Kailh Berry vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Kailh Berry and the KTT Lightning are both linear mechanical keyboard switches with unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. The Berry switches offer a hefty typing experience, thanks to their springy type feel and chalk-like texture. With a fairly deep sound profile, they are best known for their textured and low-pitched bassy qualities. On the other hand, the Lightning switches are perfect for those seeking speed and responsiveness. Known as "speed" switches, they are specifically designed for situations where every millisecond matters. The Lightning switches provide a slick type feel and a clacky sound profile, offering a high-pitched and chirpy typing experience with subtle yet polished qualities. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Berry and the KTT Lightning switches share many similarities. Both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that require RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and aesthetic results when using either the Berry or Lightning switches.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Berry and Lightning switches utilize nylon as the material. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its relatively softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, regardless of whether you choose the Berry or Lightning switch, you can expect a more satisfying typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound due to the nylon bottom housing.
It is important to note that when a switch has different top and bottom housings, the qualities contributed by each housing material are divided between the two parts. When pressing down on the switch, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced more by the bottom housing. Conversely, when releasing a key, the sound will be primarily influenced by the top housing. Therefore, users can experience a combination of the sharp, high-pitched sound from the polycarbonate top housing and the deeper, fuller sound from the nylon bottom housing on both the Berry and Lightning switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, it is clear that they have significant differences. The Berry switch has an actuation force of unavailable grams, which makes it impossible to determine its exact weight. However, its bottom out force is 70 grams, indicating a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Lightning switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option.
In terms of weight, the Berry switch is heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the Lightning switch. This heaviness might be appealing to individuals who desire a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. It provides a satisfying resistance that some users prefer. However, for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Lightning switch offers a significantly lower actuation force and bottom out force. This lighter weight can be advantageous for longer typing sessions or intense gaming sessions where fatigue can be a concern.
While the exact actuation force of the Berry switch is unknown, it is safe to assume that it falls into a higher weight category compared to the Lightning switch. However, if one seeks similar results in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, the Lightning switch would be a suitable choice due to its lighter weight. Ultimately, the decision between the Berry switch and the Lightning switch will depend on the individual's preference for a heavier or lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Berry has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Lightning has a travel distance of 3 mm. The Berry switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing users with a slightly deeper key press experience. On the other hand, the Lightning switch offers a shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers seeking faster response times. While the differences between the two switches may seem subtle, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Those who enjoy a more responsive feel will appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Lightning switch, while others who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the slightly longer travel distance of the Berry switch. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique characteristics, providing users with options that suit their individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25, whereas the KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41.
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
The Kailh Berry linear switch is best known for its hefty typing experience with a springy type feel and a chalk-like texture. In terms of sound, it has a low-pitched and bassy profile, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning linear switch is considered a "speed" switch, ideal for scenarios where milliseconds matter. It offers a slick type feel and a clacky sound profile. The Lightning switch has a high-pitched, clacky, and chirpy sound, which is sharp, crisp, and percussive. In terms of feel, the Berry switch is described as textured, with noticeable friction when pressed, while the Lightning switch is noted for its subtle resistance and polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience.
Based on the available information, it is evident that the subjective qualities of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch differ in terms of sound and feel. The Berry switch provides a more low-pitched and bassy sound, offering a deeper and mellow tone, while the Lightning switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound, which is sharp and crisp. In terms of feel, the Berry switch has a textured sensation with noticeable friction, whereas the Lightning switch offers a subtle resistance and polished finish for a smoother typing experience. It is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, and depending on personal preference and usage requirements, one may choose the switch that best suits their needs. Keep in mind that individual results may vary, but choosing either switch should provide similar results in terms of subjective qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a chalk-like texture, the Kailh Berry linear switch would be a good choice. The Berry switches have a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a springy feel while typing. Additionally, if you prefer a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, the Berry switches deliver a deeper and richer sound during key presses. On the other hand, if you're seeking a lighter typing feel and need switches that can enhance your speed, the KTT Lightning linear switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 50 grams, the Lightning switches offer a slick type feel, perfect for situations where milliseconds can make a difference. The Lightning switches also have a clacky sound profile, which is crisp, bright, and percussive. So, whether you prioritize a heavier typing experience with a deep sound or a lighter typing feel with a clacky sound, there is a switch option for you.
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