Kailh Berry vs. KTT F2
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the KTT F2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Berry and the KTT F2 both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Berry stands out for its linear design, delivering a hefty typing experience with a springy feel and chalk-like texture. Its sound profile is characterized as textured, low-pitched, and bassy. On the other hand, the F2 sets itself apart with a distinct hollow sound signature and a medium-light weightiness that ensures a comfortable typing experience. Each keystroke on the F2 offers a lightly textured feel, adding a tactile nuance to every word and command. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Berry and the KTT F2, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, enhancing the clarity and resonance of the switch's sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, the Berry's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the F2's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches made with this material.
While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and crisp sound profile, the difference lies in the bottom housing material. The Berry's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder tone. In contrast, the F2's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound profile, aligning with the characteristics of the top housing material. This split in housing materials allows for a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
In summary, the Kailh Berry and KTT F2 switches offer a combination of housing materials that impact the sound profile in different ways. Both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing, providing a sharp and clear sound profile ideal for RGB lighting. The difference arises in the bottom housing material, with the Berry's nylon offering a deeper and fuller sound, while the F2's polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant tone. This diversity in housing materials allows for users to choose a switch that best suits their sound preferences and typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the KTT F2 linear switch, it is evident that the Berry has a significantly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams compared to the F2's 53 grams. The actuation force of the Berry is also unknown, while the F2 requires 43 grams. This makes the F2 a lighter option in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may lean towards the F2, while the Berry may be more suitable for individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel. However, if both switches have the same actuation force, users can expect similar results in terms of triggering keystrokes, with the main difference lying in the bottom out force and overall typing feel. Ultimately, the weight of the switch plays a crucial role in determining the typing experience, with lighter switches being more suitable for longer typing sessions and heavier switches offering a more robust typing feel.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to more traditional switches at 4.0mm. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the shorter travel distance of the KTT F2, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the slightly longer travel distance of the Kailh Berry. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25, whereas the KTT F2 comes in at $3.90.
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 sound profile, offering a deep and rich tone during key presses. On the other hand, the KTT F2 linear switch is described as having a neutral and subdued sound, providing a more moderate and dampened sound signature. While the Berry switch leans towards a heavier and more bass-heavy sound, the F2 switch offers a more balanced and subtle auditory experience. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by external factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch is characterized by a textured typing experience, offering noticeable friction when pressed. In contrast, the KTT F2 linear switch provides a feathery and gentle typing feel, requiring minimal exertion from the fingers. The F2 switch is described as mild and subtle, offering a more approachable and comfortable typing experience suitable for long periods of use. While the Berry switch provides a more tactile and textured feel, the F2 switch offers a lighter and smoother typing experience.
In conclusion, the Kailh Berry linear switch and the KTT F2 linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Berry switch provides a springy typing experience with a chalk-like texture and a deep sound profile, while the F2 switch stands out with a hollow sound signature and a light tactile feel. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between a heavier, more textured typing experience with the Berry switch, or a lighter, more subtle typing experience with the F2 switch. Ultimately, both switches offer quality linear options, and users can expect similar results in terms of smooth keystrokes and reliable performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the KTT F2 linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a hefty typing feel with a springy response and chalk-like texture, accompanied by a deep sound profile, the Berry switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more comfortable and lightly textured typing experience with a distinct hollow sound signature, the F2 switch could be a better fit. Additionally, if you prefer a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, the Berry switch would be suitable, while a neutral and subdued sound profile can be found in the F2 switch. Ultimately, if you prefer a textured feel, the Berry switch is a good option, whereas the feathery, mild, and subtle feel of the F2 switch offers a more gentle typing experience. Consider these factors when making your decision to ensure a satisfying typing experience tailored to your preferences.