Keygeek Briny vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Briny and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ both stand out as excellent linear options, but each offers a unique experience that caters to different preferences. The Briny is celebrated for its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, which together create a balanced sound profile that many users find appealing for both gaming and typing. In contrast, the WS POM+ boasts an all-POM construction that delivers a deep, satisfying "thock" sound signature alongside a buttery-smooth keystroke, making it a favorite among those who prioritize auditory feedback and a luxurious feel. Both switches are designed to enhance your typing experience, whether you lean towards a balanced acoustic environment or do not mind a more pronounced sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Keygeek Briny and the Wuque Studio WS POM+, we see distinct attributes attributed to each. The Briny utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, which is known for its softer texture that contributes to a deeper and rounder sound profile. The nature of nylon allows for significant sound absorption, making for a typing experience that feels fuller and more muted. In contrast, the WS POM+ employs POM (polyoxymethylene) for its housings, which, while still delivering a deeper sound profile, creates a unique auditory experience that is also relatively muted, albeit with a slightly different tonal quality. This differentiation in materials could suggest variations in the overall acoustic signatures of the switches despite their shared characteristics of deeper sound profiles.
Both switches leverage softer plastics—nylon for the Briny and POM for the WS POM+—to create muted and deeper sound profiles as a result of their housing designs. However, the choice of material influences not only the type of sound produced but also the tactile feedback experienced during key presses. The Briny's nylon housing may elicit a different top-down feel with potentially less clack compared to the WS POM+, which could manifest a slightly different tactile experience and audible feedback. This contrast is subtle but essential for enthusiasts who appreciate the nuances in switch performance.
Ultimately, while the housing materials are different, the performance outcomes can lead to similar auditory experiences, particularly in the pursuit of muted, deeper sound profiles. Those who appreciate the qualities of the Briny's nylon housing can still find satisfaction in the WS POM+ due to its comparable approach to sound production. Both types of switches will produce a soft and rounded sound due to their material properties, but they do carry unique characteristics that could appeal differently depending on personal preference. Thus, whether typing on a Briny or a WS POM+, users can expect a pleasant experience designed for enhanced acoustics while recognizing the subtle distinctions that each material brings to the table.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Briny requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams, while the WS POM+ is lighter at 45 grams. This difference makes the WS POM+ more suitable for those who prefer a switch that allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue, as the lighter feel can reduce strain. In terms of bottom out forces, the Briny reaches 60 grams, compared to the 55 grams of the WS POM+. This heavier bottom out force in the Briny may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience, providing a firm feedback when keys are fully depressed. Overall, if you're looking for a lighter switch, the WS POM+ is the better choice, while the Briny will offer a heavier, more pronounced tactile experience.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, indicating that they offer identical keypress experiences in terms of distance traveled from the top to the bottom when a key is pressed. This similarity ensures that users can expect comparable tactile feedback and actuation dynamics from both switches, resulting in a consistent performance when typing or gaming. Consequently, with both switches having the same travel distance, users can choose based on other factors like feel or sound, without concern for differences in travel distance affecting their overall 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 Wuque Studio WS POM+ comes in at $3.90 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 produces a balanced sound profile, which likely suggests a harmonious mix of thockiness and perhaps a subtle high-end clarity that’s not overly intrusive. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switch is notable for its deep and satisfying "thock" sound signature, which contributes to a richer auditory experience. This difference in sound quality can be particularly noticeable when typing, as the Briny offers a more muted sound that might appeal to users seeking a quieter experience, whereas the WS POM+ embraces a more pronounced sound that enhances feedback during typing sessions.
Regarding feel, the Briny linear switch is characterized by its UPE stem and PA66 bottom housing, which together likely offer a smooth, consistent keystroke that is enjoyable for users who prefer a linear switch experience. Conversely, the WS POM+ linear switch, made entirely of POM, is designed to deliver a buttery-smooth keystroke that adds an extra layer of luxury to each press. While both switches aim for smoothness, the unique materials used in each provide distinct tactile experiences, with the WS POM+ perhaps feeling slightly more refined due to its all-POM construction.
In summary, while both the Keygeek Briny and Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switches strive to enhance the typing experience, they do so with different characteristics. The Briny offers a balanced sound that may appeal to those who favor a quieter typing environment, while the WS POM+ provides a deeper thock and rich auditory feedback. In terms of feel, the Briny promises smoothness, while the WS POM+ elevates that smoothness to a new level with its luxurious tactile response. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and the overall typing experience you desire.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and what you prioritize in your typing experience. If you appreciate a balanced sound profile and a medium actuation force—ideal for a mix of typing and gaming—the Briny is a solid choice. It’s built with an UPE stem and PA66 bottom housing, which not only enhances durability but also contributes to its refined acoustic performance. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter touch with a more pronounced sound signature, the WS POM+ is the way to go. With its all-POM construction, you'll enjoy a deep "thock" sound and an incredibly smooth keystroke, making it perfect for prolonged typing sessions or even casual gaming. Ultimately, consider how much you value sound and feel when making your decision: go for the Briny if you want balanced performance and moderate tactile feedback, or choose the WS POM+ for a lighter actuation and richer auditory experience.
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