Kailh Berry vs. Jwick Ginger Milk

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from. Two popular linear switches that offer unique typing experiences are the Kailh Berry and the Jwick Ginger Milk. The Berry switches are best known for their hefty typing experience, featuring a springy feel and a chalk-like texture when typing. They produce a deep sound profile that is categorized as textured, low-pitched, and bassy. In contrast, the Ginger Milk switches provide a soft and pastel typing experience. With a silky smooth and approachable push feel, these switches have a muted and snappy sound profile. Categorized as neutral and buttery, the Ginger Milk switches are known for their comfortable typing experience. However, let's delve deeper into these switches to help you make the best decision for your needs.

By the numbers

Kailh Berry Linear

Jwick Ginger Milk Linear

$6.25 per 10

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Kailh Berry and the Jwick Ginger Milk switches are quite similar. Both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the transparency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that intend to use RGB lighting. Therefore, in terms of sound quality and aesthetic considerations, both switches will offer similar results.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Berry and the Ginger Milk differ in their choice of material. The Berry uses nylon for its bottom housing, while the Ginger Milk also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches will have this similar characteristic, contributing to the overall typing experience.

Considering the impact of housing materials, it is important to note that the qualities brought by each material are divided between the top and bottom housing of the switch. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing will have a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Berry and the Ginger Milk may share similar housing materials, the specific arrangement of these materials in the switches may result in subtle differences in sound and feel during use.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of actuation force, the Berry switch's specific force is unavailable, while the Ginger Milk switch requires 50 grams to trigger a keystroke. This suggests that the Ginger Milk switch has a slightly lighter actuation force than the Berry switch.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the Berry switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Ginger Milk switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, also falling into the medium-heavy category. Therefore, both switches have a similar bottom out force, providing a comparable typing experience in terms of the resistance felt when pressing all the way down.

Considering the weight factor, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Ginger Milk switch more suitable due to its lower actuation force. This lighter actuation force allows for extended typing periods, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, for those who prefer a more substantial push feel, the Berry switch may be a better choice with its higher actuation force, providing a stronger and more pronounced typing experience.

In summary, while the Ginger Milk switch has a lighter actuation force compared to the Berry switch, both switches offer a similar bottom out force. The weight consideration plays a significant role in choosing the desired typing experience, with the Ginger Milk switch catering to those who prefer a lighter feel and the Berry switch appealing to individuals seeking a heavier, more substantial typing experience.

Travel distance

The Kailh Berry linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Berry has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Ginger Milk has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Although the difference is minimal, the Ginger Milk switch has a slightly longer travel distance.

In terms of comparing the two switches, it is important to consider personal preferences and use cases. A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, while a distance of 3.0 mm is shallower. However, shorter travel distances have become increasingly popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If responsiveness is a key factor for you, opting for a switch with a shorter travel distance, such as the Berry, would be a suitable choice.

Conversely, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt or lacking in depth. If you prefer a more hearty and substantial typing experience, the Ginger Milk switch with its slightly longer travel distance might be more appealing. It offers a slightly greater sense of key travel, which can result in a more satisfying and deliberate keystroke.

Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user. Whether you choose the shorter travel distance of the Berry or the slightly longer travel distance of the Ginger Milk, you can expect comparable results in terms of overall functionality and performance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Kailh Berry linear switch is known for its low-pitched and bassy tones. These switches have a deeper and richer sound profile, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch has a neutral sound profile. It has a moderate sound profile with no particular emphasis on bass or treble, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch offers a springy and textured typing experience. The switches have a noticeable chalk-like texture when pressed, providing a unique tactile feedback. Some users prefer this subtle texture, while others may prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch is described as buttery. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, offering a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation.

Taking all the available information into account, the Kailh Berry linear switch provides a hefty typing experience with a deep sound profile and a textured feel. On the other hand, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch offers a soft and pastel typing experience with a neutral sound profile and a buttery feel. While they differ in certain subjective qualities, both switches are suitable for various preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a deeper and textured typing experience, the Kailh Berry switch would be a great choice. If you prefer a smoother and more uniform typing sensation, the Jwick Ginger Milk switch would be a suitable option. However, it's important to remember that personal preferences play a significant role in choosing the right switch, and it is recommended to try out different options to find the one that suits you best.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're looking for a linear switch with a hefty typing experience and a fairly deep sound profile, the Kailh Berry linear switch would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, these switches provide a springy and textured feel when typing. The sound profile is low-pitched and bassy, which adds to the overall typing experience.

On the other hand, if you prefer a softer and more pastel typing experience, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch might be the better option for you. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, these switches offer a silky smooth and approachable push feel. The sound profile is neutral, making it suitable for various purposes and environments.

If you prioritize a textured and scratchy feel when typing, the Berry switch would be the way to go. However, if you prefer a buttery and fluid keystroke experience, the Ginger Milk switch is the better fit.

Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch depends on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile. Consider how much force you prefer for your switches and whether you prioritize a deeper or more neutral sound. These factors will help guide you in making the right decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Berry Linear

$6.25 per 10

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Jwick Ginger Milk Linear

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more