Keygeek Briny vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two compelling options to consider are the Keygeek Briny, a linear switch, and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), a hall effect switch. The Briny switch is renowned for its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, which together produce a balanced sound profile ideal for users who favor smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes. Linear switches like the Briny are often preferred by gamers for their quick actuation and responsiveness. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) boasts a unique design that delivers a delightfully balanced typing experience with a neutral sound signature, often sought after for its satisfying "thock" sound. With a dustproof stem that reduces wobble, these switches provide a refined tactile sensation that caters to typing aficionados. Both switches cater to different preferences – the smoothness of the Briny versus the tactile pleasure of the Sticky Rice (V2). However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Keygeek Briny and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) exhibit distinct differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influence their sound profiles and acoustic characteristics. The Briny's nylon top housing is known for producing a deeper, fuller sound, attributed to nylon's softer composition that absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics like polycarbonate. This results in a rounded sound that creates a warm typing experience, often preferred by those who gravitate towards a more muted acoustic feedback. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which generates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. Polycarbonate's rigidity enhances clarity and resonance, providing a crisp auditory experience desirable among users who appreciate pronounced feedback and the aesthetic appeal of RGB lighting through a clear housing.
On the other hand, both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, creating an interesting dynamic. As with the top housing, the nylon bottom housing in both the Briny and the Sticky Rice (V2) delivers a deeper, more rounded sound profile. This characteristic means that while the Briny's overall sound will be fuller due to its nylon top, the impact of each switch's bottom housing will still ensure a consistent auditory quality across both switches, especially at the bottom-out position when a key is fully pressed down. Essentially, users can expect a familiar sound experience when typing, despite the variance in their top housing materials.
In terms of sonic experience during typing, this differentiation leads to a unique interplay between the two materials. While Keygeek's Briny, with its nylon top, focuses on creating warmth and depth, the Sticky Rice (V2) offers precision and brightness through its polycarbonate top. This duality showcases the importance of recognizing how the top and bottom housings complement one another in producing varied sound profiles. Ultimately, both switches present an appealing mix of tactile feedback and auditory delight, ensuring typing satisfaction regardless of the material differences. If someone is looking to achieve a balance in sound across different styles, understanding these materials will allow them to select a switch that fulfills their specific auditory and typing preferences.
Weight
The Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch differ notably in their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different typing preferences. The Briny requires a medium actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial feel that some users may find satisfying for a tactile typing experience. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) is lighter, with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer less resistance when typing, which can be advantageous for extended use during work or gaming sessions. Thus, while both switches serve their purposes, the Briny is better suited for users seeking a stronger push feel, whereas the Sticky Rice caters to those who favor a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Briny linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Briny offers a bit more depth, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial tactile experience when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Sticky Rice (V2), with its shorter travel distance, may be more attractive to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more immediate actuation. Both switches cater to different preferences: the Briny provides a deeper feel, which some users might appreciate for its hearty feedback, while the Sticky Rice (V2) aligns with the trend towards shorter travel distances, suiting those who favor a more immediate and responsive feel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize depth or responsiveness in your 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 Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sticky Rice (V2) for $6.79.
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 delivers a balanced sound profile thanks to its UPE stem and PA66 bottom housing, making it versatile across various setups. This balanced quality may appeal to users who prefer a more neutral auditory experience without any overwhelming high or low frequencies. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch offers a neutral sound signature that embodies the "thock" sound that enthusiasts often seek. This hint of "thock" adds a nice depth to the auditory feedback while still maintaining a relatively subdued sound, perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying acoustic experience without being too loud. Both switches present sound profiles that can be enjoyed with various boards and keycaps, allowing them to cater to different preferences.
In terms of feel, the Briny is known for offering a smooth keystroke that is characteristic of linear switches, providing an enjoyable and uninterrupted typing experience. Its design emphasizes uniformity throughout the keypress, ensuring that users will encounter a consistent sensation with each stroke. Meanwhile, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switch features a super smooth keystroke due to its dustproof stem, dramatically reducing any unwanted wobble and enhancing performance. This refinement in feel makes the Sticky Rice a compelling alternative for users who appreciate a smooth and tactile experience, blending comfort with performance. Both switches are designed to offer a fluid and enjoyable typing sensation, although the emphasis on tactile feedback may differ slightly, appealing to particular preferences.
In conclusion, both the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch provide users with unique yet enjoyable auditory and tactile experiences. While the Briny delivers balanced sound and smoothness characteristic of linear switches, the Sticky Rice manages to offer a refined feel paired with a satisfying "thock." Ultimately, personal preference will play a significant role in determining which switch better suits an individual's typing style, as both provide high-quality experiences that can coexist in a keyboard enthusiast's collection.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch will hinge on your personal typing preferences and what aspects of a switch matter most to you. If you favor a medium bottom-out force at 60 grams and desire a switch with a balanced sound profile, the Briny is a solid choice, offering a satisfying response for a wide range of typing and gaming scenarios. It is especially appealing if you appreciate a robust sound without being overly loud. Conversely, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of just 50 grams, the Sticky Rice (V2) provides a super smooth keystroke that enhances your typing experience, combined with a neutral sound signature that achieves that much sought-after "thock." This switch is ideal for those who prioritize a refined tactile sensation and a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, consider what feels best for your typing style—whether you seek the medium resistance and balanced sound of the Briny or the lighter, smooth sensation of the Sticky Rice (V2). Your preferences will guide you toward the switch that complements your typing habits the most.
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