Kailh Berry vs. Bsun Pine
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Bsun Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Berry linear switch and the BSUN Pine tactile switch offer distinct typing experiences. The Berry switch provides a springy and chalk-like texture with a deep sound profile, making it a favorite for those who enjoy a hefty typing experience. On the other hand, the Pine switch is known for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, offering clear-cut feedback and fast action for a direct and no-nonsense typing experience. Both switches have their unique characteristics and advantages, catering to different preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Berry and Bsun Pine both share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This material is ideal for switches that aim to produce clear and resonant sound, especially if RGB lighting is a consideration. However, the Berry and Pine differ in their choice of material for the bottom housing, with the Berry utilizing nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Pine also opts for nylon, contributing to a duller and rounder sound by absorbing more sound than harder plastics.
Despite sharing commonalities in their polycarbonate top housings, the Kailh Berry and Bsun Pine showcase distinctions in their bottom housing materials. The Berry's nylon bottom housing allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, thanks to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. Conversely, the Pine's use of nylon for the bottom housing also contributes to a similar effect, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastic alternatives. This difference in bottom housing material highlights how the sound and feel of a switch can be influenced by various components.
In the context of both switches, the division between the top and bottom housing materials plays a significant role in the overall sound experience. The bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is more pronounced, as it directly affects the typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing's influence on the sound when releasing a key showcases how different materials can contribute to various aspects of the switch's performance. By understanding the unique qualities of each housing material used in the Kailh Berry and Bsun Pine, enthusiasts can make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Bsun Pine tactile switch, it is clear that the Pine switch is lighter overall. The Berry switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is heavier compared to the Pine switch's 65 grams. However, when it comes to actuation force, the Berry switch does not have a specified force, while the Pine switch requires 45 grams. This means that while the Berry switch may have a heavier feel when bottoming out, the Pine switch requires a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke. Both switches fall under the medium-heavy category in terms of bottom out force, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a bit of resistance. Ultimately, those looking for a lighter typing experience may gravitate towards the Bsun Pine switch, while those seeking a bit more weight behind each keystroke may find the Kailh Berry switch more to their liking.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Berry has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Pine. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular for their quick response times. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor switches with shorter travel distances. However, for those who prefer a more substantial feeling when typing or gaming, the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Berry may provide a more satisfying experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
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 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 Bsun Pine tactile switch does not have specific sound descriptors provided, so it is difficult to directly compare the sound profiles of the two switches. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Berry linear switch is described as having a textured feel, offering a springy typing experience with a chalk-like texture. In contrast, the Bsun Pine tactile switch is known for its accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy feel. These characteristics contribute to a unique typing experience with a notably sharp tactile bump and fast action, making them a favorite for users who appreciate direct and no-nonsense tactility.
In conclusion, the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Bsun Pine tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Berry switch provides a low-pitched and bassy sound profile with a textured typing feel, the Pine switch offers a sharp tactile bump and snappy responsiveness for a more intense and engaging typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that can cater to different typing styles and preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on the specific qualities that each user values in their mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Kailh Berry linear switch or the Bsun Pine tactile switch, your decision should be based on your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a springy and chalk-like texture with a deep sound profile, the Berry switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharp tactile bump with clear-cut feedback and fast action, the Pine switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you value most. So, whether you choose the Berry for its linear feel or the Pine for its tactile feedback, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches.
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