Kailh Berry vs. Everglide Lightning Silver V3
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh Berry and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 are two intriguing options to consider. The Berry switch is renowned for its hefty and springy typing experience, accompanied by a chalk-like texture and a deep sound profile. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 stands out for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, offering a silky typing experience with the added bonus of a light diffuser for enhanced RGB illumination. While the Berry switch is categorized as textured, low-pitched, and bassy, the Lightning Silver V3 is classified as clacky, high-pitched, and silky. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Berry and Everglide Lightning Silver V3 both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in their bottom housings. The Berry's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharper and crisper sound profile, in line with its top housing material.
When it comes to the feel and sound of a switch, the housing material plays a crucial role. In switches with different top and bottom housing materials, the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, you will feel the impact of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. This distinction can affect the overall typing experience and sound signature of a keyboard, making the choice of housing material an important consideration for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
While the Kailh Berry and Everglide Lightning Silver V3 both utilize polycarbonate in their top housings for a sharp and resonant sound profile, their differing bottom housing materials provide distinct typing experiences. The Berry's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound, while the Lightning Silver V3's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and crisper sound. These differences in housing materials can impact the overall sound profile and feel of the switches, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, it is evident that they have significant differences. The Berry has an actuation force of None grams, while the Lightning Silver V3 has an actuation force of 48 grams, making it lighter. In terms of bottom out force, the Berry requires 70 grams to bottom out, which is heavier compared to the Lightning Silver V3 that requires 60 grams. This means that the Berry provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, while the Lightning Silver V3 offers a lighter touch, making it ideal for longer typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. However, the Berry switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying depth to the keystrokes for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of response time and feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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 mellow and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, giving off a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard build and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch is recognized for its textured typing experience, offering a springy and chalk-like feel when typing on them. In contrast, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch provides a silky typing experience, with smooth key presses and minimal resistance. While the Berry switch may appeal to those who prefer a bit of friction for tactile feedback, the Lightning Silver V3 switch caters to individuals seeking a seamless and friction-free typing feel.
In conclusion, the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. Choosing between the two will depend on personal preferences regarding sound profiles and typing experiences. Whether you opt for the Berry with its deep and bassy sound along with a textured feel or the Lightning Silver V3 with its clacky, high-pitched sound and silky smooth typing sensation, both switches are sure to provide a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, the decision boils down to individual preferences in sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, consider your personal preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a heavier bottom out force, a springy feel, and a deep sound profile, the Berry switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a silky smooth typing experience, and a clacky, high-pitched sound signature, the Lightning Silver V3 switch could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to whether you prioritize a chalk-like texture and bassy sound (Berry) or a light diffuser for RGB illumination and a crisp, bright sound (Lightning Silver V3). Choose the switch that best fits your typing style and preferences for a truly enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
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