Kailh Berry vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Berry linear switch to the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, we see distinct differences in their characteristics. The Berry switch offers a hefty typing experience with a springy feel and chalk-like texture, creating a deep sound profile categorized as 'Textured', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bassy'. On the other hand, the Milk Blue switch lacks specific standout features but provides a clicky typing feedback. If you prefer a smooth and consistent typing experience, 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
N/A
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
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
Both the Kailh Berry and the Outemu Milk Blue switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, clear polycarbonate housings are more likely to be used in switches that feature RGB lighting due to their translucency. However, while both switches share this common material in their top housing, the difference in their bottom housing materials sets them apart.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Kailh Berry and the Outemu Milk Blue switches utilize nylon, a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. The nylon bottom housing contributes to the overall sound and feel of the switch, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Despite their similar bottom housing materials, the distinct qualities brought by polycarbonate in the top housing differentiate the two switches in terms of sound and aesthetics.
While both switches offer similar characteristics in their bottom housings with nylon, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Kailh Berry and the Outemu Milk Blue switches showcase their differences in sound profile. The split qualities of the housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch highlight how each material impacts the sound and feel of the switch differently. Therefore, while both switches may offer comparable results in terms of deep and full sound profiles due to their nylon bottom housings, the distinction lies in the sharper and crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it is clear that they offer different weight experiences. The Kailh Berry has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, but with no specified actuation force. In contrast, the Outemu Milk Blue has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Outemu Milk Blue, while those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Kailh Berry. Both switches offer unique qualities for different preferences, allowing users to choose based on their typing needs and preferences.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Berry switch is the shorter option, ideal for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Milk Blue switch offers a longer travel distance, providing a more substantial keypress feel that some may find more satisfying. Both switches fall within the spectrum of traditional travel distances, with the Milk Blue switch being slightly longer than the Berry switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25, whereas the Outemu Milk 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 offers a unique typing experience with its springy feel and chalk-like texture. The sound produced by the Berry switch is characterized as low-pitched and bassy, providing a deep and mellow tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch does not have any specific subjective qualities mentioned in the provided information. Since the feel of the Berry switch is described as textured, it may provide a noticeable friction when pressed, which can be preferred by some users for a tactile feedback.
Overall, the Kailh Berry linear switch seems to offer a more defined typing experience with a distinctive sound profile compared to the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch. While the sound and feel may vary depending on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, choosing the Berry switch may result in a satisfying typing experience with its unique springy feel and deep, low-pitched sound. If the Milk Blue switch is similar in sound and feel to the Berry switch, opting for either one should provide a comparable experience for newcomers looking for a tactile and audible feedback while typing.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Kailh Berry linear switch or the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a keyboard switch. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a springy feel and deep sound profile, then the Berry switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky switch with a lighter typing force, the Milk Blue switch may be more suitable. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your individual typing style and preferences.