Keygeek Briny vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can greatly influence your typing experience, and two popular options among enthusiasts are the Keygeek Briny and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl. The Briny switch, known for its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, delivers a balanced sound profile that appeals to users seeking a pleasant auditory experience without excessive noise. Its linear design provides a smooth keystroke without tactile feedback, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize consistency and minimal resistance. On the other hand, the WS Pearl sets itself apart with its innovative use of ball-bearings, which significantly reduces friction during keystrokes, resulting in a touch that feels almost surreal in its smoothness. This switch also offers a medium-high pitched sound signature, attracting users who enjoy a touch of auditory character in their typing experience. While both switches provide the linear feel many users crave, their distinct characteristics appeal to different preferences in sound and sensitivity. 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
30g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Keygeek Briny and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl utilize nylon for both their top and bottom housing materials, which results in very similar sound profiles and tactile experiences when typing. Nylon is known for its softer characteristics compared to harder plastics, allowing it to absorb sound more effectively. This absorption leads to a more subdued auditory feedback, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile with a rounder, less sharp quality. Consequently, users of both keyboards can expect a typing experience that is rich and pleasant, characterized by that muted acoustical tone that many enthusiasts seek.
Additionally, the uniformity in housing materials between the Briny and the WS Pearl extends to how they influence the overall typing feel. Since both keyboards share the same nylon composition for their housings, the quality of the sound and tactile response will showcase similarities, regardless of minor differences that may exist in other aspects of their design. With both switches utilizing this classic material, the impact each housing has on the typing experience is split—while the bottom housing affects the bottom-out feel and sound, the top housing influences the sound experienced upon releasing the key. Therefore, users can enjoy a coherent and consistent typing feedback across both keyboards, as they capitalize on the favorable attributes of nylon.
In summary, the use of nylon in both the Briny and the WS Pearl creates a harmonious typing experience that resonates through a softer and more acoustic-friendly design. With identical housing materials, users can anticipate an almost interchangeable experience when it comes to sound profiles and the tactile nature of the switches. This alignment in materials underscores a shared philosophy in keyboard design, where the aim is to foster an engaging and immersive typing environment. In both cases, the deeper sound and rounded feedback hallmark a thoughtful consideration toward user comfort and auditory satisfaction, solidifying their standing as appealing options for typists and gamers alike.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Briny features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating a slightly heavier push feel that some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the WS Pearl has a lighter actuation force of only 30 grams, coupled with a bottom out force of 58 grams. This makes the WS Pearl a better option for those who favor a lighter switch for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. While both switches have similar bottom out forces, the distinct actuation forces suggest that users may experience different typing sensations, with the Briny being the heavier choice and the Pearl providing a lighter touch overall.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Keygeek Briny linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on the key, the Briny switch offers a bit more depth, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. In contrast, the WS Pearl, with its shorter travel distance, could provide quicker response times, making it a better choice for gamers who favor swift action. Thus, if you are inclined toward a more responsive experience, you might lean towards the WS Pearl, whereas if you value a more pronounced actuation, the Briny would be the better option. Overall, while both switches are close in travel distance, the Briny is the longer option at 3.6 mm, compared to the WS Pearl’s 3.5 mm.
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 Wuque Studio WS Pearl comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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
In terms of sound, the Keygeek Briny linear switch offers a balanced sound profile, characterized by a pleasant timbre that sits well in the middle range. This makes it versatile for various environments, as it is neither overly loud nor too quiet. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch provides a medium-high pitched sound signature, which may contribute to a sharper auditory experience during typing. While both switches create distinct sound profiles, factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps will significantly influence the final acoustics, potentially making the experience with either switch similar if tuned appropriately.
When it comes to feel, the Briny switch is noted for its well-rounded performance, delivering satisfactory smoothness with a consistent keystroke experience. Meanwhile, the WS Pearl sets itself apart by incorporating ball-bearings, which dramatically reduce friction and deliver an exceptionally smooth and nearly effortless typing experience. The stark contrast between the standard smoothness of the Briny and the surreal smoothness of the WS Pearl means that if you prioritize a fluid keystroke, the WS Pearl might be the preferable choice, while the Briny still offers a commendable tactile feedback.
In conclusion, while both the Keygeek Briny and Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switches possess their unique characteristics, each provides a compelling typing experience. The Briny offers a balanced sound and satisfactory feel, making it suitable for a wide range of users. Conversely, the WS Pearl distinguishes itself with its higher-pitched sound and exceptional smoothness due to its innovative use of ball-bearings. Ultimately, your choice may come down to whether you prefer the reliable performance of the Briny or the luxurious feel of the WS Pearl; however, both switches can deliver satisfying results depending on your setup and preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences for sound and feel during your typing or gaming experience. If you seek a balanced sound profile and a satisfying weight, the Briny, with its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, might be your ideal choice. This switch delivers a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, making it great for users who prefer a slightly more substantial feel without being too heavy. On the other hand, if you prioritize an exceptionally smooth keystroke experience and a medium-high pitched sound signature, the WS Pearl, with its unique ball-bearings designed to reduce friction, would likely be more to your liking. With a bottom-out force of 58 grams, the WS Pearl is slightly lighter but offers a distinctively different feel due to its engineering, which enables a nearly frictionless operation. So, whether you lean toward the balanced comfort of the Briny or the ultra-smooth, almost buttery sensation of the WS Pearl, each switch provides unique benefits that cater to different typing and gaming styles.
Mentioned in this article
