KTT Ash Gray vs. Kailh Berry

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the KTT Ash Gray and the Kailh Berry. The Ash Gray switch is a tactile switch, designed to provide a tactile response that is both substantial and pleasant. With a light touch and crisp actuation, this switch offers a delightful blend of tactile feedback without being overwhelming. It is categorized as easy-to-press, mild, and neutral. On the other hand, the Berry switch is a linear switch that offers a hefty typing experience. It has a springy type feel and a chalk-like texture when typing, creating a unique sensation. Additionally, the Berry switch produces a fairly deep sound profile. It is categorized as textured, low-pitched, and bassy. Each switch has its own distinct characteristics and advantages, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Ash Gray Tactile

Kailh Berry Linear

$3.00

$2.55 per 10

$6.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the Kailh Berry switches are quite similar. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic that enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Ash Gray and the Berry switches will provide similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing, there is a slight difference between the two switches. The Ash Gray utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound. On the other hand, the Kailh Berry also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which shares the same qualities as the Ash Gray in terms of sound. Both switches will produce a deep and full sound, thanks to the use of nylon in their construction.

It is worth noting that the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in terms of sound and feel. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, which is experienced when you press down on a key. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when you release a key. Therefore, the differences in the bottom housing materials between the Ash Gray and the Berry switches might lead to a slight variation in the overall typing experience, particularly in the sound and feel of key presses.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Kailh Berry linear switch, there are notable differences. The KTT Ash Gray has an actuation force of 38 grams, which is relatively light, while the Kailh Berry's actuation force is unavailable, making it difficult to compare directly. However, the KTT Ash Gray has a bottom out force of 53 grams, indicating a medium-light touch, while the Kailh Berry has a bottom out force of 70 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the KTT Ash Gray may be a suitable choice. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces provide a smoother and more effortless typing experience, making it ideal for extended periods of typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, individuals who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing feel may lean towards the Kailh Berry. With its higher bottom out force, the Kailh Berry offers a firmer push, enhancing the typing experience for those who prefer a stronger feedback.

Considering the weight of the switch is vital for personal preferences and use cases. While a lighter switch allows for extended typing with less strain, a heavier switch can provide a sense of durability and a more satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Ash Gray and the Kailh Berry will depend on the individual's preference for lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Kailh Berry linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches provide a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, which is commonly found in keyboards. This shorter travel distance is favored by gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you seek a more responsive typing experience, choosing the switch with the shorter travel distance, the Ash Gray, would be ideal. However, for those who prefer a deeper and more substantial key press, the Berry switch with its slightly longer travel distance may be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for either a shorter and snappier key press or a deeper and more satisfying keystroke.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch offers a neutral and moderate sound profile. This means that it has a balanced and versatile sound that is suitable for most users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists, and whether they are using the switch at home or in a work environment. On the other hand, the Kailh Berry linear switch has a low-pitched and bassy sound. This gives the switch a deeper and richer tone during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. It is worth noting that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so individual results may vary. Overall, if you prefer a more neutral sound, the Ash Gray switch would be a good choice, while if you prefer a deeper and bass-heavy sound, the Berry switch is more suitable.

In terms of feel, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch is described as easy-to-press and offering a mild typing experience. This means that the switch requires minimal force to activate, providing a responsive and low-impact typing feel. Typing on these switches is effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Kailh Berry linear switch, on the other hand, is described as textured. This means that it has noticeable friction when pressed, which some users may prefer for a tactile typing experience. However, others may prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience. Again, personal preference plays a significant role in determining the ideal feel for each individual. If you prefer a gentle and easy-to-press typing experience, the Ash Gray switch would be a good choice. If you prefer a more textured feel, the Berry switch may be more suitable.

In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Kailh Berry linear switch provide different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ash Gray switch offers a neutral sound, making it suitable for most users, while the Berry switch has a low-pitched and bassy sound. In terms of feel, the Ash Gray switch provides an easy-to-press and mild typing experience, while the Berry switch has a textured feel with noticeable friction. It is important to consider personal preference when choosing between these switches, as well as other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, to ensure the best typing experience for each individual. However, it is worth mentioning that if you prefer a sound or feel similar to one switch but not the other, you can try adjusting factors like the keyboard board and keycaps to achieve a similar result.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a light touch and a crisp actuation, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch would be a great choice. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, it offers a medium-light typing experience that is easy on your fingertips. The tactile feedback of the Ash Gray switch is substantial yet unobtrusive, providing a pleasant typing experience. In terms of sound, the Ash Gray switch has a neutral profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user. Additionally, the Ash Gray switch is described as easy-to-press, offering a low-impact typing feel that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more springy typing experience with a chalk-like texture, the Kailh Berry linear switch would be a better choice for you. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, the Berry switch offers a medium-heavy typing experience that provides a satisfying level of resistance. The sound profile of the Berry switch is fairly deep, giving it a bass-heavy and mellow tone during key presses. However, it is important to note that the Berry switch is described as textured, meaning it has noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer this texture, while others may prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience.

Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Kailh Berry linear switch depends on your personal preferences. If you value a light touch, crisp actuation, and an easy-to-press feel, the Ash Gray switch would be a great fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a springy typing experience with a chalk-like texture and a deeper sound profile, the Berry switch would be more suitable. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired level of resistance when choosing between these two switches.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Ash Gray Tactile

$3.00

$2.55 per 10

Learn more

Kailh Berry Linear

$6.25 per 10

Learn more