Kailh Berry vs. TTC Iron
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the TTC Iron switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Berry and the TTC Iron mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear switches, distinct characteristics come to light. The Berry is known for its hefty typing experience with a springy feel and chalk-like texture, providing a deep sound profile categorized as 'Textured', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bassy'. In contrast, the TTC Iron switch stands out for its pronounced clacky sound signature and remarkably light actuation, offering a satisfying typing experience with buttery smooth travel and categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Clacky', 'Mild', and 'Neutral'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences, making it important to consider what specifically you are looking for in a keyboard switch. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Berry and TTC Iron switches both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Berry features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the Iron uses a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Berry is translucent, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting, while the POM top housing of the Iron offers a different visual appeal. However, both switches aim to provide a pleasing sound experience, albeit with different characteristics.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Berry utilizes a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the Iron also has a POM bottom housing that creates a similarly deep and muted sound profile. While the materials may differ, both bottom housings aim to enhance the overall sound experience when typing on the switches. The use of different materials for the top and bottom housings allows for a unique combination of qualities that contribute to the sound and feel of each keystroke on both the Kailh Berry and TTC Iron switches.
Overall, the housing materials of the Kailh Berry and TTC Iron switches offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences. The polycarbonate top housing of the Berry provides a crisper sound, while the POM top housing of the Iron offers a more muted tone. Likewise, the nylon bottom housing of the Berry provides a fuller sound, while the POM bottom housing of the Iron creates a similarly deep sound. Both switches aim to provide a unique typing experience, and while their housing materials vary, they ultimately work together to create a satisfying sound and feel for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Berry linear switch to the TTC Iron linear switch, we can see that the Berry has a higher bottom out force of 70 grams compared to the Iron's 50 grams, making the Berry switch heavier. However, the Iron switch has a lower actuation force of 41 grams, while the Berry's actuation force is unknown. This means that the Iron switch is lighter to press down initially compared to the Berry. Both switches offer different experiences to the user - the Berry switch providing a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, while the Iron switch offers a lighter initial press for smooth typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference, with some favoring the lighter touch of the Iron switch for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier feel of the Berry switch for a more pronounced typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch and the TTC Iron linear switch both offer a smooth linear feel, making them popular choices for many. However, when it comes to travel distance, the Berry has a slightly shorter distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Iron's 3.8 mm. Despite the small difference, this can impact the typing experience for individuals who have a preference for either shorter or longer travel distances. Gamers may prefer the Berry for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress might lean towards the Iron. Ultimately, both switches offer a great typing experience, but the slight variation in travel distance can make a difference depending on personal preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Berry linear switch is known for its low-pitched and bassy characteristics, offering a deeper and mellower tone during key presses. On the other hand, the TTC Iron linear switch is renowned for its clacky sound profile, delivering a sharp and percussive sound that adds a unique auditory satisfaction to the typing experience. While the Berry leans towards a more subdued sound, the Iron provides a more lively and pronounced auditory feedback with each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference, whether you prefer a deeper, bass-heavy sound or a crisp, bright clack.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch is praised for its textured typing experience, offering a noticeable friction that adds a tactile element to each press. On the contrary, the TTC Iron linear switch provides an easy-to-press feel with minimal resistance, making typing effortless and comfortable. The Iron switch's mild characteristics ensure a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users, while the Berry's textured feel caters to those who appreciate a bit of feedback and resistance during typing. Depending on whether you prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience or a more tactile feel, the choice between the two switches would vary.
Taking into consideration the sound and feel qualities of the Kailh Berry and TTC Iron linear switches, it's evident that they offer distinct experiences to users. The Berry switch excels in providing a springy, textured typing feel with a low-pitched, bassy sound profile, while the Iron switch stands out for its smooth, easy-to-press sensation and clacky, percussive sound signature. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choosing between the two would ultimately depend on whether you prioritize a specific sound or feel in your mechanical keyboard. However, if you enjoy a deeper, richer sound and a more tactile typing experience, opting for the Kailh Berry switch may provide similar results to the TTC Iron, given their contrasting attributes.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the TTC Iron linear switch, you should consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a springy typing experience with a chalk-like texture, the Berry switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and appreciate a pronounced clacky sound signature with buttery smooth travel, the Iron switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a hefty typing experience with a deep sound profile (Berry) or a swift and fatigue-free typing experience with a clacky sound profile (Iron). Evaluate your sound and feel preferences to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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