Everglide Bamboo Green vs. Kailh Berry
An in-depth look at the Everglide Bamboo Green and the Kailh Berry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from. Two popular choices are the Everglide Bamboo Green, a tactile switch, and the Kailh Berry, a linear switch. The Bamboo Green switches are renowned for their clacky sound signature and crisp tactility. They fall under the categories of 'Stepped', 'High-pitched', 'Accented', 'Sharp', 'Resonant', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Berry switches offer a hefty typing experience with a springy type feel and a chalk-like texture. They have a sound profile that is described as fairly deep, categorized as 'Textured', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bassy'. Both switches have their unique characteristics, creating distinct typing experiences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision about which switch is best suited for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
PBT
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
PBT
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Everglide Bamboo Green and the Kailh Berry switches differ in several aspects. The Bamboo Green features a PBT top housing, which offers a neutral sound profile that is neither crisp nor dull. In contrast, the Berry utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for incorporating RGB lighting into the switch. Therefore, if you prioritize a more vibrant sound and the option for customizable lighting effects, the Berry switch with its polycarbonate top housing would be more suitable.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Bamboo Green and the Berry showcase different materials. The Bamboo Green employs a PBT bottom housing, which, similar to its top housing, provides a neutral sound profile. Meanwhile, the Berry utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone. If you prefer a switch with a more muted and rounded sound, the Berry with its nylon bottom housing would be the better choice.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housing materials play different roles in the overall performance of a switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Despite their differences in material, both the Bamboo Green and the Berry switches strive to provide an optimal typing experience. So, although the sound profiles may differ, both switches aim to deliver satisfying results, emphasizing user preference in terms of crispness or dullness in sound.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch and the Kailh Berry linear switch, one noticeable difference lies in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Bamboo Green has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, both falling within the medium range. On the other hand, the Berry switch's actuation force is unknown, while its bottom out force is 70 grams, making it slightly heavier in comparison.
Considering weight is essential for different individuals based on their preferences and usage. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience might find the Bamboo Green switch more suitable, as its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for extended typing periods without too much effort. This lighter weight is advantageous, especially for those who use their keyboards extensively for work or lengthy gaming sessions.
However, individuals seeking a more substantial and tactile typing experience might lean towards the Kailh Berry linear switch. With its medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, there is a stronger push feel when pressing the key, providing a more satisfying and pronounced typing experience. This heavier force can be preferred by those who value the solidity and feedback that comes with a stronger push.
In terms of actuation force, the exact amount for the Kailh Berry switch is unavailable. Nonetheless, if it happens to be similar to the 43-gram actuation force of the Bamboo Green, both switches would provide comparable results in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke.
Ultimately, the choice between the Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch and the Kailh Berry linear switch will depend on individual preferences. Those who prioritize a lighter typing experience may opt for the Bamboo Green, while individuals seeking a more substantial and tactile feel may gravitate towards the Berry switch's heavier bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch and the Kailh Berry linear switch have different travel distances. The Bamboo Green has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered to be a more traditional distance. On the other hand, the Berry has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is slightly shorter. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times, making it the preferred option for those seeking quick and precise inputs. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial and profound keystroke, the switch with the longer travel distance would be the better choice. In terms of travel distance, the Bamboo Green is longer than the Berry. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Bamboo Green has an MSRP of $9.67 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bamboo Green for $7.19.
The Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25 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
When it comes to sound, the Everglide Bamboo Green switches have a high-pitched and resonant sound profile. Pressing these switches results in a sharp and crisp sound, creating a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Berry linear switches produce a low-pitched and bassy sound. The sound is deeper and richer, reminiscent of bass tones. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired sound profile. Both switches can provide an immersive typing experience, but with different characteristics.
In terms of feel, the Everglide Bamboo Green switches can be described as stepped, accented, sharp, and polished. These switches offer a mild tactile feedback with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. The tactility is prominent without being overwhelming, providing a medium tactile experience. The sharp and crisp tactile bump can be felt distinctly with each keypress. Additionally, these switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Kailh Berry switches are described as textured, indicating noticeable friction when pressed. Some users prefer this subtle texture, while others prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience. Again, the choice between the two depends on personal preference and typing preferences.
Based on the available information, the Everglide Bamboo Green and Kailh Berry switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Bamboo Green switches provide a clacky sound profile with sparkling tactility, while the Berry switches offer a deep sound with a springy and chalk-like texture. These switches cater to different preferences and typing styles. However, if you prefer a high-pitched and resonant sound with a stepped, accented, sharp, and polished feel, you can achieve similar results with the Bamboo Green switches. Similarly, if you prefer a low-pitched and bassy sound with a textured feel, you can achieve comparable results with the Kailh Berry switches. Ultimately, the choice between these switches boils down to personal preference and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you enjoy a clacky sound with a crisp and sparkling tactility when typing, the Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. It has a bottom out force of 62 grams, delivering a medium typing experience. In terms of sound, the Bamboo Green produces a high-pitched and resonant auditory experience, which can be quite immersive. Additionally, it offers various feel options, such as stepped, accented, sharp, and polished, ensuring a tactile feedback intensity that suits your preference.
On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a hefty typing experience and a chalk-like texture, the Kailh Berry linear switch is the way to go. With a slightly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, it provides a medium-heavy typing experience. The Berry switch has a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, characterized by a deeper and richer tone during key presses. While it doesn't offer as many feel options as the Bamboo Green, it is described as having a textured feel that adds noticeable friction when pressed.
Ultimately, your choice between the Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch and the Kailh Berry linear switch will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Consider the specific qualities and attributes of each switch that align with your preferences to make an informed decision. By understanding the unique characteristics of these switches, you can select the one that enhances your typing experience and brings the utmost satisfaction.
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