Kailh Berry vs. TTC Silent Red

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options to consider are the Kailh Berry and the TTC Silent Red, both of which are linear switches. The Berry switch is best known for its hefty typing experience, characterized by a springy feel and a chalk-like texture. Additionally, it offers a fairly deep sound profile, making it suitable for those who enjoy a textured and low-pitched typing sensation. On the other hand, the Silent Red switch is perfect for individuals seeking a smooth and seamless typing experience, without all the noise. With a muted sound profile, it is ideal for office or shared living spaces. This switch provides a consistent and buttery feel throughout, with a padded bottom-out feature for maximum comfort. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and needs.

By the numbers

Kailh Berry Linear

TTC Silent Red Linear

$6.25 per 10

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Kailh Berry and TTC Silent Red both share the use of polycarbonate in their top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Furthermore, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making it an ideal material for those who plan to use such lighting features. In terms of aesthetics, the clear housing of both switches is most likely made from polycarbonate. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and visual effects when using either the Kailh Berry or TTC Silent Red.

Moving on to the bottom housings, both switches utilize nylon as the material of choice. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. In comparison to stiffer plastics, the relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings, users can expect a more satisfying and impactful sound experience. The qualities brought about by the nylon bottom housing are consistent between the Kailh Berry and TTC Silent Red, making them both suitable for those seeking a deep and full sound profile.

It should be noted that when the top and bottom housings differ in a switch, the unique qualities of each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either the Kailh Berry or TTC Silent Red, the qualities of the bottom housing will be felt, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing will have a more significant impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while there may be some differences in sound and feel between the two switches due to the materials used in their respective top and bottom housings, the overall experience is likely to be similar for users.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, we can observe some similarities and differences. Starting with the actuation force, the Berry switch has an unavailable grams force, making it difficult to make a direct comparison. However, the Silent Red switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, indicating a lighter touch required to trigger a keystroke. This lighter actuation force may provide a smoother and faster typing experience.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the Berry switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which falls within the medium-heavy range. On the other hand, the Silent Red switch has a slightly lower bottom out force of 63.5 grams, also categorized as medium-heavy. In terms of bottoming out, both switches provide a similar weight and resistance, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a more substantial push feel.

Considering weight as a factor, users seeking a lighter switch to type for extended periods may find the Silent Red switch more suitable due to its lower actuation force. This makes it ideal for work or long gaming sessions where fatigue can be a concern. Alternatively, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Berry switch with its slightly higher bottom out force.

In conclusion, while the actuation force of the Berry switch remains unknown, the Silent Red switch offers a lighter touch for keystroke activation. However, both switches share a medium-heavy bottom out force, ensuring a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The Kailh Berry linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Berry has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Silent Red has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Although the difference may seem negligible, it can impact your typing experience. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you are looking for a more responsive switch, the Berry with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and more satisfying keystroke, the Silent Red with its slightly longer travel distance would be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. Both switches offer their own benefits and can produce similar results in terms of functionality.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Kailh Berry linear switch is best described as having a low-pitched and bassy profile. This means that it produces a more mellow and rich sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is known for its muted sound profile. It produces softer and quieter sounds compared to regular or clacky switches, making it ideal for environments where noise reduction is important, such as office or shared living spaces. It is worth noting that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.

In terms of feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch offers a textured typing experience. This means that there is noticeable friction when pressing the keys, giving it a unique tactile sensation. Some users prefer this slight texture, while others may prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch provides a buttery and mild feel. These switches offer a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The switch also has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Considering all the available information, the Kailh Berry linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Berry switch provides a springy and chalk-like type feel, accompanied by a low-pitched and bassy sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent Red switch offers a smooth and consistent feel, with a muted sound profile that is ideal for quiet environments. It is important to consider personal preferences, such as the desired typing experience and noise level, when choosing between these switches. However, it is worth noting that both switches are linear switches, so you can expect similar results in terms of their smooth key travel and absence of tactile bump.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prefer a hefty and springy typing experience with a deep sound profile, the Kailh Berry linear switch is a great choice for you. It offers a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a slightly heavier keypress. Additionally, the textured feel of the Berry switch provides noticeable friction when pressed, which some users may find satisfying.

On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and seamless typing experience without the noise, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is the perfect option. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it provides a consistent feel from top to bottom and a padded bottom-out feel for maximum comfort. The Silent Red switch also has a muted sound profile, making it ideal for office or shared living space use.

Ultimately, the decision between the Berry and Silent Red switch ultimately depends on your personal preference for typing experience, sound, and feel. Consider whether you prioritize a springy and textured typing experience with a deep sound profile, or a smooth and buttery typing experience with a muted sound. Both switches are suitable for different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your needs. In closing, whether you go for the Kailh Berry or the TTC Silent Red, you can expect a high-quality linear switch that enhances your typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Berry Linear

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

TTC Silent Red Linear

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

Learn more