Keygeek Briny vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Briny and the TTC Speed Silver both stand out in the realm of linear switches, each offering unique characteristics suited to different typing preferences. The Keygeek Briny is renowned for its balanced sound profile, thanks to its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, making it an excellent choice for those who value a harmonious auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver caters to enthusiasts seeking a fast and precise typing experience, featuring a light-medium level of resistance and a reduced travel distance that facilitates quick actuation. This makes the Speed Silver ideal for gamers and typists who prioritize speed and responsiveness. While both switches provide smooth keystrokes devoid of tactile bumps, they cater to distinct user needs—whether one prefers a balanced sound with the Briny or the rapid actuation of the Speed Silver. 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
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Briny and the TTC Speed Silver switches, significant differences emerge particularly in the composition of the top housing. The Briny utilizes a nylon top housing, which is celebrated for its acoustic properties that produce a deeper, fuller sound profile during typing. This softer plastic effectively absorbs sound, leading to a more subdued auditory experience. In contrast, the Speed Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and transparency. This material generates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, which is more resonant due to its stiffer nature. The choice of polycarbonate also enhances the switch's compatibility with RGB lighting, making it visually appealing as the light shines through the clear housing.
On the other hand, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing, as both the Briny and Speed Silver utilize nylon. This uniformity in the bottom housing means that both switches deliver a similar auditory experience regarding the bottom-out sound and feel, which is influenced predominantly by this softer material. As such, users can expect a deeper and richer sound when the key is fully pressed down, despite the contrasting characteristics of the top housings. This shared material helps to create a familiar tactile sensation when typing, allowing users to feel the benefits of nylon's sound-absorbing qualities regardless of the top housing's differences.
Ultimately, these variations in housing materials contribute significantly to the overall typing experience of the Briny and Speed Silver switches. The contrasting top housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile—one aiming for a warm, muted ambiance and the other pursuing clarity and brightness. However, the consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing harmonizes their performance, especially in terms of the feel and sound when actuated. Thus, users can enjoy distinct auditory profiles from each switch while retaining a common tactile experience attributable to the nylon used in the bottom housing.
Weight
The Keygeek Briny linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, which can significantly influence the typing experience. The Briny requires a greater actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Speed Silver's 45 grams, making the latter the lighter option that may be more comfortable for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming. In terms of bottom out force, the Briny also has a heavier feel at 60 grams versus the Speed Silver's 55 grams. This means that while both switches fall within the medium to medium-light range, the Briny provides a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Conversely, the lighter Speed Silver may be preferred by users seeking a less strenuous typing experience. Overall, the distinctions between these switches highlight their suitability for different user preferences regarding actuation and bottom out responses.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Keygeek Briny linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the TTC Speed Silver linear switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference means that for gamers or users who prioritize quick key presses and rapid response times, the Speed Silver might be the more appealing choice due to its shorter travel distance. Conversely, those who favor a more robust feel while typing may appreciate the Briny's longer travel distance, which adds a sense of depth and stability to each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance: the Briny provides a more substantial feel, while the Speed Silver caters to those seeking a quicker response.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 the sound profile, the Keygeek Briny linear switch offers a balanced auditory experience thanks to its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing. This balance allows users to enjoy a pleasing sound that neither overpowers nor fades into the background while typing. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver switch is characterized by its neutral sound profile, which strikes a chord with many mechanical keyboard users. This switch has a moderate actuation force and sound level, making it versatile for different environments, whether it's a bustling office or a serene home workspace. Both switches provide a pleasant acoustic environment, with the Briny leaning towards a balanced tone and the Speed Silver offering a more neutral sound.
In terms of feel, the Keygeek Briny switch provides a unique typing experience, although specific details were not provided. The TTC Speed Silver switch, however, is noted for its mild and polished characteristics, which create a gentle and refined typing sensation. This switch's light-medium resistance and smooth finish are particularly appealing for users who appreciate a less aggressive tactile feedback. The polished nature of the Speed Silver ensures reduced friction, enhancing the overall typing experience. While the exact feel of the Briny switch is unclear, it is likely to provide a different but complementary experience to the smoother, more accessible feel of the Speed Silver.
Overall, both the Keygeek Briny and TTC Speed Silver switches are excellent options that cater to different preferences within the linear switch category. The Briny's balanced sound and potentially unique feel may appeal to users looking for a tailored experience, while the Speed Silver's neutral sound and milder, polished feel are ideal for those seeking speed and comfort. Users could find satisfaction with either switch, but their distinct qualities ultimately dictate which option will best meet specific typing preferences and scenarios.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a medium bottom-out force and a balanced sound profile that offers a satisfying, albeit slightly heavier feel, the Briny is an excellent choice. It is particularly suited for users who enjoy a more deliberate typing experience, making it a great fit for both casual and serious typing sessions. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a faster, more responsive keyboard feel with a lighter actuation force and a smooth, polished experience, the Speed Silver is your ideal switch. Its reduced travel distance allows for quicker key presses, making it particularly advantageous for gamers or typists who prioritize speed and precision. In essence, choose the Briny for a balanced, sturdy feel, and opt for the Speed Silver when speed and effortless key presses are your top priorities.
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