Kailh Berry vs. Durock Black Lotus

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from. Two popular linear switches to consider are the Kailh Berry and the Durock Black Lotus. The Berry switches are known for their hefty typing experience, providing a springy feel with a chalk-like texture. These switches have a fairly deep sound profile, categorized as textured, low-pitched, and bassy. On the other hand, the Black Lotus switches offer a silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision. They reduce housing and stem wobble for maximum typing pleasure and have a 55g actuation weight that is substantial but not too hefty. Additionally, the Black Lotus switches come with a unique light column for in-switch lighting that is fully removable. These switches are categorized as silky, buttery, mild, and polished. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.

By the numbers

Kailh Berry Linear

Durock Black Lotus Linear

$6.25 per 10

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

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Housing materials

The Kailh Berry and the Durock Black Lotus switches have contrasting materials for their top housings. The Berry utilizes polycarbonate, which creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This polycarbonate material is relatively stiff, resulting in a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Comparatively, the Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE blend housing, giving it a unique and premium feel. Although the specific qualities of this blend are not mentioned, it likely provides a different sound profile and aesthetic appeal.

Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches employ nylon as the material of choice. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Both the Berry and the Black Lotus benefit from these qualities, as they create a more satisfying typing experience.

In terms of overall performance, the top and bottom housings play significant roles. While the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, the top housing affects the sound when the key is released. Each switch leverages these contrasting materials to achieve different sound profiles and physical sensations. However, if one were to use only the information provided, it is possible to assume that the use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches would yield similar results in terms of sound and overall typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Durock Black Lotus linear switch, we can observe some similarities and differences. Starting with the actuation force, the Berry switch's value is unavailable, while the Black Lotus requires 55 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. Although we lack the exact figures for the Berry switch, it is safe to assume that it falls within a similar range to the Black Lotus, as both are linear switches.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the Berry switch requires 70 grams of force, which can be considered medium-heavy. In comparison, the Black Lotus switch has a slightly lower bottom out force of 63.5 grams. Both switches can provide a substantial typing experience, but the Berry switch might offer a slightly heavier feel when fully pressed.

Considering the importance of weight in keyboard preferences, those who prefer a lighter feel may lean towards the Black Lotus switch, as its actuation force is lighter than the Berry (assuming they are comparable). This lighter touch can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience might opt for the Berry switch, as its bottom out force is heavier than the Black Lotus.

In conclusion, while the exact actuation force of the Kailh Berry linear switch is not known, the similarities and differences between the bottom out forces of these switches allow for a comparison. The Berry switch is likely to offer a heavier typing experience, whereas the Black Lotus provides a slightly lighter touch. These characteristics make them suitable for users with different preferences and usage scenarios.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Durock Black Lotus linear switch, we can see that they have different measurements. The Berry has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Black Lotus has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Black Lotus has the longer travel distance compared to the Berry. A travel distance of 4.0mm is considered traditional, while 3.0mm is considered shallow. Gamers, in particular, often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times. So, if you value quick and responsive key presses, the Berry with its shorter travel distance would be the better choice. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a more substantial and satisfying typing experience, the Black Lotus with its longer travel distance would be the more suitable option. Ultimately, your preference will depend on whether you prioritize responsiveness or a deeper key press.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Kailh Berry linear switch is best known for its hefty typing experience, providing a springy feel and a chalk-like texture when typing. In terms of sound, the Berry switch has a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch offers a silky smooth feel with unparalleled precision. It reduces housing and stem wobble for maximum typing pleasure, and its 55g actuation weight provides substantial but not too hefty force required for key presses. The Black Lotus also has a unique light column for in-switch lighting, which is fully removable. Unfortunately, there is no information available regarding the sound profile of the Black Lotus switch.

In terms of feel, the Berry switch is described as textured, indicating noticeable friction when pressed. This texture may be preferred by some users, while others might prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience. On the other hand, the Black Lotus switch is described as silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. It is also referred to as buttery, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The Black Lotus switch is known for its mild characteristics, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the Black Lotus switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Considering the available information, the Kailh Berry linear switch offers a heavier and springier typing experience with a chalk-like texture. It has a low-pitched and bassy sound profile. On the other hand, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch provides a silky smooth feel with unparalleled precision, and it has a unique light column for in-switch lighting. Although no information is provided about the sound profile of the Black Lotus switch, it is safe to assume that it will offer a pleasant and smooth sound similar to its feel. Both switches have their own unique qualities, and the choice between them depends on personal preferences for typing experience and sound.

Conclusion

In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Durock Black Lotus linear switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and priorities. If you prioritize a heavier typing experience with a springy type feel and a deep sound profile, then the Kailh Berry switch would be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a silky smooth typing experience with minimal housing and stem wobble, precise actuation weight, and the option for in-switch lighting, then the Durock Black Lotus switch would be a better fit.

In terms of sound, the Kailh Berry switch is described as low-pitched and bassy, offering a more mellow and rich tone. Unfortunately, there is no available information about the sound profile of the Durock Black Lotus switch.

When it comes to feel, the Kailh Berry switch is known for its textured feel, which some users may find noticeable and prefer. On the other hand, the Durock Black Lotus switch is described as silky, buttery, mild, and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Overall, both switches have their own unique characteristics, and it would be beneficial to try them out firsthand or read more user reviews to determine which one aligns better with your typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Berry and Durock Black Lotus switches comes down to the specific typing experience you desire.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Berry Linear

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

Durock Black Lotus Linear

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more