Kailh Berry vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Berry linear switch to the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The Berry switch is renowned for its hefty typing experience, springy feel, chalk-like texture, and deep sound profile categorized as 'Textured', 'Low-pitched', 'Bassy'. On the other hand, the Cream Blue switch does not have any specific standout features listed, making it a more neutral option. If you prefer a smoother typing experience with a deeper sound profile, the Berry switch may be the better choice for you. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
The Kailh Berry and Outemu Cream Blue switches both have unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Berry's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, perfect for those who prefer a higher-pitched typing experience. In contrast, the Cream Blue's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to nylon's ability to absorb more sound. While the Berry's top housing is translucent and ideal for use with RGB lighting, the Cream Blue's nylon top housing is a classic choice that provides a more traditional typing feel.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Kailh Berry and Outemu Cream Blue switches use nylon, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. This similarity in bottom housing material means that the typing experience on both switches will have a consistent level of impact and feel, despite their different top housing materials. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, ensuring a consistent and reliable typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Kailh Berry and Outemu Cream Blue switches will ultimately come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. The Berry's combination of a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound and a nylon bottom housing for a fuller sound offers a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Cream Blue's use of nylon for both the top and bottom housing provides a consistent and traditional typing feel. Whether you prefer a crisper and higher-pitched sound or a deeper and fuller sound, both switches offer quality housing materials that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is evident that there are some differences in weight. The Berry linear switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it very light, and a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Cream Blue clicky switch has an actuation force of 50 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Berry, and a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is also medium-heavy. Both switches fall within the medium-heavy range for bottom out force, but the Cream Blue clicky switch requires less force for actuation compared to the Berry linear switch. This means that the Cream Blue switch may be preferred by those who prefer a lighter actuation force for quicker typing speeds, while the Berry switch may be favored by those who prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Cream Blue has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Berry's 3.6 mm. The 4.0mm travel distance for the Cream Blue is more traditional, offering a deeper key press experience, while the 3.6mm travel distance of the Berry provides a shallower and potentially more responsive keystroke. Gamers may prefer the Berry for its faster response times due to the shorter travel distance, while others may find the Cream Blue more satisfying with its greater depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the typing experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25, whereas the Outemu Cream Blue comes in at $3.10.
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
The Kailh Berry linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, offering a deep and mellow tone during key presses. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch's sound qualities are unknown. When it comes to feel, the Berry switch is known for its textured typing experience, providing a springy and chalk-like feel when typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue switch's feel qualities are not provided. Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch with a deep and textured typing experience, the Kailh Berry switch would be a solid choice. The Outemu Cream Blue switch may offer a different sound and feel profile, but without provided information, it is difficult to make a direct comparison. Consider your personal preferences in sound and feel when selecting between these two switches for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a springy typing experience, the Kailh Berry linear switch could be a great choice for you. The Berry switch also offers a deep sound profile with low-pitched and bassy characteristics. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a similar bottom out force but want the added tactile and auditory feedback of a clicky switch, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and whether you prioritize a smooth linear feel or the satisfying click of a clicky switch.
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