Keygeek Briny vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often turn their attention to the Keygeek Briny and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°. The Briny switch stands out with its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, resulting in a balanced sound profile that appeals to users who appreciate a harmonious auditory experience while typing. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a consistent and smooth keystroke, making it a solid choice for both typists and gamers alike. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° redefines silent typing with its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, which offers an exceptionally soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound, minimizing noise without sacrificing performance. This switch caters particularly well to users who work in shared spaces or who simply prefer a quieter typing experience. While both switches fall under the linear category, they offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Keygeek Briny and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, we can begin by noting the distinct compositions of their top housings. The Briny uses a nylon top housing, known for its softer, more sound-absorbent properties that lead to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° features a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and contributes to a sharper and crisper sound experience. This difference in material not only affects the auditory output but also influences the aesthetic appeal of the switches. The translucency of the polycarbonate allows for a more vibrant display of RGB lighting, making it particularly favored by users who prioritize aesthetics alongside performance.
Moving to the bottom housing, both the Briny and the Zero Degree 0° utilize nylon materials. This similarity ensures that the bottom-out feel and sound remain consistent across both switches. As nylon is known for absorbing sound and providing a fuller auditory experience, users will enjoy a comparable underlying sound profile when pressing down on either switch. This shared material contributes to a uniformity of experience during key presses, with the soft nature of nylon helping to create a cushioned bottom-out feel that many typists appreciate for long sessions.
Ultimately, although the Briny and Zero Degree 0° differ in their top housing materials, they converge in their use of nylon for the bottom housing. This synergy allows users to experience a nuanced typing experience where the distinct sound characteristics of each top housing are balanced by the consistent, deeper sound profile provided by nylon in both switches. Therefore, if you are seeking a vibrant auditory experience with potential aesthetic enhancements alongside a satisfying tactile response, either switch can provide desirable attributes; the key differences lie primarily in the acoustics of release due to their top housing compositions.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, there are notable differences in the actuation force. The Briny has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams, while the Zero Degree 0° features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This difference means that those who favor a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions may prefer the Gateron option. On the other hand, the Briny's heavier actuation force may appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing feel. Additionally, the Briny's bottom out force is 60 grams, providing a clear conclusion point for keystrokes, while the bottom out force for the Zero Degree 0° is unknown. Thus, while both switches offer distinct experiences, the Briny is the heavier option overall, while the Zero Degree 0° remains the lighter choice for users who prioritize a softer touch.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch both feature an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that users can expect a similar feel and responsiveness when pressing down on these keys. With both switches offering the same distance, they provide a consistent experience in terms of key actuation and comfort during typing or gaming. Therefore, whether choosing the Briny or the Zero Degree, users will achieve equivalent results in travel distance, making either option a solid choice for those seeking linear switches.
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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 is known for its balanced sound profile, which can make for a pleasant typing experience without being overly loud or intrusive. The Gateron Zero Degree 0° takes a different approach with its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, focusing on silent operation. This switch effectively absorbs sound through its construction, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize quietness in their typing. While both switches are designed to provide a pleasant auditory experience, the Briny will have more of a traditional sound that is well-matched with various boards and keycaps, while the Zero Degree 0° emphasizes stealthy performance, minimizing noise.
When it comes to feel, the Briny switch, featuring an UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, delivers a smooth and consistent keypress that many typists appreciate. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° is engineered to offer a soft, elastic feel, enhancing smoothness and stability during typing. The self-padding design contributes to an almost cushioned experience as each key is pressed, which can be particularly enjoyable for long typing sessions. While the Briny provides a reliable linear feel typical of linear switches, the Zero Degree 0° elevates the experience through its unique construction, catering to users who seek a more forgiving, yet stable typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Keygeek Briny and Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches both offer their unique advantages, making them suitable for different preferences in sound and feel. The Briny is great for those who appreciate a well-rounded auditory experience with smooth operation, while the Zero Degree 0° excels in silent performance, feeling soft and stable under the fingers. Depending on your priorities—whether they be sound levels, typing feel, or overall experience—either option can serve your mechanical keyboard needs effectively, providing a satisfying typing experience for newcomers and enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing environment. If you enjoy a medium resistance with a balanced sound profile that provides a more tactile experience during typing, the Briny might be the right choice for you. Its UPE stem and PA66 housing contribute to a pleasing auditory feedback, making it suitable for users who appreciate a bit of character in their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prioritize silence and a smoother, more forgiving feel, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° should be your go-to. Its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure not only enhance the typing experience by significantly reducing noise but also provide a soft, elastic feel that caters to users keen on minimizing typing sound in shared environments. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer a more pronounced typing experience or a quieter, more seamless one.
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