Kailh Berry vs. Kailh Box White

Overview

The world of mechanical keyboards offers a plethora of options, each designed to cater to specific preferences and typing styles. Two switches that stand out are the Kailh Berry, a linear switch, and the Kailh Box White, a clicky switch. The Berry switch is renowned for its linear feel, providing a robust typing experience that feels springy and satisfying. With a chalk-like texture and a fairly deep sound profile categorized as textured, low-pitched, and bassy, it offers a unique sensation and acoustics. On the other hand, the Box White switch caters to those who crave maximum audio feedback during typing. With a clicky sound reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves and an accented tactility, it delivers an immersive experience for those seeking an audible typing adventure. Categorized as resonant, high-pitched, crunchy, and polished, the Box White switch is perfect for enthusiasts who appreciate a distinct sensory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.

By the numbers

Kailh Berry Linear

Kailh Box White Clicky

$6.25 per 10

$2.76 per 10

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Housing materials

The Kailh Berry and the Kailh Box White share similar housing materials. Both switches have a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic that enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. Moreover, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. So, whether you choose the Berry or the Box White, you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetics.

While both switches have a polycarbonate top housing, their bottom housings differ. The Berry features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housing. On the other hand, the Box White also has a nylon bottom housing, so you can expect to experience the same deeper and fuller sound profile as the Berry switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch.

In summary, the key difference between the Kailh Berry and the Kailh Box White lies in their bottom housing material. Both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, which enhances the sound profile and suits RGB lighting setups. However, the Berry utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Box White also encompasses a nylon bottom housing for a similar auditory experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a sharper sound profile (Berry) or a sound profile with a rounder and duller tone (Box White).

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Kailh Box White clicky switch, there are notable differences. The actuation force of the Berry switch is not disclosed, making it difficult to directly compare to the Box White switch which has an actuation force of 50 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Berry switch requiring 70 grams and the Box White switch requiring 60 grams.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Box White switch with its lower actuation force may be more suitable. This lighter weight allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it ideal for individuals who use their keyboards extensively throughout the day or during extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, for those who enjoy a stronger push and desire a more substantial typing feedback, the Berry switch may be preferable. While the actuation force of the Berry switch is unknown, the heavier bottom out force of 70 grams suggests a more solid and satisfying key press sensation.

Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and individual typing style. It is worth considering weight as it can significantly impact typing comfort and overall typing experience. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics, providing users with options that suit their specific needs and preferences.

Travel distance

The Kailh Berry linear switch and the Kailh Box White clicky switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent 3.6 mm of travel. Whether you prefer a linear or clicky switch, the distance you feel when pressing down on the keys will be identical. Therefore, both switches offer a similar tactile experience in terms of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Kailh Berry linear switch is best known for its hefty typing experience and springy type feel. When typing on the Berry switch, users will notice a chalk-like texture, providing a unique tactile sensation. In terms of sound, the Berry switch produces a fairly deep and bass-heavy tone, giving it a mellow sound profile. However, it is important to note that the actual sound of the switch may vary depending on factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

On the other hand, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is designed for those who desire maximum audio feedback. When typing on the Box White switch, users will experience an accented tactility and a distinct "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch. The clicky nature of this switch provides a highly satisfying auditory experience. Described as resonant and high-pitched, the Box White switch produces clean and sharp sounds when pressed.

In terms of feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch is described as having a textured or scratchy feel. This means that the switch has noticeable friction when pressed, providing a tactile feedback that some users prefer. On the other hand, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is described as polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. The polished finish reduces friction, allowing for smooth key travel.

Overall, the Kailh Berry linear switch offers a springy and hefty typing experience with a chalk-like texture. It produces a low-pitched and bass-heavy sound profile. In contrast, the Kailh Box White clicky switch provides maximum audio feedback with an accented tactility and a "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch. It has a resonant and high-pitched sound profile. While the Berry switch offers a textured feel, the Box White switch offers a polished and smooth typing experience. Both switches have their unique qualities, allowing users to select the one that best suits their preferences. However, it is essential to consider additional factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps to further enhance the subjective experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a springy feel and a chalk-like texture, the Kailh Berry linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. These switches provide a hefty typing experience and have a fairly deep sound profile. On the other hand, if you desire maximum audio feedback with an accented tactility, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is the way to go. These switches offer a "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch and a resonant, high-pitched sound profile. Additionally, if you prefer a textured switch with noticeable friction, the Berry would be a good fit, while the Box White provides a polished, smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the Berry and the Box White comes down to your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and feel.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Berry Linear

$6.25 per 10

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Kailh Box White Clicky

$2.76 per 10

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