Kailh Berry vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up are the Kailh Berry and the TTC Silent Frozen, both of which are linear switches. The Berry switches are best known for their hefty and springy typing experience, combined with a chalk-like texture that provides a satisfying feel. This switch also produces a fairly deep sound profile, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more textured and low-pitched typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen switches are characterized by their extremely quiet sound profile. These switches offer a super smooth and pillowy typing experience that feels remarkably creamy and buttery. The sound produced by the Silent Frozen switch is described as thocky, low-pitched, muted, feathery, subtle, and polished. While these general descriptions give you an idea of each switch's standout features, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Berry and TTC Silent Frozen switches have similar housing materials in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, a relatively stiffer plastic, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material also allows for a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows for better light diffusion and enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the switch.
However, where the switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Berry switch incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which gives a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, the Berry switch produces a duller and rounder sound during key presses, offering a quieter and more tactile typing experience.
On the other hand, the Silent Frozen switch features a polycarbonate bottom housing, similar to its top housing. This means that the benefits of the stiffer polycarbonate material are distributed to both the top and bottom of the switch. As a result, the sound produced by the Silent Frozen switch is expected to be sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper compared to the Berry switch. Additionally, the polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to the overall visual appeal of the switch, especially when paired with RGB lighting.
In summary, while both the Kailh Berry and TTC Silent Frozen switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, they differ in their bottom housing materials. The Berry utilizes a softer nylon material for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen incorporates polycarbonate for its bottom housing, providing a sharper and crisper sound. Overall, both switches offer unique sound profiles and visual aesthetics, catering to different preferences for typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch, there are notable differences. The actuation force of the Berry switch is unavailable, making it difficult to provide a direct comparison. However, its bottom out force is 70 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy range. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen switch has an actuation force of 39 grams, indicating a light touch is needed to trigger a keystroke. Its bottom out force is 43 grams, making it lighter than the Berry switch.
Considering the weight aspect, some users may prefer a lighter switch as it enables them to type for longer durations, especially for work-related tasks or extended gaming sessions. In such cases, the Silent Frozen switch with its lower actuation and bottom out forces may be a suitable choice. Conversely, there are those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. These individuals may opt for switches with heavier forces, such as the Berry switch with its medium-heavy bottom out force.
Overall, while the actuation force of the Kailh Berry linear switch remains unknown, it can be inferred that it may be heavier or on par with the Silent Frozen switch due to its medium-heavy bottom out force. However, those seeking a lighter typing experience may find the lower actuation and bottom out forces of the Silent Frozen switch to be more appealing.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which falls on the shorter end of the spectrum. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. While both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, they still provide a responsive typing experience. Gamers in particular may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Berry switch as it allows for faster response times. However, for those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the Silent Frozen switch with its slightly longer travel distance might be more suitable. Overall, both switches offer a distinct feel and it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
The Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25 per 10 switches.
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 providing a hefty typing experience with a springy type feel. When typing on the Berry switches, there is a chalk-like texture that adds to the tactile feedback. In terms of sound, the Berry switches have a fairly deep sound profile that is described as low-pitched and bassy. This means that the sound produced during key presses will have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones.
On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch is characterized by its extremely quiet sound profile. These switches are known to be super smooth, providing a pillowy type feel when typing. While the sound profile is not specifically mentioned, the Silent Frozen switches are described as thocky, low-pitched, and muted. A thocky switch produces a deep and satisfying sound, while the low-pitch and muted characteristics indicate a bass-heavy, mellow, and quiet sound profile. The Silent Frozen switches are likely to provide a sound experience that is deep, rich, and satisfying.
Comparing the two switches, the Berry linear switch offers a springier typing experience with a chalk-like texture, while the Silent Frozen linear switch provides an extremely quiet and pillowy typing experience. In terms of sound, both switches are low-pitched and offer a deep and rich sound profile. The Berry switch has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the Silent Frozen switch is described as thocky and muted, suggesting a deep, rich, and satisfying sound with minimized noise.
In conclusion, both the Kailh Berry linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch offer unique subjective qualities. The choice between them depends on personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile. If you enjoy a more springy and textured typing experience, the Berry switch would be a suitable option, offering a low-pitched and bassy sound profile. On the other hand, if you prioritize an extremely quiet and smooth typing experience, the Silent Frozen switch would be a great choice, characterized by a thocky, low-pitched, and muted sound profile. It's important to note that the ultimate typing and sound experience will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To conclude, if you are looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a springy feel and deep sound profile, the Kailh Berry linear switch would be a great option for you. The Berry switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams and is best known for its chalk-like texture when typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing experience with an extremely quiet sound profile and super smooth feel, the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch would be a better choice. With a bottom out force of 43 grams, the Silent Frozen switch is characterized by its pillowy type feel and thocky sound profile. Consider your preferred typing experience and sound level when deciding between these two switches.
Mentioned in this article
