Keygeek Briny vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often turn to the Keygeek Briny and the Wuque Studio WS Red, both linear switches known for their unique characteristics and typing experiences. The Briny features a UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, resulting in a balanced sound profile that appeals to users seeking a quieter and more subtle typing experience. This makes it an excellent choice for those who work in shared environments or prefer a smooth yet discreet keystroke. On the other hand, the WS Red boasts a 22mm double-stage spring, which contributes to a bouncy and responsive typing feel, making each keystroke feel engaging and substantial. With a heavier actuation force, it caters to users who enjoy a bit more resistance and a satisfying tactile interaction with their keyboard. Both switches have their merits, with the Briny focusing on sound and subtlety, while the WS Red emphasizes a more dynamic typing experience. 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
N/A
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
3.80 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Keygeek Briny and the Wuque Studio WS Red keyboards utilize nylon as their housing material for both the top and bottom components of their switches. This shared choice of material is significant, as nylon is known for its relatively softer composition compared to harder plastics. As a result, both keyboards are able to deliver a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing. The inherent properties of nylon allow it to absorb sound more effectively, leading to a lower and rounder sound when compared to switches made from harder plastics. Despite being from different manufacturers, both the Briny and WS Red offer similar auditory experiences due to their identical choice in housing material.
While the identical nylon top and bottom housings of the Briny and WS Red switches contribute to a similar sound profile, it is essential to understand how these housings impact the feel and acoustic characteristics during typing. The bottom housing is more influential in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, while the top housing affects the sound when the key is released. This synergy between the top and bottom housings ensures that both the Keygeek Briny and Wuque Studio WS Red are capable of producing a satisfying typing experience, characterized by a smooth and muted sound effect regardless of the subtle variations in switch design.
In summary, while the Briny and WS Red may differ in design aesthetics and other features, their use of nylon for both top and bottom housing positions them closely in terms of acoustic performance. Typing on either keyboard should yield a remarkably similar experience, highlighting the importance of housing materials in the overall feel and sound of a switch. Consequently, users can expect a consistent auditory signature with a depth that emphasizes the inherent qualities of nylon, reinforcing the idea that the choice of materials can profoundly shape the user experience in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Keygeek Briny linear switch features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 67 grams. This indicates that the Briny switch is lighter, making it potentially more suitable for those who prefer a softer touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the WS Red’s bottom out force is heavier, suggesting a more substantial feel when the key is fully depressed. For typists and gamers who appreciate a firmer push sensation, the WS Red may be more appealing. Overall, while both switches offer a medium to medium-heavy typing experience, the Briny is the lighter option, which could influence user choice based on typing comfort preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, we find notable differences that can influence user preference. The Briny switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Briny is the shorter of the two switches by 0.2 mm, making it a potentially better choice for users seeking faster response times favored by gamers. On the other hand, the WS Red, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, providing a deeper typing experience. Overall, the decision between the two switches largely hinges on individual preferences for travel distance and the corresponding tactile 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 Red comes in at $3.50 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 switch delivers a balanced profile, making it suitable for a variety of environments without being overly intrusive. This characteristic allows for a pleasant auditory experience during typing, ensuring that clicks or thuds don't become distracting. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red switch features a classic material blend that results in a familiar sound signature. While both switches aren't specifically described in terms of sharpness or bass, you can expect them to offer a similar muted yet satisfying acoustic environment, especially when considering the influence of the keyboard design and keycap choices.
When it comes to feel, the Briny switch is renowned for its smooth operation, attributed to the combination of its UPE stem and PA66 bottom housing. This results in a soft and fluid typing experience that's comfortable for extended use. Conversely, the WS Red switch has a unique design highlighted by its 22mm double-stage spring, which adds a bouncy and responsive aspect to each keystroke. This delivers a heavier actuation force compared to the Briny, creating a substantial sensation as you type. While the Briny offers a more streamlined feel, the WS Red provides a tactile weight that some may prefer, so your preference will dictate which is more suitable for your typing style.
In conclusion, both the Keygeek Briny and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches possess qualities that can cater to different typing preferences. The Briny's balanced sound and smooth feel may appeal to users seeking a more understated experience, while the WS Red's bouncier response and heavier actuation force could attract those looking for a more dynamic typing experience. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches will come down to personal taste, as both can deliver satisfying results tailored to your typing needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for feel, sound, and typing experience. If you favor a balanced sound profile and a medium actuation force, the Briny is a wonderful option, particularly if you appreciate a smooth and consistent keystroke without being too heavy. This makes it an excellent choice for typing for extended periods without experiencing fatigue. On the other hand, if you desire a bouncier and more responsive typing experience with a bit more heft to each keystroke, the WS Red’s medium-heavy actuation force may better suit your style. This switch not only offers a satisfying substantial feel but also engages those who enjoy a more tactile connection while typing. Overall, consider what aspects of the typing experience matter most to you—if you prioritize a light and even sound, go with the Briny; if you prefer weight and bounce, the WS Red may be your best bet.