Kailh Berry vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Berry linear switch to the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, some key differences and similarities emerge. The Berry switch is renowned for its hefty typing experience, springy feel, and chalk-like texture while typing, producing a deep sound profile categorized as textured, low-pitched, and bassy. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown switch does not have any specific standout features but is generally categorized as versatile. Choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Berry and Outemu Crystal Brown both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This makes them ideal for users looking for a more clear and resonant sound experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. However, despite these similarities in the top housing material, the nylon bottom housing of the Berry and Crystal Brown switches offer different sound profiles. Nylon in the Berry switch results in a deeper and fuller sound, while the Crystal Brown's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound.
While both the Berry and Crystal Brown switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing for a similar sound profile, the difference lies in the nylon bottom housing. Nylon in the Berry switch absorbs more sound, resulting in a softer and deeper typing experience, whereas the Crystal Brown's nylon bottom housing creates a rounder sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials can impact the overall sound and feel of the switches, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key. Despite this difference, both switches offer unique typing experiences based on their housing materials.
In conclusion, the Kailh Berry and Outemu Crystal Brown switches showcase the impact of housing materials on sound profiles. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper and crisper sound profile, the nylon bottom housings provide distinct typing experiences. The Berry switch offers a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon bottom housing, whereas the Crystal Brown switch produces a duller and rounder sound. Ultimately, the combination of these housing materials in each switch contributes to the overall tactile and auditory experience for users.
Weight
The Kailh Berry linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch have differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Berry has an actuation force of None grams, while the Crystal Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it lighter. In terms of bottom out force, the Berry requires 70 grams, which is medium-heavy, while the Crystal Brown only requires 55 grams, which is medium-light. This means that the Crystal Brown switch would provide a lighter touch for typing, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Berry switch offers a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Crystal Brown has a slightly longer travel distance than the Berry. Both fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Berry being on the shorter side and the Crystal Brown on the longer side. Gamers may lean towards the Berry for its quicker response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial key press may prefer the Crystal Brown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience you are looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25, whereas the Outemu Crystal Brown 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 favored for its low-pitched and bassy sound profile, which provides a deep and mellow typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch's sound qualities are unknown, making it difficult to compare the two in terms of sound. When it comes to feel, the Berry switch offers a textured typing experience with a chalk-like texture, providing a springy typing feel. However, the feel of the Crystal Brown switch is also unknown, making it challenging to compare the two in terms of feel. Overall, if you're looking for a linear switch with a deep and bassy sound profile and a textured typing feel, the Kailh Berry switch would be an excellent choice. If you're considering the Outemu Crystal Brown switch, it may offer similar results, but the exact sound and feel qualities remain unknown. As always, the subjective experience of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, you should consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a springy and textured typing feel with a deep sound profile, the Berry switch with its 70-gram bottom out force may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams and prioritize a smoother typing experience, the Crystal Brown switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should come down to your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile. Consider trying out both switches to determine which one aligns better with your typing style.
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