Keygeek Briny vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the merits of various options. One popular choice is the Keygeek Briny switch, known for its unique construction featuring a UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing. This design produces a balanced sound profile that appeals to those who prefer a more neutral auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie switch stands out with its all-POM composition, offering a thocky sound signature and exceptional smoothness during key presses. It's an excellent choice for users seeking a lightweight touch coupled with a rich auditory experience, characterized by descriptors like 'buttery,' 'creamy,' and 'subdued.' While both switches cater to linear enthusiasts, each provides a distinct typing experience shaped by their materials and sound profiles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Keygeek Briny and the Gateron Smoothie exhibit distinct differences that influence their acoustic characteristics and overall typing experience. The Briny utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which contributes to a sound profile that is notably deeper and fuller. The inherent softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound waves more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a typing sound that is described as duller and rounder. In contrast, the Smoothie employs POM material for both its top and bottom housings. POM, or polyoxymethylene, is known for its durability and unique acoustic properties, leading to a sound that is also deep yet distinctively muted and pleasing. These material differences create unique auditory experiences, even though both switches lean toward richer, deeper sound profiles.
Moreover, the differing impacts of the housings are significant for the typing experience. The Briny's dual nylon construction means that the qualities of the material will be felt throughout the entire actuation process, from keypress to release. Consequently, users might notice a more consistent sound and feel as they type, enhancing the perception of smoothness and fullness. The Smoothie's POM housings, while still maintaining a muted sound, distribute the acoustic qualities differently. The top housing will largely dictate the sound profile when releasing a key, while the bottom housing influences the feel and sound on bottoming out. This split in impact means that the Gateron Smoothie will provide a different overall experience even if the general sound depth is similar.
Ultimately, those seeking similar auditory and tactile experiences might find both switches appealing, yet they would need to appreciate the nuances in each design. While both Briny and Smoothie utilize materials that enhance deeper sound profiles, their distinct compositions lead to unique characteristics. If a user prefers the rounder feel and sound of nylon, the Briny is the clear choice. However, if they favor POM’s unique acoustic signature with a slightly more distinct sound dampening, the Smoothie would be better suited. Understanding these subtle contrasts will help typists choose the switch that best fits their preferences, depending on whether they prioritize consistency, sound dampening qualities, or specific auditory characteristics during different phases of the keystroke.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation forces, with the Briny requiring a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Smoothie’s lighter 40 grams. This means that those who prefer a lighter switch for longer typing sessions or extensive gaming may find the Smoothie more suitable, as it requires less force to engage. In contrast, the Briny offers a more substantial typing experience thanks to its medium weight, appealing to users who enjoy a firmer push feel. While the bottom out force for the Smoothie is unknown, the Briny has a measured bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating that users will experience a noticeable change when bottoming out on this switch. Overall, the choice between these two switches will heavily depend on personal preference for typing feel, with the Briny being the heavier option and the Smoothie providing a lighter alternative.
Travel distance
Both the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that the distance you feel when pressing down on either key will be the same. This similarity suggests that users can expect a comparable experience in terms of key feel and responsiveness, regardless of which switch they opt for. Since both switches have the same travel distance, they should deliver similar results in typing performance and tactile feedback, making them equally suitable for those seeking a consistent linear switch experience.
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 Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 is recognized for its balanced sound profile, which suggests a harmonious blend that is neither overly loud nor too muted. This provides an ideal auditory experience for those who enjoy a clean typing sound without distracting noise. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie offers a thocky sound signature characterized by a deep, rich, and satisfying tone when pressed. Its low-pitched quality delivers a bass-heavy resonance that adds depth, while the subdued nature of the switch contributes to a more subtle auditory experience. When typing on the Smoothie, one can expect a satisfying thud or soft knock, creating a distinct sound experience that can be appealing to many users.
When considering the feel, the Keygeek Briny switch is notably absent of detailed descriptions regarding its tactile characteristics, leaving its overall typing sensation still somewhat ambiguous. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes. The Smoothie is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing a seamless and effortless typing experience. This level of smoothness can be attributed to its design and material composition, resulting in a delightful sensation as fingers glide effortlessly across the keys.
In conclusion, both the Keygeek Briny and Gateron Smoothie linear switches cater to different auditory and tactile preferences. While the Briny boasts a balanced sound profile, the Smoothie delivers a more thocky sound with deeper resonance. The absence of specific details regarding the Briny's feel leaves room for personal exploration, while the Smoothie's buttery, creamy, and silky touch enhances the overall typing experience. Ultimately, enthusiasts seeking either balanced audio or an immersive tactile experience will find what they need, aligning their choice with the specific qualities they prioritize in mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium actuation force combined with a balanced sound profile, the Briny would be an excellent choice. Its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing create an even sound that caters well to typists looking for a consistent auditory experience. However, if you are drawn to a softer, thocky sound, the Smoothie's all-POM construction and lightweight touch might be more your speed. The Smoothie excels in providing a buttery, creamy feel that offers a seamless typing experience, perfect for those who value smoothness and a rich auditory feedback. Therefore, consider what aspects matter most to you—whether it’s the actuation force, sound profile, or overall smoothness—when making your decision. Each switch has its distinct advantages, ensuring that your choice will resonate with your unique typing preferences.
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