Keygeek Briny vs. HMX SU

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Briny and the HMX SU stand out as two compelling linear options, each with its unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Briny, designed with an UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, is celebrated for its balanced sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who seek a harmonious typing experience without excessive noise. In contrast, the HMX SU, featuring a full PA12 housing and paired with a T5 stem, offers a subtly deeper sound profile that may appeal to users looking for a more robust auditory feedback while maintaining a linear response. While both switches promise smooth key presses ideal for gaming and typing, they provide distinct auditory and tactile experiences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Keygeek Briny Linear

HMX SU Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Briny and the HMX SU, it is evident that both models utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material is recognized in the mechanical keyboard community as a classic and preferred option, particularly due to its acoustic properties. Both the Briny and the SU provide a sound profile characterized by a deeper and fuller resonance, attributable to nylon's softer texture. This construction ensures that typing on either model results in a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the overall auditory experience when using the keyboard.

In terms of housing design, the shared use of nylon in both the top and bottom sections of the Keygeek Briny and the HMX SU leads to similar tactile experiences during keypresses. Since both switches exhibit an analogous sound absorption characteristic, users can expect consistent performance irrespective of the model. However, the impact of each housing on the sound and feel does differ slightly depending on the user’s interaction with the keyboard. While the bottom housing contributes more significantly to the sound when bottoming out, the top housing's acoustic influence is more pronounced during the release phase of the keys. Thus, the nylon material creates a harmony in sound dynamics across both models, but the intended characteristics of the switches can still manifest differently based on user interaction.

Ultimately, the Keygeek Briny and the HMX SU deliver very similar performance attributes due to their identical choice of nylon for both top and bottom housings. As a result, users can expect a comparable auditory and tactile experience from either switch. This uniformity in materials promotes a consistent typing feel, ensuring that those who switch between the two models won't notice significant discrepancies in sound or feedback. The individual qualities of each housing will still blend together, allowing for a cohesive typing experience bolstered by the inherent properties of nylon.

Weight

When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, significant differences in their actuation and bottom out forces become apparent. The Briny switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight option. In contrast, the HMX SU switch is lighter, featuring an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Briny requires a bit more effort to trigger each keystroke and to bottom out, which might provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a firmer feel. Conversely, the lighter SU switch offers ease of typing, making it suitable for extended work or gaming sessions without causing fatigue. Ultimately, if you prefer a lighter switch with less resistance, the SU is the better choice, while the Briny offers a more robust tactile feedback with its heavier forces.

Travel distance

Both the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch feature the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This identical distance means that users will experience a comparable key press depth when using either switch, providing a similar tactile feel and actuation experience. Since both switches have the same travel distance, they are likely to yield similar results in terms of responsiveness and comfort during typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, whether one opts for the Briny or the SU, they can expect a consistent travel distance that caters to their needs.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Keygeek Briny linear switch produces a balanced sound profile, notable for its rich and harmonious tonal quality. This is largely attributed to the combination of its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, which work together to minimize undesirable noise while ensuring a pleasant sound experience. Conversely, the HMX SU linear switch is characterized by a subtle, relatively deep sound profile, thanks to its full PA12 housing and T5 stem. The deeper sound it generates can lend itself to a satisfying acoustical presence when typing. It’s essential to remember that the overall sound can be influenced by other factors, such as the choice of keyboard and keycap materials, which adds a layer of variability to the auditory characteristics of both switches.

When it comes to feel, the Briny linear switch offers a smooth and consistent typing experience that is highly regarded for its predictability and lack of tactile feedback, appealing to users who prefer an uninterrupted keystroke. This makes it a great option for fast typists who desire fluidity. The HMX SU linear switch, on the other hand, also emphasizes smoothness but may present a slightly firmer actuation point due to its design. This can lead to a sense of stability and control that some users might prefer, particularly for typing during long sessions or for gaming. Both switches provide satisfying linear action, appealing to users who appreciate softness under their fingertips without any tactile bumps to disrupt the flow.

In conclusion, both the Keygeek Briny and HMX SU linear switches have their unique acoustic signatures and feel profiles. The Briny delivers a balanced sound with a smooth typing experience, making it ideal for users who value harmony in both sound and keystroke fluidity. The SU switch offers a deeper sound and a firmer feel, catering to those who may look for a slightly more robust typing experience. While there are distinctions between the two, both switches excel in their categories, ensuring users can find a satisfying option regardless of their individual preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, your preferences in feel, sound, and bottom-out force should guide your choice. If you favor a medium actuation force with a balanced sound profile and a more tactile feel during typing, the Briny is likely the better option for you. Its UPE stem and PA66 housing contribute to a satisfying typing experience that suits those who enjoy a bit of heft in their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a subtle yet deep sound profile, the HMX SU switch may be your ideal choice. The full PA12 housing and T5 stem create a smoother action that can be especially appealing for gaming or rapid typing sessions. Ultimately, your personal typing style and the type of experience you seek will determine which switch is the right fit for you, whether it be the more robust Briny or the airy SU.

Mentioned in this article

Keygeek Briny Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

HMX SU Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more