Keygeek Briny vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Briny and the Bsun Taichi represent two distinct yet appealing options for enthusiasts seeking smooth linear action. The Briny features an UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, which together create a balanced sound profile that delivers a satisfying typing experience, ideal for users who appreciate subtle sounds during their work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi is designed with a long-pole stem and extended springs, which contribute to its charmingly high-pitched bottom-out sound, providing a unique auditory feedback that can enhance the typing experience for those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic response. While both switches offer remarkable smoothness and stability, they cater to different preferences in sound and performance 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
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Briny and Bsun Taichi switches, a clear contrast emerges in their top housing materials. The Briny features a nylon top housing that is specifically noted for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic arises from nylon’s relatively softer nature, which allows the material to absorb sound, resulting in a sound that is duller and rounder. In contrast, the Taichi employs a polycarbonate top housing, which brings forth a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate’s stiffer composition causes it to resonate more clearly, enhancing the overall sound produced when a key is released. This difference in top housing contributes to the distinct auditory experiences provided by each switch, with the Briny favoring warmth and depth, while the Taichi emphasizes clarity and brightness.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Briny and Taichi utilize the same nylon material for this component. As such, they share similarities in the acoustic and tactile experience delivered upon keypresses. Both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound when bottoming out, due to nylon's sound-absorbing properties. This consistency signifies that, regardless of variation in the top housing material, both switches maintain a uniformity in bottom-out sound and feel. Nylon's ability to absorb impact and sound ensures that users will find a similar tactile experience when pressing down on both switches, reinforcing the characteristic warmth associated with nylon.
Ultimately, the differences and similarities in the housing materials contribute to a complex sound profile and tactile feedback in both the Keygeek Briny and Bsun Taichi switches. While the Briny’s nylon top brings a warm quality to the release of the key, the Taichi’s polycarbonate top offers a sharp contrast, making the two switches distinctly different in sound when key releases occur. However, both switches benefit from the nylon bottom housing, ensuring that users will still encounter a similar, rich tactile experience during key presses, allowing both switches to deliver satisfying performance in their own unique ways. Together, these materials highlight how a combination of different housing compositions can lead to varied auditory experiences while still maintaining cohesive tactile qualities.
Weight
The Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch differ in their actuation forces, with the Briny requiring a heavier 50 grams to actuate compared to the lighter 40 grams of the Taichi. This means the Briny may be better suited for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, while the Taichi may appeal more to users looking for a lighter touch, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. However, the bottom out force for the Taichi is unknown, making it difficult to fully assess the key feel compared to the Briny's 60 grams bottom out force. Overall, while both switches have their merits, the Briny is the heavier option, and the Taichi is the lighter one, leading to different user experiences based on individual preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch feature identical travel distances of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on either switch, the key travel that users experience will be the same, resulting in a similar tactile response and typing experience. With both switches offering this equal travel distance, users can expect consistent performance whether they are using the Briny or the Taichi.
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 Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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
The Keygeek Briny linear switch produces a balanced sound profile, which can offer an enjoyable auditory experience without overwhelming the user. Its UPE stem paired with a pure PA66 bottom housing gives it a pleasantly even tone that strikes a nice compromise between subtlety and clarity. In comparison, the Bsun Taichi linear switch is characterized by a more enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, attributed to its long-pole stem and extended springs. This combination enhances the acoustics of the switch, allowing for a more pronounced sound that some users might find more satisfying, especially when typing or gaming. It's important to remember that the overall sound experience can also be influenced by the keyboard's construction, including the choice of board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Briny switch is known for its smooth operation, thanks to its well-designed components, offering a plush typing experience that many users appreciate. The linear nature ensures a consistent performance throughout the travel, making it ideal for those who may dislike tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Taichi switch prides itself on unparalleled smoothness and stability, enhanced by its walled stems. This design contributes to a unique tactile experience, providing a delightful glide with every keystroke, making it a favorite among users who prioritize seamless actuation without interruption.
In summary, while both the Keygeek Briny and Bsun Taichi linear switches cater to the linear switch enthusiast, they each bring distinctive qualities to the table. The Briny offers a balanced sound and smooth feel, making it a versatile choice, while the Taichi excites with its captivating high-pitched sound and exceptional smoothness. Users can expect enjoyable typist experiences from either switch, though individual preferences may guide the choice depending on desired sound characteristics or typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, your choice will largely depend on what typing experience and feedback you seek. If you prefer a balanced sound profile and a medium force of 60 grams when bottoming out, the Briny is an excellent option. It offers a satisfying tactile feedback that is suitable for both gaming and typing, making it a versatile choice for various keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, if you're drawn to an enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound and prioritize a smooth, stable experience over raw force, the Bsun Taichi might be the better choice for you. Its long-pole stem and unique design ensure an incredibly fluid keystroke, which can enhance your enjoyment, especially in gaming scenarios where responsiveness is key. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you value a balanced tactile feel or an exceptionally smooth and melodious typing experience, allowing you to tailor your mechanical keyboard setup to your personal preferences.
Mentioned in this article
