Kailh Berry vs. TKC Kiwi

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Berry and the TKC Kiwi offer distinct typing experiences. The Berry switches are linear, providing a hefty and springy feel while typing. The textured surface adds to the tactile experience, and the deep sound profile further enhances the overall typing sensation. On the other hand, the Kiwi switches are tactile, featuring a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press. This provides a satisfyingly snappy typing experience, complemented by the immersive sound profile. Additionally, the Kiwi switches come lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right from the moment you unbox them. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can better decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Kailh Berry and the TKC Kiwi switches have distinct differences that contribute to their overall sound profiles and user experience. Starting with the top housing, the Berry utilizes polycarbonate, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. In contrast, the Kiwi features UHWMPE, a newer material that generates a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks. Both materials have their unique qualities, but while the Berry's polycarbonate offers a translucent aesthetic suitable for RGB lighting, the Kiwi's UHWMPE brings a fresh and modern touch to the switch design.

Moving to the bottom housing, the Berry incorporates nylon, which is considered a classic material for switch housings. The use of nylon adds depth and fullness to the sound profile, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the Kiwi introduces UHWMPE for its bottom housing, expanding the modern material choice to this part as well. The UHWMPE bottom housing contributes to the overall bright sound signature of the Kiwi, bringing resonant clacks to each keystroke.

It's important to note that the top and bottom housing materials play different roles in the overall switch experience. The qualities of the bottom housing, whether nylon or UHWMPE, have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Conversely, the top housing, be it polycarbonate or UHWMPE, influences the sound when releasing a key. While the Berry and Kiwi differ in their housing materials, they both provide unique and pleasing tactile and auditory feedback, allowing users to enjoy a satisfying typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. The actuation force of the Berry switch is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare it with the Kiwi's actuation force of 43 grams. However, both switches can provide a relatively light typing experience compared to heavier options. On the other hand, the Berry switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, slightly heavier than the Kiwi's bottom out force of 67 grams. This suggests that the Berry switch may provide a slightly firmer and more substantial typing experience when pressing all the way down.

Considering weight is important as it can affect typing endurance and preference. Some users may opt for lighter switches like the Kiwi, which enable longer periods of comfortable typing, suitable for work environments or extended gaming sessions. Conversely, others may prefer a stronger push feel for a more pronounced and satisfying typing experience, and in this case, the Berry switch, with its heavier bottom out force, would be a suitable choice.

Overall, while there may be some differences between the actuation and bottom out forces of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, both switches offer a desirable typing experience, albeit with different levels of firmness.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, it is clear that they have different distances. The Berry has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Kiwi has a slightly longer distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, the Kiwi falls into the more standard range, while the Berry is on the shallower side. This may make the Kiwi more suitable for those who prefer a more familiar feel to their keystrokes. However, shorter travel distances have become increasingly popular, particularly among gamers who value faster response times. In this case, the Berry's shorter travel distance may be appealing. It ultimately comes down to personal preference - if you prioritize a more responsive typing experience, the Berry may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper keystroke, the Kiwi's longer travel distance may be more suitable. Both switches offer unique advantages, and the decision ultimately depends on the individual's desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Kailh Berry linear switch provides a hefty typing experience with a springy feel and a chalk-like texture. It has a fairly deep sound profile that is low-pitched and bassy, giving it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch enhances the typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press. It has a satisfyingly snappy sound profile that is also low-pitched, but described as neutral.

When it comes to feel, the Berry switch is textured, meaning it has noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer this subtle texture, while others prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience. On the other hand, the Kiwi switch has a stepped feel, which means it has two stages of tactility. It provides a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, making it an accented switch. Additionally, the Kiwi switch is polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and ensures a sleek typing experience.

In conclusion, the Kailh Berry linear switch provides a springy and textured typing experience with a deep and bassy sound profile. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch offers a snappy and accented feel with a neutral low-pitched sound profile. Both switches have unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience. If you are looking for a linear switch with a deep and bassy sound, the Berry switch would be a good choice. If you prefer a tactile switch with a snappy feel and a neutral sound, the Kiwi switch is a great option. Keep in mind that the overall sound and feel can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.

Conclusion

In closing, if you prefer a linear switch with a hefty typing experience and a chalk-like texture, the Kailh Berry would be a great choice for you. With its medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, it provides a satisfyingly springy feel. Additionally, the Berry offers a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, providing a deep and rich tone during key presses. On the other hand, if you're looking for a tactile switch that enhances your typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, the TKC Kiwi is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, it delivers a snappy feel. The Kiwi also has a low-pitched sound profile, similar to the Berry, but it is described as neutral, making it suitable for various purposes. It is also lightly factory lubed, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience out of the box. Overall, whether you prefer the textured feel of the Berry or the stepped, accented, or polished feel of the Kiwi, both switches offer their own unique qualities for an immersive typing experience.

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