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Kailh Berry vs. Bsun Kiki Red

An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Bsun Kiki Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch both offer unique qualities for a satisfying typing experience. The Berry switch is known for its hefty typing feel with a springy sensation and a chalk-like texture, producing a deep sound profile categorized as 'Textured', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bassy'. On the other hand, the Kiki Red switch boasts a finely-tuned typing experience with a high-pitched, clacky nuance that is not excessively loud. Its all-POM housings and Ly stems contribute to a smooth actuation, while the medium-light weighting provides a subtle auditory feedback and performance finesse, categorized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Polished', 'Silky', 'Snappy', and 'Easy-to-press'. 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

42g

Bottom-out force

70g

Bottom-out force

50g

Pre-travel

1.70 mm

Pre-travel

N/A

Total travel

3.60 mm

Total travel

3.60 mm

Factory lubed

No

Factory lubed

Yes

Stem construction

Standard

Stem construction

Standard

Stem material

POM

Stem material

Ly

Top housing material

Polycarbonate

Top housing material

POM

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Bottom housing material

POM

Mount type

Plate (3-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

Stainless steel

Spring

20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Berry and the Bsun Kiki Red, we can see some similarities and differences. Both switches feature unique top housing materials; the Berry uses polycarbonate, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Kiki Red uses POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While the Berry's polycarbonate creates a clear and resonant sound, the Kiki Red's POM offers a more subtle and pleasing sound experience.

In terms of bottom housing materials, there is a slight contrast between the two switches. The Berry utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In comparison, the Kiki Red also features a POM bottom housing, contributing to its unique sound profile that is deeper and more muted. Despite the materials being different, both bottom housings aim to enhance the overall sound experience of the switch, albeit through slightly different means.

Overall, the choice of housing materials for both the Kailh Berry and the Bsun Kiki Red plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile and feel of these switches. While the Berry's polycarbonate and nylon housing combination creates a clear and resonant sound, the Kiki Red's POM housing materials provide a deeper and more muted sound experience. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in typing sound and feel. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile with the Berry or a deeper, more subdued sound with the Kiki Red, both switches offer a distinctive typing experience based on their housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, there are significant differences to consider. The Berry switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it extremely light, while the Kiki Red switch has an actuation force of 42 grams, which is slightly heavier. In terms of bottom out force, the Berry switch requires 70 grams of force, classified as medium-heavy, while the Kiki Red switch only needs 50 grams, which is considered light. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Kiki Red switch for longer typing sessions, while those who desire a more substantial push feel may opt for the Berry switch for a stronger typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.

Travel distance

Both the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.6mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity in travel distance allows for a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch is being used. The equal travel distance of 3.6mm on both switches makes them ideal options for individuals who prefer a specific key press feel without having to worry about variations in travel distance.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

The Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.

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 noted for its low-pitched and bassy tones, offering a deep and mellow sound profile during key presses. In comparison, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. While the Berry switch leans towards a more bass-heavy sound, the Kiki Red switch provides a higher-pitched, clacky nuance without being excessively loud. Both switches offer distinct auditory feedback, catering to different preferences for typing sound.

In terms of feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch is highlighted for its textured typing experience, featuring a springy feel with a chalk-like texture that may provide added friction for some users. On the other hand, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is described as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press. These qualities indicate a smooth, buttery typing experience with minimal resistance or friction, offering a fluid and responsive key travel that enhances the overall typing feel. The Kiki Red switch provides a variety of tactile sensations that cater to users seeking a refined and effortless typing experience.

Overall, the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Berry switch provides a deeper, bass-heavy sound and a textured typing experience, the Kiki Red switch delivers a higher-pitched, clacky sound and a smooth, creamy typing feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound profile and tactile feedback, users can choose between the Berry switch for a springy, textured typing experience or the Kiki Red switch for a refined, frictionless typing feel. Ultimately, both switches offer solid options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking distinct qualities in their typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, consider the typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and enjoy a springy and textured feel while typing, along with a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, then the Berry switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and value a finely-tuned and smooth typing experience with a creamy, frictionless feel, along with a high-pitched and clacky sound profile, then the Kiki Red switch could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile.

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