of both switch types should expect a similar sound characteristic, which enhances typing comfort and reduces the potential for sharp, jarring noises that can be distracting during use.
Despite their similarities, some differences may arise in terms of the overall feel when typing. Each switch could feature distinct actuation points and tactile feedback, influencing the typing experience. However, since both the Briny and MX Speed Silver are made entirely of nylon, the tactile feedback provided by the top and bottom housings will also be softened, leading users to experience a plush landing when bottoming out. This shared composition suggests that while the user experience may vary, the sound dynamics created by the nylon material will maintain a consistent signature across both switches.
In summary, while the Keygeek Briny and Cherry MX Speed Silver differ in their specific engineering and design nuances, the use of nylon for both their top and bottom housings creates a consistent foundation for sound absorption and acoustic performance. As a result, regardless of the typing experience differences, users can confidently expect a similar auditory profile due to the properties of nylon. This indicates that whether one opts for the Briny or the MX Speed Silver, the overall experience will be shaped significantly by the effects of the nylon material.
Weight
The Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch exhibit distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Briny has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which places it in the medium range of key switches. In contrast, the MX Speed Silver has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to press with less effort. However, the bottom out force for the Speed Silver is unknown, which leaves a gap in our comparison regarding how it feels when fully pressed down. Overall, the Briny is the heavier switch between the two, likely providing a more substantial typing experience, while the MX Speed Silver's lighter actuation might appeal to those seeking prolonged use without fatigue. If both switches were to have comparable bottom out forces, users could expect a similar typing experience in terms of bounce-back and feel, with the choice resting primarily on personal preference for actuation weight.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, the Briny features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the MX Speed Silver has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Briny the longer travel option, offering a fuller press that some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the speed-oriented MX Speed Silver, with its shorter travel distance, may be more appealing to gamers seeking quicker response times and less tactile interruption during rapid key presses. Thus, those who favor a more responsive feel should lean towards the MX Speed Silver, whereas those who appreciate a deeper key travel might enjoy the Keygeek Briny.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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, the Keygeek Briny linear switch is known for producing a balanced sound profile, which appeals to users looking for a consistent auditory experience without any sharp tonal variations. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches are characterized by their thocky and low-pitched quality, offering a deep, rich sound that can be satisfying to type on. This combination of a "thud" or "soft knock" sound adds to the tactile experience, particularly for gamers who benefit from a more pronounced auditory feedback during gameplay. However, it is essential to note that the overall sound can vary significantly based on the type of keyboard and keycaps used, which can further influence the final acoustic output for both switches.
When considering the feel, the Briny switch remains undefined in its specific qualities, making it challenging to compare directly with the MX Speed Silver. The Speed Silver is described as having a textured feel, providing noticeable friction during each press. This texture can be appealing for users who prefer some tactile feedback while typing or gaming, as it contributes to the overall engagement of the keystroke. For those familiar with smoother linear switches, the Speed Silver might feel less fluid due to this added texture.
In summary, the Keygeek Briny linear switch offers a balanced sound profile, making it suitable for users looking for a neutral auditory experience, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver boasts a thocky, low-pitched sound that enhances the gaming experience with its satisfying auditory feedback. Although the Briny's feel is not explicitly mentioned, the Speed Silver is noted for its textured action that may appeal to those seeking tactile interaction. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences—especially in sound and feel—allowing users to choose based on their specific requirements, whether for casual typing or competitive gaming.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Keygeek Briny linear switches and Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switches ultimately depends on your specific preferences and use case. If you seek a more balanced sound profile and the satisfaction of a medium bottom-out force at 60 grams, the Briny may be the better option for you. It provides a well-rounded typing experience that caters well to general use, offering a pleasant auditory feedback while still being functional for gaming if you appreciate a little resistance in your keystrokes. On the other hand, if you’re a gamer prioritizing quick response times, the MX Speed Silver is engineered for speed with its low spring resistance and full-height activation. It is particularly advantageous in fast-paced gaming scenarios, where the rapid trigger can give you an edge. Additionally, the tactile feel of the Speed Silver can enhance your gaming experience with its textured characteristic, contributing to precise key presses. In summary, choose the Briny for a versatile and balanced typing experience or the Speed Silver when you need ultra-fast performance in gaming.
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