Kailh Berry vs. TTC Honey
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the TTC Honey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Berry and the TTC Honey are two popular options worth considering. The Berry switches are best known for their linear design, offering a hefty typing experience with a springy feel. The typing experience is enhanced by the chalk-like texture when pressing the keys. Additionally, the Berry switches produce a deep and low-pitched sound profile, adding to the overall satisfaction. On the other hand, the Honey switches provide a smooth and creamy type feel, which many find pleasant and satisfying. The sound profile of the Honey switches is deep and delightful. While the Berry switches offer a textured and bassy experience, the Honey switches are more subdued, creamy, and polished. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Berry and TTC Honey have similar polycarbonate top housing materials. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a clearer and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it particularly beneficial for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either switch.
However, there is a notable difference between the bottom housing materials of the Kailh Berry and TTC Honey. The Berry employs a nylon bottom housing, while the Honey utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, primarily because it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Honey contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This disparity in bottom housing materials will affect the overall sound and feel of the switch when pressed down. Users will experience the qualities of the bottom housing during the bottom-out sound and feel.
In summary, while both switches share a polycarbonate top housing, the differences lie in their bottom housing materials. The Kailh Berry's nylon bottom housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the TTC Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. It is important to consider these distinctions when selecting a switch, as the bottom housing material will have a significant impact on the switch's sound and feel during typing. However, the top housing material's influence will be more noticeable when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Berry linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, one key difference lies in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Kailh Berry switch has an unavailable actuation force, while the TTC Honey switch requires a lighter actuation force of 42 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Kailh Berry switch exerts a heavier 70 grams, whereas the TTC Honey switch has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. The difference in weight between these switches provides a clear distinction in typing experiences. The Kailh Berry switch caters to individuals who prefer a stronger push feel, making it suitable for those seeking a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Honey switch offers a lighter actuation force, enabling users to type for longer periods without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, it is evident that the Berry has a shorter distance while the Honey has a longer one. The Berry has a travel distance of 3.6mm, whereas the Honey has a travel distance of 3.8mm. These distances fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the shorter 3.6mm travel distance of the Berry switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and may prefer a switch with a longer travel distance. In this case, the 3.8mm travel distance of the Honey switch would be more suitable. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and the level of depth desired in the switch's travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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 and springy typing experience. When typing on these switches, there is a chalk-like texture that adds to the overall feel. The sound profile of the Berry switches is fairly deep, with a low-pitched and bassy tone. This gives the switches a rich and mellow sound during key presses. Overall, the Berry switches provide a unique typing experience with their tactile texture and deep sound profile.
On the other hand, the TTC Honey linear switch is best known for its smooth and creamy typing feel. These switches offer a buttery and frictionless experience, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. The Honey switches provide a subtle typing feel with gentle resistance, making them suitable for shared spaces. In terms of sound, the Honey switches produce a subdued and dampened sound when pressed. This offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. The combination of the smooth feel and subdued sound of the Honey switches adds to a pleasant typing experience.
In conclusion, the Kailh Berry and TTC Honey linear switches have distinct qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Berry switches provide a springy and textured typing experience with a deep and mellow sound profile. On the other hand, the Honey switches offer a smooth and creamy feel with a subtle and dampened sound. If you are looking for a tactile and textured typing experience, the Berry switches are recommended. If you prefer a smooth and buttery feel with a more subtle sound, the Honey switches would be a great choice. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, depending on your preferences. However, it is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience. If you prefer a heavier typing feel with a springy sensation and a chalk-like texture, the Berry switch with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams would be a suitable choice for you. Additionally, if you enjoy deeper and bass-heavy sound profiles during key presses, the Berry switch would also cater to that preference.
On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter typing feel and value a smooth and creamy type experience, the TTC Honey switch with its light bottom out force of 50 grams would be more appropriate. The Honey switch offers a pleasant and deep sound profile, making it an appealing option for those seeking a more subdued sound when typing.
Ultimately, your decision should be based on the desired typing feel and sound profile that aligns best with your personal preferences. Whether you prefer the textured and springy feel of the Berry switch or the creamy and smooth sensation of the Honey switch, both options provide unique experiences that can enhance your overall typing enjoyment.
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