Kailh Berry vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Berry and the KTT Mint are two notable options to consider. The Berry switches provide a distinct typing experience with their hefty feel and springy feedback. The texture of these linear switches is reminiscent of chalk and creates a satisfying typing sensation. Additionally, the Berry switches offer a fairly deep sound profile, adding to the overall tactile experience. On the other hand, the Mint switches are known for their smoothness, delivering a satisfyingly poppy thockiness thanks to their long pole stem. With a light and fleeting type feel, the Mint switches offer a different, yet equally enjoyable typing experience. Categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished, they provide a more balanced sound profile. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Berry and the KTT Mint both share similarities in their choice of housing materials. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound, making it ideal for users who prefer a more pronounced audio feedback. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enables the switches to showcase RGB lighting effectively, adding a visually appealing element to the typing experience.
On the other hand, the Berry and Mint differ in their bottom housing material. The Berry incorporates nylon for its bottom housing, while the Mint also utilizes nylon for this component. Nylon is chosen as a classic switch housing material due to its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. This can be particularly appealing to users who prefer a quieter typing experience without compromising the overall sound quality.
When it comes to the overall impact of the housing materials, the Berry and Mint provide a split experience between their top and bottom housings. The bottom housing influences the sound and feel when the key is pressed down, emphasizing the qualities of the chosen material. On the other hand, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when the key is released. Therefore, whether you prefer a more pronounced sound on key presses or a quieter sound during the release, the choice of housing materials in these switches caters to different auditory preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, some differences and similarities become apparent. The actuation force of the Kailh Berry linear switch is currently unavailable, while the KTT Mint linear switch has an actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Kailh Berry linear switch requires a heavier force of 70 grams, classified as medium-heavy. On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switch has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, categorized as medium-light.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer a lighter switch to enhance endurance during prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming sessions, particularly if they bring their keyboard to work or engage in long gaming sessions. For these users, the KTT Mint linear switch with its lighter actuation and bottom out forces may be more suitable.
However, there are also users who favor a stronger, more substantial typing experience and prioritize a stronger push feel when engaging the keys. These users may opt for options with heavier forces, such as the Kailh Berry linear switch with its medium-heavy bottom out force.
Without the knowledge of the exact actuation force of the Kailh Berry linear switch, it is challenging to provide a direct comparison in terms of actuation forces. Nonetheless, based on the available information, it is clear that the KTT Mint linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Kailh Berry linear switch. Therefore, those seeking a lighter typing experience may find the KTT Mint linear switch more suitable, while those desiring a heavier, more pronounced keystroke may lean towards the Kailh Berry linear switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, we can observe that they have different distances. The Berry has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Mint has a travel distance of 4 mm. This indicates that the Mint has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Berry.
In terms of preference, a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered to be the most traditional, providing a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, a travel distance of 3.0 mm is the most shallow, which can be beneficial for gamers who value faster response times. Therefore, if you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the shorter distance of 3.6 mm offered by the Berry switch would be suitable. However, for those who enjoy a deeper key press, the Mint switch with its longer travel distance of 4 mm would be a better choice. It is important to consider personal preferences and typing style when deciding which switch to opt for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25, whereas the KTT Mint comes in at $2.91.
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 best described as having a low-pitched and bassy sound profile. These switches offer a deeper and mellow tone during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switch is also low-pitched but described as neutral. This means that it has a moderate sound profile that suits most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you use it at home or work. Both switches provide a satisfying sound experience, although the Berry switch leans towards a deeper and bass-heavy tone while the Mint switch offers a more moderate and versatile sound.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch has a textured typing experience. This means that there is noticeable friction when pressing the keys, which can be preferred by some users for its tactile feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switch offers a more mild and polished typing experience. It provides a gentle and approachable feel, standing in a safe middle ground between switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Mint switch achieves a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches provide a different feel, with the Berry switch offering a more textured and springier typing experience, while the Mint switch provides a lighter and more polished feel.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Kailh Berry and KTT Mint linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Berry switch provides a deep, bass-heavy sound with a textured typing experience, offering a hefty and springy feel. On the other hand, the Mint switch has a neutral, versatile sound with a lighter and polished typing experience, delivering a satisfyingly smooth feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and it ultimately depends on the user's preference in terms of sound and feel. However, it is important to note that factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps can also have an impact on the overall sound and feel of the switches. Those looking for a similar result in terms of sound can expect a low-pitched tone from both switches, while those seeking a similar feel can find a moderate and approachable typing experience in both switches.
Conclusion
In closing, if you're looking for a linear switch with a hefty typing experience and a chalk-like texture, the Kailh Berry linear switch would be the best choice for you. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, it offers a medium-heavy feel. The Berry is known for its deep sound profile, described as low-pitched and bassy. This switch provides a textured feel, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more lightweight switch, the KTT Mint linear switch would be more suitable for you. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, it offers a medium-light feel. The Mint is known for its satisfyingly smooth typing experience, with a poppy thockiness due to its long pole stem. It has a low-pitched sound profile, similar to the Berry, but with a more neutral overall tone. The Mint offers a mild and polished feel, making it approachable to most users.
Ultimately, your choice between the Kailh Berry and KTT Mint linear switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a heavier and textured typing experience with a deep sound profile, the Berry would be a good fit. However, if you prefer a lighter and smoother switch with a more neutral sound and a polished feel, the Mint would be the better choice. Consider your typing style and preferences to determine which switch will enhance your overall typing experience.
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