Keygeek Briny vs. Outemu Red

Overview

When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular linear options are the Keygeek Briny and the Outemu Red, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Briny is renowned for its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, which combine to deliver a balanced sound profile that many users find pleasing. This makes it an ideal choice for those who appreciate auditory feedback without the harshness often associated with other switches. On the other hand, while the Outemu Red lacks standout features, it is well-regarded for its smooth actuation and overall affordability, making it a go-to option for budget-conscious gamers and typists seeking a reliable linear experience. Ultimately, your choice between the Briny and the Red will depend on your priorities, whether they lean towards sound quality or cost-effectiveness. 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 Red Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the Keygeek Briny and the Outemu Red switches in terms of housing materials, it’s essential to note the distinctions between their top housings. The Briny features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. Nylon’s sound-absorbing properties contribute to a muted, rounded auditory experience, making the typing feel more cushioned. In contrast, the Outemu Red's polycarbonate top housing yields a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is primarily because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that enhances clarity and resonance. Consequently, while the Briny's nylon top promotes a warm sound environment, the Red’s polycarbonate offers a crisper auditory experience, ideal for users seeking higher clarity in their keystrokes.

When examining the bottom housing of both switches, there is a notable similarity: both the Briny and the Red utilize nylon material for their bottom housings. This commonality results in a deeper and fuller sound profile from both switches, as the nylon bottoms absorb sound effectively, enhancing the plush feel of bottoming out during key presses. As a result, no matter which switch you choose, you can expect a cohesive experience in terms of bottom-out sound and the tactile feel created by the nylon—leading to a consistent typing sensation that some users might find comforting across different switch designs.

It’s important to recognize that the differences in housing materials play a unique role in the overall typing experience of each switch. The combination of a nylon bottom with a nylon top in the Briny provides a uniform, muted sound range, while the Outemu Red's distinctive mix—featuring a nylon bottom paired with a polycarbonate top—creates a balanced interaction of sound qualities. The impact of each housing can be felt distinctly during typing, where the bottom housing influences the bottom-out feel, and the top housing shapes the sound released upon key release. Thus, even though both switches have a shared nylon bottom housing that aids in achieving a deeper sound profile, the presence of different top housing materials leads to varied auditory experiences that can cater to different user preferences.

Weight

When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, we see notable differences in their actuation forces. The Briny requires an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Outemu Red is lighter at 46 grams. This difference indicates that users may find the Outemu Red easier to press, potentially allowing for longer typing sessions or gaming, making it a good choice for those who prefer a lighter touch. However, regarding bottom out forces, the Briny has a bottom out force of 60 grams, and the Outemu Red, slightly heavier, bottoms out at 62 grams. This means that while the actuation forces favor the Outemu Red for ease of use, the bottom out experience may feel more substantial with the Briny due to its lower force requirement. Thus, users seeking a lighter typing experience should lean towards the Outemu Red, while those who favor a more substantial key feel may prefer the Briny.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, we find a notable difference. The Briny features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Briny switch offers a shorter travel, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking quicker response times, as shorter distances generally allow for faster key actuation. Conversely, the Red switch provides a more traditional and slightly deeper feel, which may appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced key press. Ultimately, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Keygeek Briny would be the ideal choice; however, if you lean towards a more substantial typing experience, the Outemu Red would be preferable.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Keygeek Briny linear switch is noted for its balanced sound profile, which contributes to a more harmonious acoustic experience during typing. This characteristic is enhanced by the UPE stem and PA66 bottom housing, making it suitable for users who prefer a pleasant auditory feedback without distracting noise. On the other hand, the Outemu Red linear switch lacks a specific sound profile description, leaving its acoustic qualities somewhat ambiguous. However, it is important to remember that the sound produced by any switch is also heavily influenced by additional factors like the choice of keyboard and keycaps.

When looking at the feel of the switches, the Briny is recognized for its overall smoothness and consistent keypress, providing a comforting experience that is ideal for both typing and gaming. This smoothness is often preferred by those looking for a fluid typing experience. The Outemu Red's feel, however, is also generally regarded as smooth but lacks the additional context that would compare its tactile experience against the Briny. As a result, while both switches may deliver a linear feel, the Briny has an established reputation for comfort that might appeal more to discerning users.

In conclusion, the Keygeek Briny linear switch stands out with its balanced sound and smooth typing experience, making it a compelling choice for various users. The Outemu Red linear switch, while it offers a smooth feel as well, does not have as much available information regarding its sound profile or unique characteristics. Ultimately, if you choose either switch, expect to experience a similar linear typing feel, but for nuanced sound and a richer user experience, the Briny edge out the competition.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Keygeek Briny and the Outemu Red linear switches, it's essential to consider your personal preferences and typing experiences. If you value a well-rounded sound profile and a build quality that features UPE and PA66 materials, you would likely enjoy the Briny switch. Its balanced sound can enhance your overall typing experience, making it a superior choice for those who appreciate a harmonious auditory feedback while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a more straightforward, budget-friendly option and are indifferent to the sound characteristics, the Outemu Red may be suitable for you, especially if you’re looking for a switch with slightly higher bottom-out force at 62 grams. Additionally, if you are a newbie just venturing into the world of mechanical keyboards and want an efficient switch for gaming and general use without focusing too much on acoustics, the Red switch could meet your needs. Ultimately, your choice should align with what you find most comfortable and enjoyable during your typing or gaming sessions.

Mentioned in this article

Keygeek Briny Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Red Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more