Kailh Berry vs. TTC Brother
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the TTC Brother switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the linear Kailh Berry switch to the clicky TTC Brother switch, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Berry switch provides a hefty and springy typing experience with a chalk-like texture, emitting a deep sound profile categorized as textured, low-pitched, and bassy. On the other hand, the Brother switch is known for its lightweight nature and breezy actuation, offering a tactile experience with a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature that appeals to clicky switch enthusiasts. While the Berry switch focuses on a smooth linear feel, the Brother switch excels in providing a satisfying clicky feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
17.5mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Kailh Berry and the TTC Brother utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance in sound production, making it a popular choice for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. While both switches share the same top housing material, they may differ in terms of design and overall aesthetics.
In contrast, the Kailh Berry features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for its softer nature, absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics and producing a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the TTC Brother also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, indicating a similar emphasis on sound quality and tactile feedback when typing. Despite sharing the same bottom housing material, the switches may vary in their overall typing experience due to other factors in their design.
When comparing the two switches, it is important to note that the qualities of each housing material are distributed differently within the switch itself. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, influencing the overall typing experience, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Kailh Berry and the TTC Brother may have similar housing materials, their performance and feel may differ based on the distribution of these materials within the switch design.
Weight
In comparing the Kailh Berry linear switch and the TTC Brother clicky switch, it is evident that they have different characteristics when it comes to actuation force and bottom out force. The Berry switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch in terms of the force required to press the key all the way down, while its actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the Brother switch has an actuation force of 37 grams, making it lighter in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke, but its bottom out force is not provided. This makes the Brother switch potentially lighter overall compared to the Berry switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Brother switch may be the better option, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Berry switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Brother clicky switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Brother clicky switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Berry linear switch. Both switches are in the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the Brother clicky switch to feel more abrupt, while others may appreciate the snappiness it provides. Ultimately, the decision between the two would depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Berry linear switch is known for its low-pitched and bassy tones, providing a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the TTC Brother clicky switch offers a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences, with the Berry offering a more mellow tone and the Brother delivering a crisp and precise click that will surely delight enthusiasts of clicky switches.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch is noted for its textured typing experience, providing noticeable friction when pressed that some users may prefer for its tactile feedback. In contrast, the TTC Brother clicky switch is described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and minimal force required for activation. Additionally, the Brother switch is mentioned to have a stepped feel, providing a mild tactile feedback with distinct pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation. Ultimately, the Berry switch offers a springy feel with a chalk-like texture, while the Brother switch provides a lightweight and breezy actuation for a comfortable and responsive typing experience.
In conclusion, the Kailh Berry linear switch and the TTC Brother clicky switch offer distinct qualities in terms of both sound and feel. While the Berry switch provides a deep and bassy sound with a textured typing experience, the Brother switch delivers a crunchy click with an easy-to-press feel and a stepped tactile feedback. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, both switches can offer a satisfying and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience. It's worth noting that individual results may vary based on factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used with these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the TTC Brother clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a springy feel and deep sound profile, the Berry switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lightweight, tactile typing experience with a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, the Brother switch could be more up your alley. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and tactile feedback when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing needs and preferences.
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