Keygeek Briny vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB

Overview

When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch stand out for their unique qualities and user experiences. The Briny, crafted with a UPE stem and a pure PA66 bottom housing, is celebrated for its balanced sound profile, making it an attractive choice for those who prioritize smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes, ideal for both gaming and typing sessions. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB offers a luxurious typing experience, characterized by its distinctive "thock" sound when bottoming out and a sharp tactile bump that provides satisfying feedback at actuation. This switch is perfect for users who enjoy a tactile response and a refined auditory experience while typing. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer the smoothness and stealth of a linear switch or the tactile feedback and pronounced sound of a tactile 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

Keygeek Briny Linear

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Briny and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches, we encounter both similarities and differences that significantly impact their acoustic profiles. The Briny utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its softness and ability to absorb sound, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Similarly, the U4Tx RGB features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, sometimes termed "boba plastic," that also promotes a rich and deep sound due to its softness. Despite the differences in material designation, both switches leverage softer plastics to mitigate sound propagation, resulting in a comparable auditory experience. This interplay of softer materials leads to a rounded and less sharp sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience for users.

Examining the bottom housings reveals further parallels between the two models. The Keygeek Briny is equipped with a nylon bottom housing that shares the same acoustic properties as its top counterpart, contributing to the switch's consistent sound profile. The Gazzew U4Tx RGB, on the other hand, employs its proprietary Gazzew blend for the bottom housing, which also aims to deliver a rich sound experience thanks to its softer composition. Thus, while the branding and specific material differences exist, both switches are designed to provide a fluid auditory experience that balances the characteristics of the bottom and top housings effectively. This uniformity helps to shape the overall sound quality when bottoming out, ensuring that both models deliver dulcet tones during use.

In conclusion, while the Keygeek Briny and Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches utilize different materials—nylon versus a proprietary blend—the synthesis of properties from both top and bottom housings creates an analogous sound profile. The softness inherent in both materials effectively dampens sharper sounds, resulting in a full-bodied auditory experience. Users can expect a duller, rounder sound from both switches, linking their performance closely despite the distinctions in material composition. Overall, whether one opts for the Briny or the U4Tx RGB, the similarity in the approach to housing materials ensures consistent results in sound quality that typists are likely to appreciate.

Weight

The Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Briny features an actuation force of 50 grams, providing a relatively lighter feel that many typists may appreciate for extended use, while its bottom out force is measured at 60 grams. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is heavier, indicating a more substantial typing experience, but its actuation force is unknown. This suggests that the Gazzew switch may have a different actuation requirement, potentially affecting the typing experience. Therefore, those who prioritize a lighter switch for prolonged typing sessions might prefer the Keygeek Briny, while those seeking a more pronounced feedback with a heavier bottom out force might lean toward the Gazzew U4Tx. Ultimately, for users looking for a balance between typing comfort and feedback, the differences in force characteristics necessitate consideration of personal typing preferences.

Travel distance

Both the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch feature the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on either switch, users will experience an identical distance from top to bottom. As a result, those looking for a keyboard experience with similar key travel can confidently choose either switch without worrying about discrepancies in travel distance. Both switches will deliver comparable tactile feel and response due to their equal travel lengths.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Keygeek Briny linear switch is known for producing a balanced sound profile due to its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, which results in smooth keystrokes without harsh noise. This makes the Briny an excellent choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience while maintaining a pleasant acoustic presence. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch delivers a deep “thock” when bottoming out, complemented by a quieter topping out noise thanks to its unique design and materials. This produces a more refined auditory experience that combines tactile feedback with a satisfying sound, making it ideal for users who enjoy audible confirmation of their keystrokes.

When it comes to feel, the Keygeek Briny linear switch is smooth throughout its travel, providing an uninterrupted typing experience without tactile feedback. This linear characteristic can be appealing to typists who prioritize a consistent and effortless action without distraction. Meanwhile, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch features a pronounced tactile bump that gives a distinct point of feedback upon actuation, enhancing the overall typing experience by helping users feel the moment their keystroke registers. The contrast between the smoothness of the Briny and the tactile element of the U4Tx RGB caters to different preferences in typing dynamics.

In conclusion, both the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Briny’s balanced sound and smooth feel make it suited for those who seek a more subdued and effortless typing experience, while the U4Tx RGB combines a refined sound profile with tactile feedback, appealing to users who enjoy a more interactive and auditory experience. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prefer the linear smoothness of the Briny or the tactile nuance of the U4Tx RGB. Each switch can be tailored to your setup through the choice of keycaps and the keyboard itself, ultimately influencing the sound and feel you experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, your choice between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch will largely depend on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a smooth, linear feel coupled with a balanced sound profile, the Briny, with its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, may be your ideal choice. This switch is particularly well-suited for typists who value speed and fluidity, making it a fantastic option for both gaming and fast-paced typing scenarios. On the other hand, if you enjoy noticeable feedback with a satisfying tactile bump, the U4Tx RGB's medium-heavy 65 grams bottom-out force and deep "thock" sound will likely appeal to you. This switch is perfect for those who prioritize a luxurious typing experience, making it an excellent choice for typing-heavy tasks where you appreciate the auditory feedback and the physical reassurance of each keystroke. Ultimately, consider what sensations you value most—if you seek speed and smoothness, choose the Briny; if you prefer tactile feedback and a more pronounced sound with every press, the U4Tx RGB is the way to go.

Mentioned in this article

Keygeek Briny Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more