Keygeek Briny vs. Everglide Tourmaline Blue
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Keygeek Briny and Everglide Tourmaline Blue present two compelling options, each with distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Briny, featuring a UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, is celebrated for its balanced sound profile, which may appeal to users seeking a smooth and muted keystroke for a versatile typing experience. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue switches are known for their unique deep and thocky sound, immersing typists in a satisfying auditory feedback that enhances the tactile experience. With a lengthened single-stage spring, the Tourmaline Blues offer a bouncy feel, making them enjoyable for both casual and avid typists alike. While both switches are classified as linear, the Briny favors a more subtle auditory feedback, whereas the Tourmaline Blue provides a richer sound alongside its lively feel. Having given a brief overview of each switch, 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
59g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Briny and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue, a significant distinction lies in the selection of materials; the Briny employs nylon for both its top and bottom housings, while the Tourmaline Blue utilizes polycarbonate for the same components. The Briny's nylon housing contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile that absorbs sound thanks to its softer plastic composition. This results in a warmer typing experience, with less resonance. In contrast, the Tourmaline Blue's polycarbonate housing generates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffer nature. Consequently, the audible feedback from the Everglide switches tends to be more clear and resonant, creating a distinct typing experience compared to the more muted output of the Briny's nylon.
Additionally, the aesthetic attributes of each material enhance their respective functionalities. While the Briny’s nylon housing is relatively non-transparent and lacks the visual appeal of RGB lighting, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for vibrant illumination when utilized in the Tourmaline Blue. This feature makes the Everglide switches especially appealing for users who appreciate RGB lighting effects, as the lights can shine through the transparent housings. Hence, the choice of housing material affects not just sound characteristics but also the visual experience of keyboard enthusiasts who prioritize aesthetic aspects along with performance.
Ultimately, if a switch features a different top and bottom housing material, the impact on sound and feel can be nuanced. In mixed materials like the Briny's nylon hosing, the predominant characteristics stem from the softer nature of the plastic, offering a plush bottom-out sound. Conversely, the impact of the Tourmaline Blue, with its polycarbonate elements, can be perceived through the sharper and more defined audio signature it delivers. In both cases, users will experience a blend of the materials, with the bottom housing affecting the feel and bottom-out sound, while the top housing influences the sound upon release, underlining the importance of material choice in switch design for delivering varied tactile and auditory experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Briny features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch, while the Tourmaline Blue requires a stronger actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range. This means that the Briny is the lighter switch, making it potentially more comfortable for prolonged typing sessions and gaming, as it requires less force to actuate. Conversely, the Tourmaline Blue’s higher forces may appeal to users who prefer a more resistant feel, providing a sense of substantiality in their keystrokes. Therefore, the choice between these two switches may ultimately hinge on personal preference for weight and typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, it is clear that they differ. The Briny has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Tourmaline Blue measures 4 mm. This makes the Briny the shorter option, appealing to those who prefer a more responsive typing experience, often favored by gamers for quicker actuation. Conversely, the Tourmaline Blue's longer 4 mm travel distance is likely to be more satisfying for users who enjoy a deeper key feel, as it provides a greater sense of input depth and feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches boils down to personal preference—whether one prioritizes speed and responsiveness or a more traditional and deliberate keystroke 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 Tourmaline Blue has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Tourmaline Blue for $3.89.
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 offers a balanced sound profile. This neutrality makes it suitable for various environments, catching the attention of both casual and serious typists alike. On the other hand, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch is distinguished by its deep and thocky sound profile, giving the user an immersive typing experience. This distinct audio quality adds a layer of satisfaction during use, making it particularly appealing for those who value auditory feedback in their typing experience. While both switches can yield pleasant sounds, the Briny leans towards a more moderate tone, whereas the Tourmaline Blues provide a richer acoustic presence.
In terms of feel, the Briny is characterized by its smoothness and responsiveness; however, specific details about its tactile feedback are not specified. In comparison, the Tourmaline Blue linear switch boasts a buttery feel, lending itself to a smooth and fluid keystroke. The use of a lengthened single-stage spring enhances the bounciness of each keystroke, making it feel effortless and comfortable to use. Additionally, the Tourmaline Blue switches are easy to press, offering a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during lengthy typing sessions. This mild typing experience ensures that users can type for extended periods without discomfort, making it accessible for beginners as well as experienced typists.
In summary, both the Keygeek Briny and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switches provide unique auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The Briny's balanced sound and responsiveness make it a versatile choice for various users, while the Tourmaline Blues offer a distinctly thocky sound and buttery feel that enhances comfort and enjoyment. Ultimately, selecting between them would boil down to personal preference on sound and the desired typing sensation, as both switches promise to elevate the typing experience in their own ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, your choice largely hinges on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound. If you prefer a lighter keystroke with a balanced sound profile and a more moderate actuation force of 60 grams, the Briny would be your best bet, especially if you’re after a general-purpose switch that will fit well in both work and casual settings. This switch's construction provides a satisfying typing experience without being overly loud or demanding on your fingers, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or mixed-use environments. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a richer auditory experience and don’t mind the additional actuation force of 67 grams, the Tourmaline Blue is the way to go. Its deep, thocky sound profile combined with buttery, easy-to-press keystrokes will create a more engaging and enjoyable typing experience, perfect for those who appreciate a more pronounced tactile feedback. Furthermore, the Tourmaline Blue's mild characteristics make it approachable for both beginners and experienced typists alike. Ultimately, your choice should reflect the typing style and auditory experience you value most.
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