Keygeek Briny vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Keygeek Briny and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) both offer unique advantages tailored to different typing preferences. The Briny, featuring an UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, is renowned for its balanced sound profile that strikes a pleasant middle ground, making it a versatile choice for both gaming and typing. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen (V2) boasts an extremely quiet sound and is characterized by its smooth action, delivering a pillowy feel that appeals to users who prefer a muted keystroke experience. While the Briny’s balanced acoustics may suit those who appreciate a bit of auditory feedback, the Silent Frozen (V2) is perfect for environments where silence is paramount, thanks to its thocky and subtle characteristics. 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
39g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Keygeek Briny and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) reveal distinct characteristics that influence their acoustic profiles and tactile feedback. The Briny employs nylon for both its top and bottom housings, renowned for producing a deep and fuller sound due to its softer and more absorbent nature. This results in a sound profile that is notably duller and rounder, creating a muted typing experience that many enthusiasts appreciate for its comfort and sound quality. Conversely, the Silent Frozen (V2) utilizes polycarbonate for both housings, a material recognized for its stiffness that lends itself to a higher-pitched, crisper sound. This difference in material choice leads to contrasting auditory experiences, with the Briny favoring warmth and resonance while the Frozen (V2) emphasizes clarity and brightness.
When examining the bottom housings, both switches maintain their respective material signatures, further solidifying their acoustic identities. The nylon bottom housing of the Briny complements its top housing by reinforcing the deeper sound profile, while the Silent Frozen (V2)’s polycarbonate bottom housing aligns with its sharper sound signature. This differentiation means that when typing on the Briny, users will encounter a rich, rounded sound during bottom-outs, whereas the Frozen (V2) offers a more resonant and vibrant impact. Ultimately, the contrasting materials make a marked difference in the typing experience, with each switch appealing to different preferences in sound and feel.
Despite their differences, the potential for achieving similar acoustic results exists if one wishes to mod either switch. For instance, if a user were to introduce dampening materials to the Silent Frozen (V2) or alternatively tune the Briny for a more prominent high-end response, they may be able to balance the contrasts between fuller and crisper sound profiles, effectively merging attributes of both designs. Therefore, while the inherent properties of nylon and polycarbonate define the core character of each switch, users can customize their switches to create an experience that resonates with their personal typing sound preferences, highlighting the versatility and adaptability of mechanical keyboard components.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Briny switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium-force switch. In contrast, the Silent Frozen (V2) features a significantly lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a softer touch during typing or gaming. As a result, while the Briny offers a more substantial and heavier feel that some typists or gamers might appreciate for a tactile experience, the Silent Frozen (V2) allows for extended periods of use without fatigue, appealing to users seeking a lighter switch. In essence, if you're looking for a switch that provides a heavier tactile response, the Briny is the better choice, while the Silent Frozen (V2) suits those who favor a lighter pressing experience.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Briny linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Briny offers a more pronounced keypress, which can provide a satisfying depth for those who prefer a heartier feel in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen (V2), with its shorter travel distance, allows for quicker response times, making it a suitable choice for gamers seeking efficiency in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the difference in travel distances—just 0.1 mm—highlights how minor variations can influence the overall feel and responsiveness of a switch, catering to different user preferences. If you're in search of more responsiveness, the Silent Frozen (V2) would be the better pick, while the Briny might be preferable for those who enjoy a deeper keypress.
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 TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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 features a balanced sound profile thanks to its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing. While details regarding its specific acoustic qualities are not provided, the implication is that it sits comfortably within a neutral auditory range, offering a pleasant and unobtrusive typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) is characterized by an extremely quiet sound profile that leans towards a thocky, low-pitched tone. This switch is designed to produce a deep and muted sound, which minimizes the clack commonly associated with mechanical keyboards, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize discretion in shared environments.
In terms of feel, the Briny switch does not have specific descriptors provided, but one can infer that it likely aims for a smooth typing experience typical of linear switches, focusing on uninterrupted key travel. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) boasts a richly textured feel, described as creamy and buttery, leading to an incredibly smooth and effortless typing experience. Its feathery actuation and subtle feedback allow prolonged use with minimal fatigue, complemented by a polished surface that enhances the overall tactile interaction. Thus, the Silent Frozen (V2) may offer a more luxurious feel compared to the more neutral or undefined experience of the Briny.
Overall, while the Keygeek Briny linear switch provides a balanced sound profile, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) excels in its whisper-quiet acoustic performance and lush tactile feel. If you are drawn to a less intrusive typing experience in sound and excel in smoothness and comfort, the Silent Frozen (V2) would be your go-to. However, if you prefer something more standard or are open to experimentation with different boards and keycaps to shape the acoustic experience, the Briny may still serve you well. Ultimately, both switches cater to linear enthusiasts, but their distinct auditory and tactile signatures make them suited to different preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch ultimately depends on your individual preferences and usage scenarios. If you're looking for a balanced sound profile and a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, the Briny is a great option, particularly for those who enjoy a deeper, rich sound that offers a satisfying tactile feedback during typing. Its material composition enhances durability and contributes to a consistent feel, making it suitable for both typists and gamers who appreciate a bit of feedback with each keystroke. Conversely, if you prioritize silence and a light typing experience, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) would be the better choice. With a light actuation force of only 43 grams, it ensures minimal effort during long typing sessions, coupled with a creamy, buttery feel that glides effortlessly under your fingers. Its extremely quiet sound profile makes it ideal for shared workspaces or late-night gaming sessions where noise is a concern. Ultimately, consider your typing style, noise preferences, and the environments in which you'll be using these switches to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard.
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