Keygeek Briny vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Keygeek Briny and the Outemu Dustproof Purple represent two distinct yet appealing options, each catering to different typing preferences. The Briny, a linear switch renowned for its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, offers a smooth and consistent keystroke with a balanced sound profile, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who value speed and fluidity without the distraction of a tactile bump. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Purple, a tactile switch, provides a noticeable feedback at the actuation point, delivering a satisfying typing experience that many find beneficial for both typing accuracy and satisfaction, especially for those who prefer a tactile response while writing or programming. Ultimately, the decision hinges on whether you prioritize smoothness and quiet operation or tactile feedback and pronounced responsiveness. 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

Outemu Dustproof Purple Tactile

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the Keygeek Briny and the Outemu Dustproof Purple, the distinctions in their top housing materials significantly impact the sound profiles produced during typing. The Briny utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its ability to deliver a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature. This characteristic allows the nylon to absorb sound waves effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile that many users find comforting during extended typing sessions. Conversely, the Dustproof Purple is equipped with a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance, making it ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced auditory experience. Thus, users can expect different auditory feedback from each switch type due to the fundamental differences in their top housing materials.

In terms of their bottom housing, both the Briny and the Dustproof Purple employ nylon, aligning them in sound characteristics at this level. The essence of nylon's properties remains unchanged; its softer texture contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during key presses. This consistency means that both switches will exhibit a similar sound experience when it comes to bottoming out. As a result, users might find that the tactile feedback from both switches remains similar, even though the overall auditory experience may differ due to the contrasting top housing materials.

The combination of these materials illustrates how each component of a switch affects the end-user experience. Since each housing type contributes uniquely to sound quality—nylon delivering warmth and polycarbonate offering clarity—the interaction between the two in each switch creates a varied yet rich typing experience. While the bottom housing might harbor those full-bodied sounds common to nylon, the different top housing results in shifts that could either enhance or soften the overall auditory persona of each switch. For those seeking a hybrid experience, combining the Briny and Dustproof Purple in a keyboard might yield a delightful mix of acoustic properties, allowing for a dynamic range of sounds while typing.

Weight

When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Briny has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Dustproof Purple's 55 grams, making the Briny the preferable choice for those who favor a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, both switches share a relatively close bottom out force, with the Briny at 60 grams and the Dustproof Purple at 65 grams. This indicates that while the Briny offers a gentler touch for initial keystrokes, the Dustproof Purple provides a more substantial push when fully pressed down, appealing to users who appreciate a firmer typing experience. Overall, if you prefer a lighter touch and a slightly softer bottom out, the Briny is the better option, whereas the Dustproof Purple is suited for those who enjoy a bit more resistance.

Travel distance

The Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch have differing travel distances, with the Briny measuring 3.6 mm and the Dustproof Purple at 4 mm. This means that the Briny offers a shorter travel distance, which can lead to a more responsive feel, making it particularly appealing to gamers seeking faster actuation times. In contrast, the Dustproof Purple, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more pronounced tactile feedback and a satisfying depth for those who enjoy a more deliberate keystroke. If you prefer a snappier response, the Briny would be the ideal choice; however, if you favor the depth and feedback of a traditional switch, the Dustproof Purple would be more suitable.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Keygeek Briny linear switch produces a balanced sound profile, thanks to its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing. While it offers a pleasing acoustic experience, the specific tonal qualities and volume levels are often influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps. The Outemu Dustproof Purple, on the other hand, lacks a defined reputation for sound, leaving its auditory characteristics largely unremarkable. As such, it's hard to compare sound profiles directly since the Dustproof Purple doesn't have a clear benchmark.

When considering the feel of each switch, the Keygeek Briny is known for its smooth actuation, characteristic of linear switches, making it ideal for users seeking a seamless typing experience without tactile feedback. Conversely, the Outemu Dustproof Purple is a tactile switch, designed to provide a noticeable bump during actuation, which many typists prefer for better feedback while typing. This difference creates distinct typing experiences: the Briny offers a fluid and uninterrupted typing motion, while the Dustproof Purple emphasizes tactile engagement and feedback with each keystroke.

In conclusion, the Keygeek Briny provides a well-rounded auditory experience and a smooth linear feel, catering to those who appreciate seamless typing with an appealing sound. Meanwhile, the Outemu Dustproof Purple, despite its lack of auditory distinction, offers a tactile feedback experience beloved by many. Ultimately, your choice will depend on personal preferences between smoothness and tactile feedback, as well as your priorities for sound quality in your mechanical keyboard setup.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you're looking for a smooth and balanced typing experience, the Briny’s medium bottom out force of 60 grams makes it an excellent option for both gaming and typing, allowing for a comfortable keystroke without too much resistance. Additionally, its sound profile is well-balanced, making it a great choice for environments where you want minimal noise. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile experience with a bit more resistance, the Dustproof Purple with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams may suit your needs better. This switch can provide a satisfying tactile feedback that lets you feel each key press, beneficial for typing accuracy, especially in longer sessions. As such, your decision should be influenced by whether you value a smoother, quieter experience or a more pronounced tactile feedback in your mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Keygeek Briny Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Dustproof Purple Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more