Kailh Berry vs. Gazzew LT
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Gazzew LT switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Berry and the Gazzew LT. The Kailh Berry, a linear switch, offers a typing experience that is best characterized by its hefty feel and springy sensation. Additionally, the textured surface adds a unique tactile feedback, making typing on this switch a pleasure. The sound profile of the Berry switch is fairly deep, providing a satisfying low-pitched tone as you type away. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT, another linear switch, stands out with its enticing lilac hue. Typing on the LT switches produces an auditory symphony of deep, resonant "thockiness", resulting in a satisfying sound experience. Furthermore, the seamless glide provided by the LT switch enhances the overall typing feel. Categorized as "bassy", "thocky", and "low-pitched", the LT switch has its own distinctive qualities. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Berry and the Gazzew LT differ in terms of their composition and sound profile. The Berry's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound due to its relatively stiffer nature. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the LT's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. This softer material produces a more mellow sound compared to the Berry's polycarbonate top housing.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Berry utilizes a nylon material. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. Its relatively softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the LT's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, like the top housing, delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. This means that both the Berry's nylon bottom housing and the LT's Gazzew blend bottom housing contribute to creating a satisfying typing experience with their sound-absorbing properties.
Although the specific materials used in the top and bottom housings differ between the Kailh Berry and the Gazzew LT, both switches aim to deliver a high-quality sound profile. While the Berry's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, the LT's Gazzew blend top housing offers a rich and deep sound. Similarly, both the Berry's nylon bottom housing and the LT's Gazzew blend bottom housing contribute to a fuller sound experience. Therefore, users can achieve similar results in terms of sound quality, albeit with slight variations, when using either switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. Unfortunately, the actuation force for both switches is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare them in this aspect. However, both switches have a similar medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Berry having a slightly higher value of 70 grams compared to the LT's 65 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Berry switch may be more suitable as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing. This lighter actuation force can be beneficial for tasks such as office work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, some individuals enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, the heavier bottom out force of the Berry switch might provide the desired tactile feedback.
While the exact actuation force for both switches remains unknown, it can be presumed that they would yield similar results given their similar medium-heavy bottom out forces. Therefore, users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of the effort required to press the keys down fully. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience, with the Berry switch leaning towards a potentially lighter feel and the LT switch offering a slightly heavier touch.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch have different travel distances. The Berry has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the LT has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become increasingly popular. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as they allow for faster response times. Therefore, if you prioritize quick responsiveness, the Berry switch with its slightly longer travel distance may be a better choice for you. However, some individuals find short travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer switches with greater depth. In such cases, the Gazzew LT switch, with its slightly shorter travel distance, may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired level of key press feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25, whereas the Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50.
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. When typing on these switches, users can expect a springy feel and a chalk-like texture. In terms of sound, the Berry switches have a fairly deep sound profile that can be described as low-pitched and bassy. This results in a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during key presses.
On the other hand, the Gazzew LT linear switch stands out with its enticing lilac hue and offers an auditory symphony of deep, resonant thockiness when typing. The LT switches provide a seamless glide with every keystroke. In terms of sound, the LT switches are also described as bassy and thocky, offering a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released. Similar to the Berry switches, the LT switches also have a low-pitched sound profile, contributing to a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
When it comes to the feel, the Berry switches are described as having a textured or scratchy feel. This means that there is noticeable friction when pressing the keys, which can be preferred by some users who enjoy a tactile typing experience. As for the LT switches, the available information does not provide any specific description of their feel.
In conclusion, both the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Berry switches provide a springy and chalk-like typing experience with a fairly deep sound profile, the LT switches offer a seamless glide and a deep, resonant thockiness when typing. Both switches have a low-pitched and bassy sound profile. However, it is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps. Ultimately, if you are looking for a switch with similar qualities to either the Berry or LT switches, you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a hefty typing experience with a springy feel and a deep sound profile, the Kailh Berry linear switch would be the choice for you. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, these switches offer a medium-heavy feel that might appeal to those who appreciate a bit more resistance. The Berry switches also have a chalk-like texture when typing on them, which can add to the tactile experience. In terms of sound, the Berry switches are low-pitched and bassy, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during key presses.
On the other hand, if you are looking for an auditory symphony of deep, resonant thockiness and a seamless glide with every keystroke, the Gazzew LT linear switch would be the better option. The LT switches feature a bottom out force of 65 grams, offering a similar medium-heavy feel to the Berry switches. However, the LT switches are best known for their enticing lilac hue and the satisfying thocky sound they produce. With a low-pitched, bassy sound profile, the LT switches provide a deep and rich tone during key presses. While there is no specific description of the LT's feel, they are known to provide a smooth typing experience without any noticeable texture or friction.
Ultimately, your choice between the Kailh Berry and Gazzew LT linear switches will depend on your personal preferences. If you prefer a springy feel with textured switches and a deep sound profile, the Berry switches might be more suitable. On the other hand, if you prioritize a seamless glide, an auditory symphony of thockiness, and a lilac hue, the LT switches would be the better option. Consider your desired typing experience and sound profile to make an informed decision between these two mechanical keyboard switches.
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