Kailh Berry vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Berry and the KTT Strawberry are two popular options to consider. The Berry switches are known for their linear design, offering a hefty typing experience with a springy feel and a chalk-like texture when typing. The sound profile of the Berry switches is fairly deep, making them ideal for those who prefer a low-pitched and bassy sound. On the other hand, the Strawberry switches stand out with their attractive pink and clear housings. These switches are loved for their smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. The Strawberry switches are categorized as low-pitched, frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished. While these general pointers may help you start narrowing down your choice, it is important to dive deeper into the specifics of each switch to best decide which one suits your needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Kailh Berry and the KTT Strawberry both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing is especially beneficial if RGB lighting is planned to be used, as polycarbonate is translucent. Therefore, both switches will provide a similar sound profile and visual appeal when it comes to the top housing.
However, it is in the bottom housing where these switches differ. The Berry utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Strawberry opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Berry creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Strawberry contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. As polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, it enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Therefore, the bottom housing of these switches will provide distinct sound characteristics.
When pressing down on either the Berry or the Strawberry, the qualities of the bottom housing will be felt. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, influencing the tactile experience when typing. On the other hand, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Thus, while the top housing may provide similar results in terms of sound profiles and visual effects due to the use of polycarbonate in both switches, the bottom housing will result in different sound experiences between the Kailh Berry and the KTT Strawberry.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, there are both similarities and differences to consider. Starting with the actuation force, the Berry's exact measurement is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare to the Strawberry's 43 grams. However, it can be inferred that the Berry likely has a heavier actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Berry requires 70 grams of force, which is considered medium-heavy, while the Strawberry requires 62 grams, which is slightly lighter at a medium level. Overall, both switches require a moderate amount of force for actuation and bottoming out, but the Berry is heavier in terms of bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Strawberry, as its actuation force is significantly lighter. On the other hand, those who desire a more substantial typing feel may prefer the Berry due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch have different travel distances. The Berry has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Strawberry has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Berry being slightly shorter than the Strawberry. These shorter travel distances are preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times. Choosing the shorter option, such as the Berry, would provide a more responsive typing experience. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a switch with more depth and a slightly longer travel distance, the Strawberry would be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25, whereas the KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91.
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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Berry linear switch has a fairly deep sound profile with a low-pitched and bassy tone. This gives it a more mellow and rich sound during key presses. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch also has a low-pitched sound, which means it offers a bass-heavy and mellow tone as well. Both switches provide similar results in terms of sound, with the Berry leaning slightly towards a deeper tone. It's important to remember that the sound of the switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Kailh Berry linear switch offers a textured typing experience. This means that there is noticeable friction when pressing the keys, which can be preferred by some users who like a tactile feel. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry linear switch provides a frictionless and silky typing experience. It offers an exceptionally smooth and effortless keystroke with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. Additionally, the Strawberry switch is also described as buttery and polished, indicating a seamless and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. These qualities make the Strawberry switch more suited for those who prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Kailh Berry linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch have their own unique qualities. The Berry switch is known for its springy and chalk-like texture, while the Strawberry switch is loved for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. In terms of sound, both switches have a low-pitched tone, but the Berry offers a deeper and bassier profile. When it comes to feel, the Berry switch is textured, providing noticeable friction, while the Strawberry switch is frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience. Depending on personal preferences, both switches can deliver satisfying results, with the Strawberry switch being more geared towards a smoother and friction-free typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, there are a few factors to consider.
If you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience and enjoy a springy type feel with a chalk-like texture, the Berry switch would be a good choice for you. Additionally, if you appreciate a deep sound profile with low-pitched and bassy characteristics, the Berry switch would be a great fit.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and prioritize a smooth and comfortable feel, the Strawberry switch would be more suitable for you. With its attractive pink and clear housings, the Strawberry switch offers a smooth actuation and reliable performance. It also provides a low-pitched sound profile, emphasizing a mellow tone during key presses.
Overall, the decision between the Berry and Strawberry switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound, and feel. Consider what factors are most important to you and choose the switch that aligns with your preferences and needs.
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