Kailh Berry vs. Keygeek Keygeek Raw
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh Berry and the Keygeek Raw both offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The Berry switch is known for its linear design, providing a hefty typing experience with a springy feel and chalk-like texture. With a deep sound profile and categorized as 'textured', 'low-pitched', 'bassy', it appeals to those who prefer a tactile and robust typing experience. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw switch stands out for its unique material blend, combining nylon, UMPE, and silicon to create a creamy yet lightweight switch. Categorized as 'textured', 'mild', 'neutral', 'subtle', it offers a slightly textured feel out of the box, making it ideal for enthusiasts who enjoy hand-lubing their switches. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Berry switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp and crisp sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is also ideal for switches that will be paired with RGB lighting, thanks to its translucency. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switch features a Nylon & UPE blend top housing, which is exclusive to Keygeek Raw switches. This blend provides a unique sound profile that is deeper and fuller compared to polycarbonate.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Kailh Berry switch uses a nylon material that brings a deeper and fuller sound profile to typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Conversely, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switch utilizes a UMPE & Si blend for the bottom housing, which is also exclusive to Keygeek Raw switches. This blend offers its own unique qualities that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing. While the Kailh Berry and Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches may have different housing materials, each brings its unique characteristics to the typing experience. Whether it's the crispness of polycarbonate or the fuller sound of nylon, both switches offer distinct options for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a specific sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and desired typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch differ slightly in terms of weight. The Kailh Berry has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it slightly heavier compared to the Keygeek Raw, which has a bottom out force of 57.5 grams. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, but they are designed to provide a smooth linear typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Keygeek Raw may be the preferred choice due to its lower bottom out force. On the other hand, the Kailh Berry may be more suitable for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, we can see that the Berry has a travel distance of 3.6 mm while the Keygeek Raw has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular due to their faster response times, particularly favored by gamers. If you are looking for a switch with a slightly longer travel distance, the Berry would be the slightly longer option, but the difference between the two is very minimal. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, providing a quick and responsive key press for efficient typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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 offers a low-pitched and bassy tone, providing a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for various users and environments. Both switches will deliver a satisfying typing experience, but the Berry may be preferred by those who enjoy a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the Keygeek Raw appeals to those who seek a more neutral and versatile sound.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch is noted for its textured typing experience, featuring a chalk-like texture that adds a unique tactile element to the switches. The Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch also offers a textured feel out of the box, providing a slightly textured typing experience that can be further enhanced with hand-lubing. Additionally, the Keygeek Raw switch is described as mild and subtle, offering a gentle and approachable typing feel that falls into a safe, middle-ground zone. Both switches offer a tactile typing experience with their textured feel, catering to users who appreciate a bit of friction when typing.
Overall, both the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch offer unique characteristics that will appeal to different preferences. The Berry switch provides a springy, chalk-like textured feel with a deep, bassy sound profile, ideal for those seeking a more tactile and rich typing experience. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw switch features a creamy and lightweight material blend, along with a neutral sound profile and a slightly textured feel that can be further customized through lubing. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to individual preferences in sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, when deciding between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, you should consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a heavier typing feel with a chalk-like texture and a deep sound profile, the Kailh Berry switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing experience with a blend of materials that provide a creamy and textured feel, along with a neutral sound profile, then the Keygeek Raw switch is worth considering. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
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