Kailh Berry vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Berry linear switch to the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it is important to note the differences in typing experience and sound profiles. The Berry switches are known for their springy feel and chalk-like texture, providing a hefty typing experience with a deep sound profile categorized as textured, low-pitched, bassy. On the other hand, the MX Red switches offer a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, combining responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth classified as thocky, low-pitched, textured. Both switches have their unique qualities making them appealing choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. However, let's delve 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
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Berry and the Cherry MX Red switches, one key difference is evident in their top housings. The Berry utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. This is in contrast to the MX Red's nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound with its softer plastic composition. While the Berry's top housing offers a clear and resonant sound ideal for RGB lighting, the MX Red's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a more muted and rounded tone.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Berry and the MX Red employ nylon as their material of choice. The nylon bottom housings in both switches contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softness allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics. While these bottom housings play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch, the differences in the top housings also impact the sound when pressing down or letting go of a key. Ultimately, the split between the qualities of the top and bottom housings adds complexity to the typing experience of each switch.
In summary, the choice of housing material for a mechanical switch can have a significant impact on its sound profile and typing experience. While the polycarbonate top housing of the Kailh Berry and the nylon top housing of the Cherry MX Red offer distinct sonic qualities, both switches share a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a deep and full sound. The differences in these housing materials result in unique typing experiences, with the top housing influencing the sound when pressing or releasing a key, and the bottom housing impacting the overall bottom-out sound and feel.
Weight
The Kailh Berry linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch both offer a smooth typing experience with a linear feel, but they differ in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Berry has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch, while the MX Red has an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the MX Red is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Berry. Actuation force is crucial for quick typing or gaming, as a lighter force allows for faster keystrokes. However, some users may prefer a heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Berry linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Cherry MX Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Cherry MX Red switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Kailh Berry switch. In general, a shorter travel distance can lead to faster response times, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, some may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer switches with a longer travel distance for a more satisfying key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 comparing the sound of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, the Berry switch offers a low-pitched and bassy tone, providing a deep and mellow sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the MX Red switch is known for its thocky sound, producing a rich and satisfying thud or knock when keys are pressed and released. Both switches have a low-pitched sound, but the Berry switch leans more towards a bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the MX Red switch has a deeper and richer sound profile.
In terms of feel, both the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch are described as textured switches, offering a noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer this subtle texture for added tactility, while others may prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience. The typing feel of the Berry switch is described as springy with a chalk-like texture, while the MX Red switch is known for its slightly heftier feel that combines responsiveness with a satisfying tactile feedback.
Overall, when considering the subjective qualities of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, both switches offer a unique typing experience with their own sound profiles and tactile feels. While the Berry switch provides a springy and chalk-like texture with a low-pitched and bassy sound, the MX Red switch offers a slightly heftier feel with a thocky sound profile. Depending on personal preference for typing feel and sound, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Kailh Berry linear switch or the Cherry MX Red linear switch, keep in mind that the Berry switch offers a medium-heavy bottom out force and a springy, chalk-like typing experience with a deep sound profile. On the other hand, the MX Red switch provides a robust typing experience with a slightly heftier feel and thocky sound profile. If you prefer a switch with a heavier bottom out force and a more textured typing feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch may be the better choice for you. If you prioritize a deeper sound profile and a classic Cherry switch experience, the Cherry MX Red linear switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing comfort and sound feedback.
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