Kailh Berry vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Berry and the Outemu Dustproof Purple offer two distinct options to choose from. The Kailh Berry is a linear switch known for its hefty typing experience, springy feel, and deep sound profile categorized as 'Textured', 'Low-pitched', 'Bassy'. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple is a clicky switch with no specific standout features. While the Berry switch may appeal to those seeking a more tactile and audible typing experience, the Dustproof Purple could be a reliable option for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
65g
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 Dustproof Purple switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. While both switches share this top housing material, the differences may come in the design and construction of the housing itself, potentially affecting the overall sound and feel of the switch.
On the other hand, the Kailh Berry and Outemu Dustproof Purple switches differ in their bottom housing material. The Berry features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Dustproof Purple also uses a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound qualities to the Berry switch. Despite this similarity in material, the design and construction of the bottom housing may vary between the two switches, potentially impacting the typing experience.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the Kailh Berry and Outemu Dustproof Purple switches allows for a unique typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housings means that each material contributes distinct qualities to the overall sound and feel of the switch. While the use of polycarbonate in the top housing provides a sharper sound profile, the nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. Understanding how each material influences the switch can help users make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, it is clear that the Berry is the lighter option with no specified actuation force while the Dustproof Purple requires 55 grams for actuation. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Berry at 70 grams and the Dustproof Purple at 65 grams. The Berry provides a medium-heavy typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, while the Dustproof Purple offers a slightly lighter actuation force but still falls within the medium-heavy range for bottoming out. Depending on personal preference, some may favor the lighter actuation force of the Dustproof Purple for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the stronger push feel of the Berry for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a balanced combination of actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for typing or gaming purposes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, it is evident that the Berry has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Dustproof Purple's 4 mm. This means that the Berry provides a slightly faster response time, making it ideal for gamers who value quick reactions. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple offers a bit more depth in its travel distance, which can be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, but the slight variation can make a difference depending on personal preference. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to whether you prioritize speed or depth in your typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25, whereas the Outemu Dustproof Purple 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 known for its springy and chalk-like typing experience, accompanied by a fairly deep sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch does not have specific subjective qualities mentioned. In terms of sound, the Berry offers a low-pitched and bassy tone, providing a bass-heavy and mellow sound during key presses. The sound profile of the Dustproof Purple is unknown, but it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. When it comes to feel, the Berry switch is textured, giving users a noticeable friction when typing. Unfortunately, the feel of the Dustproof Purple switch is unspecified. Overall, while the Berry switch offers a distinct typing experience with its specific sound and feel characteristics, the Dustproof Purple switch remains a bit of a mystery in terms of subjective qualities. However, based on the information provided, it is likely that users will achieve similar results in sound and feel if they opt for the Berry switch due to its defined characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, consider the typing experience and sound profile you prefer. If you enjoy a springy feel with a chalk-like texture and a deep sound profile, the Berry switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a clicky sound and a clicky feel, the Dustproof Purple switch could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.