Kailh Berry vs. Outemu Peach
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Outemu Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Kailh Berry and the Outemu Peach, both of which are linear switches. The Berry switches are praised for their hefty typing experience, offering a springy feel and a chalk-like texture when typing. In terms of sound profile, they produce a fairly deep tone, characterized as textured, low-pitched, and bassy. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach switches are known for being lightweight and silenced, making them ideal for those who prefer a feathery light typing experience. Their sound profile is more neutral, mild, muted, subtle, and polished. While these general descriptions provide an initial understanding of each switch's characteristics, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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 housing materials of the Kailh Berry and the Outemu Outemu Peach switches differ slightly, with the Berry utilizing a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Peach switches feature a nylon top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Berry switch creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer nature. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Peach switch produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound profile.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Berry switch offers a translucent quality, making it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Peach switch does not provide the same level of translucency, which may limit its compatibility with RGB lighting setups. However, both housing materials offer their own unique characteristics and can contribute to an enjoyable typing or gaming experience.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Berry and Peach switches share the same nylon material. This material's softer nature allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on either switch. By absorbing more sound than harder plastics, the nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound when pressing down on the keys of both the Berry and Peach switches.
In summary, the Kailh Berry and the Outemu Outemu Peach switches differ in their top housing materials, with the Berry utilizing polycarbonate, leading to a sharper and crisper sound profile, and the Peach featuring nylon, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. However, both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, contributing to a similar typing experience with a duller and rounder sound. Depending on one's preferences for sound and RGB lighting compatibility, one switch may be favored over the other.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The actuation force of the Berry switch is not available, while the Peach switch has an actuation force of 40 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Berry switch is heavier with a force of 70 grams, which is medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Peach switch has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams.
Considerations for weight are important when choosing a switch, as it can impact typing comfort and endurance. Some individuals prefer a lighter actuation force, as it allows for longer typing sessions without muscle fatigue, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, those who desire a more substantial typing experience may prefer a switch with a heavier force, providing a stronger push feel during keystrokes.
While the actuation force for the Berry switch is not known, it is evident that the Peach switch has a lighter actuation force, making it a potential choice for those seeking a light and responsive keystroke. The bottom out force of the Peach switch is also lighter compared to the Berry switch, further enhancing the typing experience for individuals who prefer a lighter touch.
In summary, the actuation and bottom out forces of the Kailh Berry and Outemu Peach linear switches differ. The Berry switch has an unknown actuation force and a heavier bottom out force, while the Peach switch has a lighter actuation force and a lighter bottom out force. The choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference, whether one desires a lighter or heavier touch during typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Outemu Outemu Peach linear switch, it is clear that there is a notable difference. The Berry has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Peach has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances which have become more prevalent in recent times. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Peach switch with its shorter travel distance may be the better option for you. However, for those who prefer a deeper keypress feel, the Berry switch with its slightly longer travel distance might be the more satisfying choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming 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 Peach comes in at $3.40.
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 best known for its hefty typing experience. When typing on these switches, users can expect a springy feel and a chalk-like texture. In terms of sound, the Berry switch has a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, featuring a deeper and richer tone during key presses.
On the other hand, the Outemu Peach linear switch is unique in that it is lightweight and also silenced. This switch is perfect for those who prefer a feathery light typing experience. In terms of sound, the Outemu Peach switch has a neutral and muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches.
The Kailh Berry switch offers a textured feel with noticeable friction when pressed, which may be preferred by some users. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach switch provides a mild and subtle typing experience, offering a gentle resistance without being too feather light. Additionally, the Outemu Peach switch has a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and smooth typing experience.
Overall, while the Berry and Peach switches differ in their subjective qualities of sound and feel, both options provide unique experiences for linear keyboard switch enthusiasts. The Berry switch offers a springy feel with a chalk-like texture and a low-pitched, bassy sound profile. On the other hand, the Peach switch is lightweight, silenced, and provides a mild, subtle feel with a polished finish and a neutral, muted sound profile. Depending on individual preferences, both switches can deliver enjoyable typing experiences.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a springy feel and a deep sound profile, the Kailh Berry linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches feature a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a hefty typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a feathery light typing experience with a silenced sound profile, the Outemu Peach linear switch would be the better option. With a bottom out force of 50 grams, these switches are very lightweight and perfect for linear lovers seeking a lighter touch. Additionally, the Outemu Peach switches are silenced, making them quieter compared to regular switches. Consider your preferences for typing force, sound, and feel when deciding between these two switches to ensure the best possible keyboard experience for you. Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Berry and the Outemu Peach depends on your personal preferences and desired typing experience.