Kailh Berry vs. Durock Ice King Tactile

Overview

When comparing the Kailh Berry linear switch to the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, it is evident that they offer distinct typing experiences. The Berry switch is praised for its springy feel and chalk-like texture, resulting in a hefty typing experience with a deep sound profile. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile switch stands out for its creamy smoothness and pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying tactile experience that blends the best of both worlds seamlessly. While the Berry switch offers a textured and low-pitched typing experience, the Ice King Tactile switch is described as silky, frictionless, and polished. Both switches have their unique appeals, catering to different preferences based on typing style and personal 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

Kailh Berry Linear

Durock Ice King Tactile Tactile

$6.25 per 10

$5.80

$4.20 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Kailh Berry and Durock Ice King Tactile both feature a top housing made of polycarbonate. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile in the Berry, while the Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The use of polycarbonate in the Berry results in a more clear and resonant sound, while the softer nylon of the Ice King Tactile absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both switches with either housing material will provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with slightly different sound profiles.

In terms of the bottom housing, both the Berry and Ice King Tactile feature a nylon bottom housing. This material is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile in switches. The softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This consistent housing material between the two switches ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings will have a consistent impact and bottom-out sound, regardless of the top housing material.

While the top and bottom housings of the Kailh Berry and Durock Ice King Tactile differ in material, the impact of each housing material is felt in different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing plays a larger role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. This split in housing materials allows for a more nuanced typing experience, as the qualities of each material interact in unique ways to create a satisfying sound and feel. Ultimately, whether it's a polycarbonate top housing in the Berry or a nylon top housing in the Ice King Tactile, the housing materials contribute to a distinct typing experience that caters to different preferences.

Weight

The Kailh Berry linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch both fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of bottom out force. However, the actuation force of the Berry switch is not specified, while the Ice King Tactile switch requires 58 grams of force to actuate. This means that the Ice King Tactile switch will provide a slightly lighter initial key press compared to the Berry switch. Additionally, both switches require 70 grams or less to bottom out, so in terms of overall force needed for a full keystroke, they are relatively similar. Depending on personal preference, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Ice King Tactile switch for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the slightly heavier feel of the Berry switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual typing preferences and comfort levels.

Travel distance

The Kailh Berry linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it slightly longer than the Durock Ice King Tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be easily noticeable to the average user, but for those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel, the extra 0.1 mm on the Berry switch could provide a bit more satisfying depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Kailh Berry linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy tone, providing a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch produces a more subdued and dampened sound when pressed, offering a subtle sound signature. The sound of both switches can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen for the setup.

When it comes to feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch is described as textured, providing noticeable friction when pressed, which can be either preferred or disliked depending on the user's preference for a smooth or scratchy typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch offers a silky, frictionless, stepped, and polished typing experience, enhancing overall smoothness and minimizing resistance or friction when pressing and releasing keys. This combination creates a unique and satisfying tactile sensation, catering to those who prefer a smoother typing feel.

Overall, while the Kailh Berry linear switch offers a springy typing experience with a chalk-like texture and a fairly deep sound profile, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch excels in providing a creamy smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing feedback. Depending on whether the user prefers a linear or tactile switch, they can achieve a satisfying typing experience with either of these switches, albeit with distinct sound and feel profiles.

Conclusion

To sum up, when choosing between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a springy and chalk-like textured typing experience with a deep sound profile, the Berry linear switch may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and creamy tactile typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump, the Ice King Tactile tactile switch could be the better choice. Additionally, if you prefer a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, the Berry switch is the way to go, while if you prefer a more subdued sound, the Ice King Tactile switch is ideal. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Berry Linear

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

Durock Ice King Tactile Tactile

$5.80

$4.20 per 10

Learn more