Kailh Berry vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Berry linear switch to the TTC Venus linear switch, it's evident that both offer unique features and advantages to cater to different preferences. The Kailh Berry switch is praised for its hefty typing experience, springy feel, and chalk-like texture, with a deep sound profile categorized as textured, low-pitched, and bassy. On the other hand, the TTC Venus stands out for its innovative internal design that provides a seamless glide and a captivating "Q-texture" resistance, akin to biting into a chewy mochi or tapioca pearl. Its light actuation and muted sound signature, categorized as buttery, gummy, frictionless, and thocky, promise a smooth and engaging typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences and typing habits; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Berry and the TTC Venus, it is clear that they each offer distinct characteristics. The Berry utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharp, high-pitched sound profile that is clear and resonant. On the other hand, the Venus features a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can cater to different preferences, with the Berry offering a more crisp tone while the Venus delivers a richer, deeper sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the differences between the Berry and the Venus are again evident. The Berry incorporates a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a fuller and deeper sound profile due to its softer and more sound-absorbent nature. In contrast, the Venus utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is clear and resonant. These contrasting characteristics highlight the impact that the choice of housing material can have on the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Kailh Berry and the TTC Venus, there are also similarities to be noted. Both switches feature a polycarbonate component in their housing materials - the Berry with a polycarbonate top housing and the Venus with a polycarbonate bottom housing. This shared material can lead to a similar sharp, higher-pitched sound profile in these specific components. However, the overall sound and feel of each switch will still be influenced by the unique properties of their respective top and bottom housing materials, highlighting the importance of choosing the right housing material to achieve the desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Berry switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience, while its actuation force is unspecified. On the other hand, the Venus switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a medium-light option. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Venus switch, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. In contrast, the Berry switch is better suited for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, one switch is lighter and the other is heavier, catering to different preferences for typing and gaming purposes.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Venus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Venus has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Berry. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for quicker response times, whereas a longer travel distance provides a more satisfying depth when pressing the keys. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prioritize fast and responsive key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Venus has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Venus for $5.09.
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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Berry linear switch is best characterized by its low-pitched and bassy sound profile, offering a deep and mellow tone with each key press. On the other hand, the TTC Venus linear switch provides a more muted and subdued sound, enveloping each keystroke in a softer and quieter auditory embrace. While both switches fall under the low-pitched category, the Berry switch may produce a slightly richer and deeper sound compared to the more neutral and thocky sound of the Venus switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on the user's preference for a louder or more subdued typing experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Kailh Berry linear switch is recognized for its textured typing experience, providing a slightly scratchy sensation when pressed. In contrast, the TTC Venus switch offers a buttery and frictionless typing experience, with a smooth and uniform sensation reminiscent of bottoming out on a gummy bear or a trampoline. Both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Berry switch leaning towards a more tactile and textured feel, while the Venus switch focuses on a seamless and effortless keystroke. Depending on personal preference for a textured or smooth typing experience, users can choose between the Berry or Venus linear switch.
In conclusion, the Kailh Berry and TTC Venus linear switches offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Berry switch provides a springy and chalk-like texture with a deep and bassy sound, while the Venus switch offers a smoother and more frictionless glide with a muted and engaging sound profile. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Berry switch appealing to those who enjoy a more tactile and textured typing experience, and the Venus switch attracting users who prefer a seamless and buttery key press. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, you should consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a heavier typing experience with a chalk-like texture and deep sound profile, the Kailh Berry may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing experience with a smooth, frictionless glide and a unique "matte" sensation, the TTC Venus would be the more suitable option. Both switches offer different advantages in terms of sound and feel, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you are looking for in your mechanical keyboard.
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