Kailh Berry vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there is a wide range of options to choose from that can greatly impact your typing experience. Two popular switches that stand out are the Kailh Berry and the Gazzew U4. The Berry switches provide a unique linear typing feel that some may find satisfyingly springy, with a chalk-like texture. Additionally, they offer a fairly deep sound profile, categorized as textured, low-pitched, and bassy. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switches offer a silent tactile experience, featuring a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump while typing. They also provide a surprisingly plush, felt-like sensation when bottoming out, and their sound profile is whisper quiet, categorized as muted, low-pitched, and sharp. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics and appeal, making them suitable for different preferences and needs. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision on which switch is right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Berry and the Gazzew U4, one notable difference is in the top housing. The Berry features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to its translucency, polycarbonate is also ideal for those who plan to use RGB lighting. On the other hand, the U4 utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic." This blend delivers a rich and deep sound profile, thanks to its softness. So, while the Berry offers a more clear and resonant sound with its polycarbonate top housing, the U4 presents a deeper and fuller sound with its unique Gazzew blend.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Berry and the U4 have different materials. The Berry incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which is a classic material for switches. Typing on switches with a nylon housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is relatively softer and absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the U4 adopts Gazzew's own proprietary blend for the bottom housing. This blend, known as "boba plastic," follows the same principle as the top housing, delivering a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. So, both switches provide a similar effect when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel, offering a more cushioned experience.
While the top and bottom housings of the Berry and the U4 differ, their impact on the overall sound profile of the switch is worth mentioning. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is fully pressed down. So, with the Berry's nylon bottom housing or the U4's Gazzew blend bottom housing, users will experience a deeper and fuller sound upon keystrokes. However, the top housing has a more pronounced effect when you let go of a key, influencing the sound during key release. In the case of the Berry's polycarbonate top housing or the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, users can expect either a sharper and crisper sound or a rich and deep sound when keys are released. Thus, while their individual housing materials may differ, both switches offer a comprehensive sound experience throughout the keystroke process.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force of the Berry switch is currently unavailable, making it difficult to compare directly with the U4's actuation force of 43 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Berry switch has a heavier force of 70 grams, while the U4 has a slightly lighter force of 62 grams.
Considering weight as an important factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the U4 switch, as its actuation force is lower. This lighter actuation force allows for longer periods of typing without strain, making it suitable for work or long gaming sessions. Alternatively, for those who seek a more substantial and stronger push feel, the Berry switch may be the preferred choice. With its heavier bottom out force, the Berry switch offers a more robust typing experience, where each keystroke carries a more noticeable resistance.
While the actuation force of the Berry switch remains unknown, it is likely that it falls within a similar range to the U4 switch if similar results are desired. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel. Both switches offer a consistent and comfortable typing experience as a result of their equal travel distances. Whether you choose the Kailh Berry linear switch or the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance traveled when using them.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25, whereas the Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50.
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 known for its hefty typing experience, providing a springy feel and a chalk-like texture when typing on them. The sound profile of the Berry switches is described as deep and bassy, offering a richer and mellow tone during key presses.
On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is praised for its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump when typing. It provides an unexpectedly plush and felt-like bottom-out sensation, offering a unique typing experience. In terms of sound, the U4 switches are known for being whisper quiet, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches.
Based on the information provided, the Berry switch has a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, while the U4 switch has a muted and low-pitched sound. In terms of feel, the Berry switch has a textured feel, while the U4 switch has a sharp and intense tactile bump.
In conclusion, the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Berry switch provides a springy and textured typing experience with a deep and bassy sound, while the U4 switch offers a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump with a muted and quiet sound. Depending on personal preferences, either switch can deliver a unique and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a heavier typing experience and a springy feel with a chalk-like texture, the Kailh Berry linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams and a fairly deep sound profile, characterized as low-pitched and bassy. On the other hand, if you enjoy a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump and a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch would be an ideal option. With a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, these switches provide a whisper-quiet sound profile described as muted and low-pitched. It's important to note that the Berry switch is textured, while the U4 switch offers a sharp tactile feedback. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference for typing feel and sound.
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