Kailh Berry vs. KTT Semi Mute

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are many options to choose from, each offering its own unique features and benefits. Two popular linear switches, the Kailh Berry and the KTT Semi Mute, showcase distinct qualities that may appeal to different users. The Berry switches are known for their hefty typing experience, with a springy feel and chalk-like texture. Additionally, they offer a fairly deep sound profile, categorized as textured, low-pitched, and bassy. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switches, despite their completely silent operation, are perfect for those who prioritize a noise-free environment, especially during late-night typing sessions. These switches feature a linear actuation and advanced dampening technology, providing a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. Categorized as buttery, mild, muted, and neutral, the Semi Mute switches are designed to deliver an undisturbed typing experience. However, these are just generalities, and diving deeper into the specifics will help you make the best decision for your individual needs and preferences.

By the numbers

Kailh Berry Linear

KTT Semi Mute Linear

$6.25 per 10

$3.97

$3.55 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Kailh Berry and the KTT Semi Mute share several similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for users who prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches. Therefore, both the Berry and the Semi Mute can deliver similar results in terms of sound quality and visual customization.

However, the main point of contrast lies in the bottom housing materials used. The Berry incorporates nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing. In contrast, the Semi Mute utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well, emphasizing a sharper and crisper sound. This difference in bottom housing materials will impact the overall sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing, being responsible for the bottom-out sound and feel, will have a significant impact when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the top housing, made of polycarbonate in both switches, will primarily affect the sound when a key is released.

In summary, while both the Kailh Berry and the KTT Semi Mute share the advantages of polycarbonate for their top housing, their bottom housing materials create distinct differences in sound characteristics. The Berry's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound, while the Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing emphasizes sharpness and crispness. Therefore, users can choose between these switches based on their personal preference for sound profiles and typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Berry switch has an actuation force that is not specified, making it difficult to directly compare to the Semi Mute's 43 grams. However, the Berry switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. In contrast, the Semi Mute switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, which falls into the medium range.

Considering the weight of the switches is important for individuals seeking different typing experiences. Those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the Semi Mute, as its lighter actuation force allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This makes it ideal for tasks such as typing at work or engaging in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Berry switch. Its heavier bottom out force provides a stronger push feel, which some find enhances their typing experience.

While the actuation forces of the two switches differ, it is difficult to determine how significant the difference is without the specific measurement for the Berry switch. However, for individuals who desire a similar overall result, choosing the Semi Mute with its lighter actuation force may offer a comparable experience to the Berry switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, it is clear that the Berry has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Semi Mute has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional standards, the Berry falls on the shallower end with its shorter travel distance, while the Semi Mute aligns more closely with the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance. Gamers often prefer switches with shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times, making the Berry a preferred choice for those seeking increased responsiveness. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial key press experience, the slightly longer travel distance of the Semi Mute switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of key depth and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Kailh Berry linear switch has a low-pitched and bassy profile. This means that it produces a deeper and mellow tone during key presses, resembling the richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is known for its muted sound. Despite being completely silent, these switches minimize the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. This makes them perfect for those who value a noise-free environment, especially during late-night typing sessions. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch offers a hefty typing experience with a springy feel. Additionally, there is a chalk-like texture when typing on these switches. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch provides a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. It is described as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The Semi Mute switches offer a mild typing experience, which is gentle and approachable for most users. Overall, the feel of the Berry switches leans towards a textured and springy experience, while the Semi Mute switches provide a mild and buttery typing sensation.

Taking all the available information into account, the Kailh Berry linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The Berry switches are known for their springy feel and chalk-like texture, providing a hefty typing experience. Their sound profile is low-pitched and bassy, giving a deeper and richer tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switches prioritize a noise-free environment, offering completely silent operation. They provide a comfortable and gratifying typing feel with a buttery and mild experience. Despite their differences, both switches offer unique advantages and are suitable for different preferences and requirements. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize a noise-free environment or a distinctive tactile experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prefer a hefty typing experience with a springy feel and a chalk-like texture, the Kailh Berry linear switch is the way to go. These switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a satisfying typing sensation. The sound profile of the Berry switches is low-pitched and bassy, offering a deep and rich tone during key presses.

On the other hand, if you prioritize a noise-free environment and desire undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is the better choice. Despite being completely silent, these switches provide a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. With a medium bottom out force of 58 grams, the Semi Mute switches offer a more moderate typing experience.

In terms of sound, the Berry switches have a low-pitched and bassy profile, while the Semi Mute switches are described as muted and neutral, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.

For the feel, the Berry switches have a textured sensation, which some users prefer for a noticeably friction-filled typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switches provide a buttery and mild typing feel, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience without any noticeable friction.

Ultimately, your choice between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch will depend on your priorities. If you value a hefty typing experience with a textured feel and a deeper sound profile, the Berry switches are a great option. However, if you prioritize a noise-free environment and a comfortable typing feel without any friction, the Semi Mute switches will be more suitable. Consider your preferences and requirements to make the best decision for your personal mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Berry Linear

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

KTT Semi Mute Linear

$3.97

$3.55 per 10

Learn more