Kailh Berry vs. Jwick Taro

Overview

The Kailh Berry and Jwick Taro are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct typing experiences. The Berry switches are linear and are praised for their hefty yet springy typing experience. They provide a chalk-like texture when typing and produce a fairly deep sound profile characterized as textured, low-pitched, and bassy. On the other hand, the Taro switches are tactile and offer a cozy typing experience with a medium level of tactility. They produce acute and crisp clacks while providing a snappy feel. Categorized as neutral, buttery, and stepped, the Taro switches also feature a comfy subdued color scheme. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Kailh Berry Linear

Jwick Taro Tactile

$6.25 per 10

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials used in the Kailh Berry and the Jwick Taro switches are quite similar. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The nature of polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic adds to the clear and resonant sound produced by these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that feature RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Berry and the Taro benefit aesthetically and acoustically from their polycarbonate top housing.

Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Berry and the Taro switches incorporate nylon. Nylon is considered a classic switch housing material that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, thus creating a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches using this material. Consequently, both the Berry and the Taro switches provide a satisfying experience with their nylon bottom housing in terms of sound output.

While the top and bottom housings differ in material for these switches, it is important to note that their respective qualities affect different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, emphasizing the impact it has on the overall typing experience. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key, enhancing the auditory feedback during typing. Although the specific switch model may dictate the specific qualities each housing material brings, the general principles apply to both the Berry and the Taro switches. Ultimately, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and tactile feedback from these switches due to their shared housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, we find a few similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the specific gram measurement is unavailable for both switches. Despite this, we can assume that they provide similar results in terms of ease of triggering a keystroke, as the information provided does not indicate any significant difference between the two.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the Kailh Berry linear switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which puts it in the medium-heavy range. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a slightly lower bottom out force of 67 grams, also falling into the medium-heavy category. Both switches provide a sturdy and substantial typing experience due to their similar bottom out forces.

Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Kailh Berry linear switch or the Jwick Taro tactile switch, as the weight of the actuation force is unknown for both. A lighter switch can be advantageous for those who engage in long typing sessions or extended gaming periods. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial push feel when typing might lean towards options with heavier forces, such as the Kailh Berry linear switch with its 70 gram bottom out force or the Jwick Taro tactile switch with its 67 gram bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences and desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The Kailh Berry and Jwick Taro switches have slightly different travel distances. The Berry switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Taro switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. Although the difference is minimal, it is worth noting for those who prefer specific travel distances. The Berry switch falls slightly on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a good choice for gamers or individuals who prioritize faster response times. On the other hand, the Taro switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a sense of depth and responsiveness that might be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preferences and whether a shorter or longer travel distance is desired. However, both options offer a similar level of quality and performance, ensuring a satisfying typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound qualities of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, we notice some distinct differences. The Berry switches have a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, offering a deeper and richer tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Taro switches have a neutral sound profile, with a moderate level of sound that is suitable for various uses. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used. While the Berry switches provide a springy feel with a chalk-like texture, the Taro switches offer a cozy typing experience with a medium-level of tactility. The Berry switches are described as having a textured feel, indicating noticeable friction when pressed. In contrast, the Taro switches are referred to as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Additionally, the Taro switches are considered stepped, meaning they have a mild tactile feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Overall, the Kailh Berry linear switches offer a deep and bassy sound with a springy and textured feel, while the Jwick Taro tactile switches provide a neutral sound with a cozy and buttery feel. Both switches offer their own unique typing experiences, and depending on personal preference, one can achieve similar results with either switch.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, a springy and textured typing experience, and a deep sound profile, then the Kailh Berry linear switch is a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a similar medium-heavy bottom out force, a cozy typing experience with snappy tactility, and acute and crisp clacks, then the Jwick Taro tactile switch would be a better fit. When it comes to sound, the Berry offers a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, while the Taro provides a neutral sound profile. In terms of feel, the Berry has a textured experience, while the Taro offers a buttery and potentially stepped feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound, and feel.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Berry Linear

$6.25 per 10

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Jwick Taro Tactile

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more