Kailh Berry vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the KTT Miaowu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Berry and the KTT Miaowu mechanical keyboard switches, two notable linear options stand out. The Kailh Berry switch is praised for its hefty typing experience with a springy feel and chalk-like texture while offering a deep sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu switch boasts enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action thanks to utilizing POK in its stem, distinguishing it from switches with conventional POM stems. While the Berry switch is categorized as textured, low-pitched, and bassy, the Miaowu switch is noted for being bouncy and clacky. Both switches have their unique strengths, making each appealing for different preferences and typing styles. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Kailh Berry and KTT Miaowu both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is great for RGB lighting effects. However, while both switches share this common housing material, any differences in their designs or construction could lead to slight variations in sound and feel.
On the other hand, the Berry and Miaowu differ in their bottom housing material, with the Berry featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Miaowu also utilizing nylon as well. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate. Despite both switches utilizing nylon for their bottom housings, any variations in their specific designs could still impact the overall sound and feel of the switch.
When both top and bottom housings differ in materials, the qualities of each housing material can be felt in different aspects of typing on the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, even though the Berry and Miaowu share similar housing materials, their overall typing experience could still differ based on how these materials interact with the other components of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, it is evident that they have significant differences. The Berry linear switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it lighter in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the Miaowu linear switch requires 43 grams of force, making it slightly heavier. In terms of bottom out force, the Berry switch has a heavier 70 grams force required to bottom out, compared to the lighter 50 grams force of the Miaowu switch. This indicates that the Berry switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, while the Miaowu switch offers a lighter actuation force for a smoother typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, slightly longer than the KTT Miaowu linear switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for quicker response times. However, the Berry switch may provide a slightly more substantial key press feel compared to the Miaowu switch due to its longer distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a slightly longer or shorter travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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 deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu linear switch is known for its clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp and percussive. Depending on personal preference, the Berry switch may suit those who enjoy a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the Miaowu switch may be preferred by those who appreciate a brighter and more expressive sound.
Moving on to feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch is noted for its textured typing experience, offering a springy feel with a chalk-like texture when typing on them. On the contrary, the KTT Miaowu linear switch provides a bouncy sensation, giving a spring-like and elastic feedback when pressed. Those who prefer a switch with noticeable friction and texture may opt for the Berry switch, while individuals looking for a more lively and rebounding feel may enjoy the Miaowu switch.
In conclusion, the Kailh Berry linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Berry switch excels in providing a deep and bass-heavy sound with a textured typing experience, the Miaowu switch stands out with its clacky sound and bouncy feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound profile and typing feel. However, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a chalk-like texture and deep sound profile, the Berry switch with its 70-gram bottom out force may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with enhanced stem stability and a smoother keystroke action, the Miaowu switch with its 50-gram bottom out force and POK stem may suit your preferences better. Consider the sound and feel characteristics described for each switch to determine which aligns best with your typing preferences and needs. Ultimately, the decision rests on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you as you type away on your mechanical keyboard.
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