Kailh Berry vs. Everglide Oreo

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up for comparison are the Kailh Berry and the Everglide Oreo switches. The Berry switches are linear switches that provide a robust typing experience with a springy feel and a chalk-like texture. They offer a deep sound profile categorized as 'Textured', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bassy'. On the other hand, the Oreo switches are tactile switches that offer a delightful treat for your fingertips. They have a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a comfortable cushioned sensation when bottoming out. The Oreo switches provide a medium light tactility, striking a perfect balance between a satisfying keystroke and a comfortable typing experience. The sound profile of the Oreos is subtle and mellow, categorized as 'Accented', 'Chirpy', and 'Stepped'. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and advantages. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Berry and the Everglide Oreo, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This shared material choice results in similar characteristics for both switches. With polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, it creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect comparable sound and lighting effects when using either the Berry or Oreo switches.

However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the two switches take a different approach. The Berry switch incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which brings a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Oreo switch opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, aligning with the characteristics of its top housing. This choice contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, consistent with the overall design philosophy of the switch.

The distinction between the top and bottom housings is significant when considering the overall experience of using these switches. While both switches have similar top housings made of polycarbonate, the Berry switch offers a different bottom housing material in nylon, while the Oreo stick with polycarbonate for both parts. This means that the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch will be influenced by the bottom housing material, while the sound when releasing a key will be impacted by the top housing. This differentiation allows users to have a more nuanced experience depending on their preferences in terms of sound and tactile feedback.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Berry switch has an unavailable actuation force, making it difficult to directly compare to the Oreo switch which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, both switches have bottom out forces, with the Berry switch being heavier at 70 grams and the Oreo switch being lighter at 55 grams.

Considering weight is important for keyboard enthusiasts as it can greatly impact typing comfort and endurance. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may opt for the Oreo switch as it allows for longer typing periods, making it ideal for work or gaming sessions that require extended keyboard use. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial and stronger push feel during typing may lean towards the Berry switch, given its heavier bottom out force.

While the actuation force of the Berry switch is unavailable, it is worth noting that if it aligns with the 45-gram actuation force of the Oreo switch, users can expect similar results in terms of triggering keystrokes. However, the difference lies in the bottom out force, with the Berry switch being heavier compared to the Oreo switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The Kailh Berry linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch have different travel distances, with the Berry having a travel distance of 3.6 mm and the Oreo having a travel distance of 4 mm. The Berry offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Oreo. 4.0 mm is considered the most traditional travel distance, while 3.0 mm is the most shallow. However, with the increasing popularity of shorter travel distances, gamers, in particular, prefer the quicker response times provided by switches like the Berry. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to be too abrupt and may prefer the more substantial depth offered by switches like the Oreo. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences for either responsiveness or a more pronounced tactile experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Kailh Berry linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy sound profile. These switches have a deep and rich tone during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch provides a subtle and mellow sound profile. They have a unique chirpy quality to them, setting them apart from other switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard it is used with and the keycaps. Overall, both switches offer different sound experiences, with the Berry being deeper and the Oreo being more subtle.

In terms of feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch is described as having a textured feel. These switches have noticeable friction when pressed, providing a tactile feedback that some users prefer. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch has an accented and stepped feel. It falls into the category of a medium tactile switch, offering a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. The stepped design of these switches adds an additional sensation of pre-travel and/or post-travel, making the typing experience more nuanced. Again, personal preference plays a significant role in determining the ideal feel for an individual.

To summarize, the Kailh Berry linear switch is best known for its hefty typing experience, springy feel, and chalk-like texture. The sound it produces is deep and bassy. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch is celebrated for its crisp and responsive tactile bump, cushioned sensation when bottoming out, and palatable medium light tactility. These switches offer a mellow sound profile with a unique chirpy quality. While both switches provide distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel, the ultimate choice depends on the user's personal preferences and desired typing experience. It is important to consider factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used to further enhance the overall experience.

Conclusion

In closing, when considering the choice between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a hefty typing experience with a springy feel and a deep sound profile, then the Berry switch would be a suitable option for you. Its medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams provides a satisfying keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a crisp and responsive tactile bump followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out, the Oreo switch is an excellent choice. With a medium-light bottom out force of only 55 grams, it strikes a balance between satisfying tactility and comfortable typing. Additionally, the Oreo switch offers a subtle, mellow sound profile that may appeal to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns with your preferences for both sound and feel, as they both have unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience.

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