Kailh Berry vs. TTC Flame Red
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the TTC Flame Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Berry and the TTC Flame Red, both of which are linear switches. The Berry switches are widely recognized for their hefty typing experience, offering users a springy feel and a chalk-like texture when typing. Additionally, these switches produce a fairly deep sound profile, making them appealing to those who prefer a more textured, low-pitched, and bassy auditory experience. On the other hand, the Flame Reds are renowned for their dazzling light diffuser, making them the ideal choice for those seeking a backlit, RGB keyboard. While typing on these switches, users can expect a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, providing a neutral, mild, and polished typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the switch that suits your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
54g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Berry and TTC Flame Red switches have different housing materials, with the Berry featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Flame Red has a nylon housing for both the top and bottom. The use of polycarbonate in the Berry's top housing contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Flame Red's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. Therefore, users can expect a difference in sound when pressing down and releasing keys between the two switches.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Berry and Flame Red switches utilize nylon. This ensures a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon. Despite having different top housings, the bottom housing materials of both switches provide a similar sound experience. The use of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to a duller and rounder sound, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a softer typing experience. Therefore, users can expect consistent sound characteristics while pressing down keys on both the Berry and Flame Red switches.
It is important to note that the qualities brought by the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. This means that when pressing down on a key, the bottom housing will have a greater impact on the sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing will be more influential when releasing a key. Understanding this distinction can help users choose the switch that aligns with their preferences for both the pressing and releasing sound experience. Whether opting for the polycarbonate top housing of the Berry or the nylon top housing of the Flame Red, both switches offer unique sound profiles based on the materials used in their respective housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, it is clear that there are significant differences between the two. The actuation force of the Berry switch is currently unknown, whereas the Flame Red switch has an actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Berry switch requires a heavier force of 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy, while the Flame Red switch has a lighter bottom out force of 54 grams, classifying it as medium-light.
Considering the weight of the switches, it becomes evident that they cater to different preferences. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Flame Red switch with its 45-gram actuation force and 54-gram bottom out force would be more suitable. This lighter weight allows for longer typing periods, making it ideal for professional environments or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who seek a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Berry switch. Although the actuation force for the Berry switch is unknown, its heavier bottom out force of 70 grams would provide users with a stronger push feel.
In summary, while the actuation force for the Kailh Berry linear switch is unavailable, it boasts a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams. In contrast, the TTC Flame Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams. Consequently, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience would gravitate towards the Flame Red switch, while those seeking a stronger push feel may lean towards the Berry switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, it is evident that they have different distances. The Berry has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Flame Red has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of gaming preferences, shorter travel distances are becoming increasingly popular due to their ability to provide faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Berry switch with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer a deeper keystroke experience. In this case, the Flame Red switch with its longer travel distance would be the more suitable option. Thus, depending on your personal preference for responsiveness or a more pronounced keystroke, you can make an informed decision based on the travel distances of these switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
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
The Kailh Berry linear switch is known for its hefty typing experience, with a springy type feel and a chalk-like texture when typing on them. The sound profile of the Berry switch is described as low-pitched and bassy, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during key presses. On the other hand, the TTC Flame Red linear switch is visually impressive with its dazzling light diffuser, making it the perfect choice for a backlit, RGB keyboard. When typing on the Flame Red switch, users will feel a weighty smoothness and experience a clacky sound profile. The sound profile of the Flame Red switch is described as neutral, which means it has a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes.
In conclusion, the Kailh Berry and TTC Flame Red linear switches may provide different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Berry switch offers a low-pitched and bassy sound profile along with a textured typing experience, while the Flame Red switch provides a neutral sound profile with a weighty smoothness and clacky feel. Depending on personal preference, one may prefer the mellow and bass-heavy sound of the Berry switch or the more neutral sound of the Flame Red switch. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics, and it is important to consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used to achieve the desired sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who values a hefty typing experience with a springy feel and a deep sound profile, the Kailh Berry linear switch would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, it provides a medium-heavy typing experience. In terms of sound, the Berry switch offers a low-pitched and bassy tone, making it ideal for those who prefer a more mellow and rich sound profile. However, it's important to note that the Berry switch is described as having a textured feel, meaning there will be noticeable friction when typing.
On the other hand, if you prioritize visual aesthetics, especially if you have a backlit or RGB keyboard, the TTC Flame Red linear switch is the way to go. These switches come with a dazzling light diffuser, perfect for showcasing your keyboard's lighting effects. In terms of feel, the Flame Red switch offers a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, providing a pleasant typing experience. With a bottom out force of 54 grams, it falls into the medium-light category. Its sound profile is described as neutral, making it suitable for a variety of users, whether you're a beginner or advanced, or using it at home or work. The Flame Red switch is also considered mild and polished, meaning it offers a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the decision between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch comes down to your personal preferences. Consider factors such as the typing experience you desire, the sound profile you prefer, and whether visual aesthetics or feel are more important to you. Both switches have their own unique qualities that can enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
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