Keygeek Briny vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the realm of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can greatly influence both the typing experience and overall enjoyment of using the keyboard. The Keygeek Briny, a linear switch characterized by its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, is celebrated for its smooth keystrokes and balanced sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize speed and minimal friction during their typing sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom presents itself as a tactile switch, offering a distinct tactile bump that provides users with tactile feedback, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced sensation as they type and prefer a more engaged typing experience. While the Briny is often favored by gamers and fast typists for its fluidity, the Tom is well-suited for writers and programmers who appreciate the added feedback with each keystroke. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Keygeek Briny and the Outemu Tom exhibit fundamental differences in their top housing materials, with Briny opting for nylon and Tom utilizing polycarbonate. The choice of nylon in the Briny's top housing is attributed to its softer nature, which leads to a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing. This material tends to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Outemu Tom's use of polycarbonate results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This stiffer material not only produces a more clear and resonant sound but also enhances the overall typing experience, especially for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback. Aesthetically, the transparency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, providing a visually appealing aspect that is absent in the nylon-based Briny.
When examining the bottom housing, it is noteworthy that both the Keygeek Briny and the Outemu Tom utilize nylon. As a classic switch housing material, nylon is celebrated for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. This means that in both switches, the bottom housing will contribute similarly to the typing experience, offering a consistent feel and sound when bottoming out. The shared nylon material in the bottom housing helps to create a cohesive auditory experience between the two models, despite the contrasting characteristics of their top housings. Therefore, while the top housings differ in sound and feel, the nylon bottoms allow for a common ground in terms of sound absorption and tactile feedback.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in both the Keygeek Briny and the Outemu Tom provides an interesting juxtaposition that highlights how varying properties can influence a user's experience. The impact of the materials used in the top housing will primarily manifest in the sound produced upon releasing the keys, while the bottom housing's nylon will contribute to the sound upon bottoming out. As a result, users may find that while the Briny offers a softer, more rounded auditory experience overall due to its nylon top, the Tom enhances clarity and sharpness, appealing to those who appreciate a distinct and brighter sound. Balancing these variations, both models enable users to enjoy unique aspects of sound and feel, ultimately catering to differing preferences in typing tactile feedback.
Weight
The Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch exhibit differences in their actuation forces, with the Briny requiring 50 grams to actuate compared to the Tom's slightly heavier 55 grams. This suggests that typists and gamers who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions might gravitate toward the Briny switch, while those who favor a more substantial feel might find the Tom more appealing due to its increased actuation force. However, it's important to note that the bottom out force for the Outemu Tom switch is unavailable, making a direct comparison in that regard impossible. The Briny's bottom out force is measured at a medium 60 grams, which provides a definitive sense of resistance when fully depressed. Thus, while the Briny offers a well-rounded option for those seeking a balance between comfort and feedback, the heavier actuation force of the Outemu Tom may cater to enthusiasts desiring a more pronounced typing experience, assuming they are willing to accept the uncertainty of its bottom out characteristics.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, the Briny features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Tom has a slightly shorter distance of 3.3 mm. This indicates that the Briny switch allows for a deeper keystroke, making it preferable for users who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the Tom's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or those who prioritize faster response times, as it can lead to a more immediate execution of commands. Overall, with the Briny being the longer of the two at 3.6 mm and the Tom being the shorter at 3.3 mm, users should consider their typing preferences when choosing between these switches.
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 Outemu Tom comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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
The Keygeek Briny linear switch is known for producing a balanced sound profile, which means it tends to have a smooth and consistent auditory output when pressed. This makes the switch quite versatile, suitable for both gaming and typing without overwhelming noise that can distract you or others in a shared environment. Meanwhile, the Outemu Tom tactile switch does not have a defined sound quality in the same way as the Briny, so its auditory characteristics remain unknown. It's important to note that the actual sound produced by either switch can be influenced by factors like the choice of keyboard board and keycaps used, which play significant roles in the overall acoustic experience.
When it comes to feel, the Briny offers a smooth linear experience with no tactile bump, making it ideal for users who prefer a consistent keystroke without interruption. The lack of feedback can enhance the typing speed, as users do not have to account for any tactile response in their rhythm. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom tactile switch is designed to provide a noticeable tactile bump, enhancing the typing experience with a distinct feeling at the actuation point. This tactile feedback can be beneficial for typists who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke, making it easier to know when the key has been pressed effectively.
In conclusion, the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. The Briny's balanced sound profile and smooth keystroke make it appealing for users seeking an unobtrusive typing experience, while the Tom's tactile feedback offers a different sensory engagement that some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preferred sound and feel characteristics, but both switches can deliver excellent performance tailored to your typing and gaming needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a smooth, linear feel and enjoy the balanced sound profile that the Briny offers, you will likely appreciate its medium actuation force of 60 grams, providing a satisfying experience for both typing and gaming. The UPE stem and PA66 bottom housing combine to create a sound that many users find pleasing and unobtrusive. On the other hand, if you lean towards tactile feedback that enhances your typing experience, the Outemu Tom would be a better fit—though it lacks specified details, tactile switches are generally favored for their distinct feedback that many find enjoyable and comforting. Your choice will also depend on whether you favor the smooth actuation of the Briny for rapid key presses or the tactile experience that the Tom switch promises. Ultimately, consider what sensation and sound profile you desire, as both switches cater to different preferences, ensuring you find the right match for your typing or gaming setup.
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