Keygeek Briny vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, switch choice plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience, and two notable contenders in the linear switch category are the Keygeek Briny and the Akko V3 Piano Pro. The Briny, with its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, is celebrated for its balanced sound profile, making it an excellent option for users seeking a dependable and subtle auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro stands out with its long pole design, offering a snappy sound signature that imparts a lively, crisp quality to each keypress, complemented by a smooth actuation for an enjoyable tactile feel. While both switches cater to linear enthusiasts, their distinctive sound characteristics and feel offer unique advantages depending on individual preferences. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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
20mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Briny and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, both switches use nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material is not only classic but also offers a unique auditory experience. The use of nylon is notable for its sound-dampening qualities, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Since both the Keygeek Briny and the Akko V3 Piano Pro share this nylon housing composition, users can expect similar acoustic outcomes while typing, with a softer and more rounded sound due to the material's ability to absorb sound very effectively.
The similarities in the nylon construction of both switches lead to consistent typing experiences, particularly regarding the sound. Given that both the Briny and V3 Piano Pro utilize nylon for their complete housing, the resultant sound characteristics during key presses and releases will mirror one another. Users will find that the typing experience on both switches can elicit a satisfying aural feedback, attributed to the nylon's inherent properties. This commonality paves the way for those who prioritize auditory feedback in their typing experience, as the sound profile will harmoniously align between these two switch models.
However, the differences in design, such as actuation force, switch travel, or other internal mechanisms, may still influence the overall typing feel beyond just sound. While the nylon housings ensure that sound absorption and depth of tone remain constant across both switch types, it would be essential for users to delve into the specifics of each switch's characteristics to define their personal preference accurately. Thus, while the material alignment promotes similar sound outputs, other factors should be considered to understand the complete tactile experience each switch offers.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Briny requires a force of 50 grams to actuate, whereas the V3 Piano Pro is lighter at 45 grams, making it the more suitable choice for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, especially during extended periods of use. In terms of bottom out force, the Briny also exhibits a slightly heavier resistance at 60 grams compared to the V3 Piano Pro's 55 grams. This means that users of the Briny may enjoy a more substantial feel when bottoming out, which can enhance the typing experience for those who favor a firmer keypress. Overall, while both switches are classified as medium or medium-light, the Briny is the heavier option, providing a more pronounced push feel, while the V3 Piano Pro caters to users seeking a lighter touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, the Briny measures 3.6 mm, while the V3 Piano Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This minuscule difference means that users may experience a marginally quicker actuation with the V3 Piano Pro, making it potentially more suitable for gamers seeking rapid response times. Conversely, the Briny's longer travel distance of 3.6 mm might appeal to those who prefer a more traditional feel, providing a bit more feedback and depth when pressing the key. Overall, while the switches are closely matched, the Briny offers a slightly more substantial experience, whereas the V3 Piano Pro promotes faster actuation for those who prefer shorter distances.
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 Akko V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro for $3.10.
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 produces a balanced sound profile, making it suitable for users who prefer a more subdued auditory experience without excessive noise. The sound produced is generally characterized by a moderate pitch and refined quality, allowing for a pleasant typing session. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a distinctly clacky sound, described as sharp and snappy, providing a crisp, bright auditory feedback with each keystroke. Additionally, the Piano Pro has a resonant quality, delivering a higher-pitched and immersive sound profile that can enhance the overall typing experience, though the exact sound can still be influenced by various external factors like the keyboard build and keycap material.
When it comes to feel, the Briny switch offers a typing experience that aligns with the preferences of those who favor linear switches, but specific descriptions of its tactile feedback haven’t been provided in the information. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro switches excel in providing a combination of bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky sensations. This variety contributes to a lively and elastic feedback that can make typing feel dynamic and invigorating. The creamy and polished characteristics also ensure a smooth typing experience with minimal friction, making it ideal for extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, while the Keygeek Briny linear switch offers a balanced sound profile and an unspecified feel, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch stands out for its snappy sound and diverse tactile sensations. If you're considering switches, the Briny will provide a more muted sound experience, while the V3 Piano Pro will deliver an engaging auditory and tactile performance. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a more refined sound or a lively and textured keyboard feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch ultimately boils down to your personal preferences regarding actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier actuation with a balanced sound profile, the Briny, with its 60-gram bottom-out force, might be the ideal choice for you. It offers a smooth and stable typing experience that caters well to those who appreciate a medium resistance while typing. On the other hand, if you lean toward a lighter feel and enjoy a lively auditory experience, the V3 Piano Pro with its 55-gram bottom-out force will likely suit you better. Its clacky and resonant sound signature brings an engaging element to each keystroke, while its bouncy and creamy feel allows for a smooth and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing style and preferences—whether you prioritize a balanced yet robust experience with the Briny or seek a lively and smooth touch with the V3 Piano Pro.
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