Kailh Berry vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can greatly impact your typing experience. Two popular options are the Kailh Berry, a linear switch, and the KTT Matcha, a tactile switch. The Berry switches are well-known for their hefty typing experience and a unique chalk-like texture when typing on them. They also offer a fairly deep sound profile, giving a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Matcha switches are praised for their comfortable and snappy tactility, providing a distinct and clean bottom-out sound. They are often described as stepped, clacky, and feathery, offering a subtle yet satisfying typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Berry and the KTT Matcha, specifically their polycarbonate top housings, share several similarities. Both housings are made of polycarbonate, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound that is especially advantageous when using RGB lighting. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the vibrant illumination of the switches, enhancing their aesthetic appeal. Therefore, both the Berry and Matcha switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound and lighting effects due to their shared polycarbonate top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Berry and Matcha switches differ in their materials. The Berry switch features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the Matcha switch utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which complements its top housing. This choice of material adds to the sharpness, higher pitch, and crispness of the typing sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound profile that complements the overall performance of the switch.
In terms of tactile feedback, the differences in housing materials reveal their impact on the typing experience. When pressing down on the Berry switch, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing come into play, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. The softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a quieter and less pronounced sound when pressing the key down. Conversely, the Matcha switch's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a more distinct and tactile bottom-out experience, with a sharper sound and a more noticeable feedback. On the other hand, the top housing, regardless of the material used, will have more influence on the sound when releasing a key, as it affects the way the keycap and the switch interact.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, it is clear that there are notable differences between the two. The actuation force of the Berry switch is unavailable, while the Matcha switch requires a gentle 40 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. This makes the Matcha switch notably lighter in terms of actuation force.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Berry switch requires a substantial 70 grams of force to fully press and bottom out, giving it a medium-heavy feel. However, the Matcha switch only requires 45 grams of force to bottom out, making it significantly lighter than the Berry switch.
Considering the weight aspect, those seeking a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time may find the Matcha switch more suitable. This would especially benefit individuals who use their keyboard extensively for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, for those who prefer a more sturdy and robust typing feel, the heavier actuation and bottom out force of the Berry switch would provide a more substantial typing experience.
In summary, the Kailh Berry switch offers a heavier actuation and bottom out force, while the KTT Matcha switch provides a lighter typing experience. These differences in force requirements cater to individuals with varying preferences, allowing them to choose the option that best aligns with their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, it is evident that the Berry has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm while the Matcha has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. Generally, a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered to be the most traditional, while 3.0 mm is considered the most shallow. However, in recent times, shorter travel distances have become popular, particularly among gamers who prioritize faster response times. Choosing the switch with a shorter travel distance can result in a more responsive typing or gaming experience. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to be too abrupt and prefer a switch with a longer travel distance for a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for travel distance and desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 known for its low-pitched and bassy qualities. It produces a deep and mellow tone during key presses, creating a typing experience that is rich in sound. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is described as clacky. When pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be characterized as crisp, bright, and percussive. While the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps, these are the subjective qualities that can be expected from each switch.
Moving on to feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch offers a textured typing experience. This means that there is noticeable friction when pressing the keys, providing a tactile feedback that some users prefer. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is described as stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle. This means that the switch has two stages of tactility, allowing users to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel. It is also super responsive, with a light actuation force, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The KTT Matcha switch provides a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, offering a satisfying and comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Kailh Berry linear switch is best known for its springy typing experience and deep sound profile, while the KTT Matcha tactile switch stands out with its comfortable and snappy tactility, as well as its clean bottom-out sound. Though they have different subjective qualities, both switches offer unique experiences that can be preferred by different individuals. If you are looking for a typing experience that is springy with a chalk-like texture and a deep sound, the Kailh Berry linear switch is a great choice. Meanwhile, if you prefer comfortable tactility with a clean bottom-out sound, the KTT Matcha tactile switch would be a suitable option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who prefers a hefty typing experience with a springy feel and a deep sound profile, then the Kailh Berry linear switch would be a great choice for you. The Berry switch has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, giving it a substantial typing experience. It is known for its chalk-like texture when typing on it, providing a unique tactile sensation. Additionally, the Berry switch has a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, which creates a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during key presses.
On the other hand, if you enjoy a comfortable and snappy tactile switch with a clean bottom-out sound, then the KTT Matcha tactile switch would be a perfect fit. With a light bottom out force of 45 grams, the Matcha switch offers a feathery feel that requires little exertion from your fingers, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. It is specifically designed to provide a distinct clean bottom-out sound due to its long pole stem. The Matcha switch also has a stepped feel, providing a mild tactile sensation with noticeable pre-travel and/or post-travel.
Ultimately, the decision between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch depends on your personal preferences. Consider whether you prioritize a heavier typing experience with a deeper sound profile or a lighter, snappier tactile feel with a clean bottom-out sound. Both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so choose based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable to you.
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