Keygeek Briny vs. Gazzew U4Tx

Overview

When navigating the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two compelling options stand out: the Keygeek Briny, a linear switch, and the Gazzew U4Tx, a tactile switch. The Briny is celebrated for its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, which together create a balanced sound profile ideal for those who prefer a smooth, uninterrupted keypress experience. This switch caters particularly well to gamers or typists who favor speed and fluidity without the distraction of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx merges the best attributes of tactile and linear designs, offering a refined acoustic profile that produces a satisfying deep "thock" when bottoming out, along with a whisper-quiet top-out. With each press delivering a sharp, tactile bump, it suits users who appreciate both auditory and physical feedback while typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference—whether you value the seamless actuation of the Briny or the rich tactile engagement of the U4Tx. 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

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The Keygeek Briny and the Gazzew U4Tx exhibit notable differences and similarities in their housing materials that influence their acoustic properties. The Briny utilizes classic nylon for both its top and bottom housings, characterized by its softer structure that absorbs sound effectively. This results in a typing experience that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the nylon dampens vibrations and reduces harsh noise. In contrast, the U4Tx incorporates a proprietary plastic blend known as "boba plastic" for both its top and bottom housings. This blend also aims to create a rich and deep sound profile, akin to the qualities of nylon, yet suggests a unique formulation that may yield slightly different acoustic characteristics.

Both the Briny and U4Tx rely on soft materials to achieve their sound profiles, emphasizing the role of the housing materials in shaping the auditory experience of the switches. As the Briny's nylon housing delivers a duller and rounder sound due to its softness, the U4Tx's Gazzew blend also promises to absorb sound effectively, though its unique composite might produce different tonal nuances. When typing, the softer plastics in both switches lead to a similar depth in sound; however, the specific impact of the proprietary blend might result in distinct touch and auditory feedback that users may find appealing for different reasons.

In addition to their similarities in softness leading to rich sound profiles, the physical interaction of each switch's design further influences the typing experience. Given that the top and bottom housings differ in composition between models, the unique characteristics of each material will affect the switch's overall feel and sound during use. For instance, while the Briny’s nylon may produce a clear and consistent sound upon release, the U4Tx could yield distinct acoustic qualities from its proprietary blend. Thus, while users can anticipate a similarly deep experience from both switches due to their respective materials, the nuances in feel and sound will ultimately depend on the intricate interplay between the housing materials and their design.

Weight

When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Briny has an actuation force of 50 grams, requiring a moderate amount of pressure to register a keystroke, while the U4Tx does not specify an actuation force, which leaves that detail unknown. However, both switches have similar bottom out forces, with the Briny at 60 grams and the U4Tx slightly higher at 62.5 grams. This indicates that while you may experience a slightly more substantial feel when fully depressed with the U4Tx, the Briny is the lighter option overall due to its defined actuation force. A lighter switch like the Briny may be preferable for those who type for extended periods or during long gaming sessions, as it can reduce finger fatigue. Conversely, the U4Tx may appeal to users seeking a heavier feel for a more pronounced typing experience.

Travel distance

Both the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch feature an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that users can expect a similar feel and response when pressing down on either switch. This similarity in travel distance ensures that the overall experience in terms of key engagement and bottoming out is consistent across both options. Consequently, individuals who prefer one switch over the other may find it desirable to choose based on other characteristics, such as tactile feedback or sound, rather than travel distance alone.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Keygeek Briny linear switch is known for producing a balanced sound profile thanks to its UPE stem and PA66 bottom housing. This results in a consistent and smooth auditory experience that fits the linear switch character. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offers a distinctly richer sound profile that incorporates deeper "thock" tones during bottoming out alongside a very muted sound when topping out. The U4Tx is designed to provide a pleasing auditory experience that is both deep and subtle, making it acoustically satisfying for those who prefer a more dynamic range of sound.

In terms of feel, the Briny switch lacks specific descriptors, but as a linear switch, it can be inferred to provide a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke experience without any tactile feedback. Meanwhile, the Gazzew U4Tx excels in this area with its sharp tactile bump, which delivers a high feedback intensity. Typing on the U4Tx feels engaging and pronounced, making it ideal for typists who enjoy a distinct tactile sensation at the actuation point.

Considering both sound and feel, the Keygeek Briny linear switch offers a balanced and smoother typing experience, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch provides a richer sound and enhanced tactile feedback, catering to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. The choice between these two switches ultimately comes down to whether one prioritizes a seamless linear action or seeks the satisfying tactile feedback and auditory depth characteristic of a tactile switch.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and the type of sound experience you desire. If you prefer a smoother, linear typing experience that provides a balanced sound profile without overwhelming resonance, the Briny is an excellent choice. Its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams ensures that each keystroke feels fluid and effortless, making it ideal for both casual users and gamers who appreciate rapid keystrokes without tactile interruptions. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile feedback with a rich and refined acoustic signature, the U4Tx is the way to go. With its sharp tactile bump and a deeper, bassy sound profile, this switch delivers an immersive typing experience that many users find satisfying. The slightly higher bottom-out force of 62.5 grams adds to the perception of feedback, making it a perfect option for typists looking for a distinct physical response with every keystroke. Therefore, your decision should align with whether you prioritize a smooth, quiet actuation or a tactile, acoustically engaging experience, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard suits your unique typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Keygeek Briny Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more