Kailh Berry vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options stand out: the Kailh Berry and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile. While both switches offer unique features and benefits, they cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Kailh Berry is best known for its linear design, providing a smooth typing experience with a springy feel and a chalk-like texture. These switches also produce a deep sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a more subdued auditory experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches offer a pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying resistance with each keystroke. With a tactile force of 70g, typing on these switches becomes an engaging and immersive journey. The sound profile of the WS Heavy Tactile switches is described as familiar and captivating, with Wuque Studios' nylon housings contributing to a "thocky" resonance. 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
70g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Berry and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Berry features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer composition, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder profile.
Both switches share nylon as their choice of material for the bottom housing. This material is commonly used in switch housings and offers similar sound characteristics in both switches. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound, as nylon's softer composition allows for more sound absorption compared to harder plastics. Therefore, users can expect a consistent sound profile in terms of depth and tone from both the Kailh Berry and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile when considering their bottom housing.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch have different impacts on sound and feel. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing are more prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. In this regard, both the Berry and the WS Heavy Tactile, with their nylon bottom housings, will have similar bottom-out experiences. On the other hand, the sound when releasing a key is influenced more by the top housing. Consequently, the polycarbonate top housing of the Berry would result in a sharper and crisper sound upon key release, while the nylon top housing of the WS Heavy Tactile would create a slightly duller sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Berry switch has an actuation force of unavailable grams, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch also has an actuation force of unavailable grams. Therefore, in terms of actuation force, both switches provide a similar result. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Berry switch boasts a heavier 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile switch has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference and typing needs. Individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience might opt for the WS Heavy Tactile switch, which allows for longer periods of comfortable typing. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial and stronger push feel may find the Berry switch more suitable for a satisfying and impactful typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the Berry has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm, compared to the WS Heavy Tactile's 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the range considered to be shorter than the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance. Gamers, in particular, often favor shorter travel distances for their keyboards as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Berry with its slightly longer travel distance would be a suitable choice. However, for those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down keys, the WS Heavy Tactile's shorter travel distance may feel too abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and whether you prioritize quicker response times or a deeper key press experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50.
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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Berry linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy tone. The sound is characterized by a deep and mellow profile, creating a pleasant auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound. This switch produces a sharp and crisp sound, giving each keystroke a vibrant and percussive quality. The resonant nature of the WS Heavy Tactile switch contributes to a clean and sharp sound profile. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience, but the Berry switch focuses on a lower frequency range, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch is more vibrant and bright.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch provides a textured typing experience. This means that there is noticeable friction when pressing the keys, adding a layer of tactile feedback to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch offers an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback. The pronounced tactile bump of this switch is distinctive and can be felt with each keypress. Additionally, the WS Heavy Tactile switch is described as accented, meaning it offers a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. It provides a satisfying level of feedback without sacrificing smoothness. Both switches offer different types of tactile feedback, with the Berry switch being textured and the WS Heavy Tactile switch being sharper and more responsive.
Based on the available information, the Kailh Berry linear switch emphasizes a springy and chalk-like texture for a hefty typing experience. It has a deep and bassy sound profile, creating a mellow tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch boasts a profound and pronounced tactile bump, providing a satisfying resistance and an immersive typing journey. Its sound profile is clacky and resonant, offering a crisp and vibrant auditory feedback. While both switches offer unique qualities, the Kailh Berry linear switch focuses more on a textured feel and low-pitched sound, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch provides a sharper tactile feedback and a higher-pitched sound. These switches will provide similar results in terms of typing experience, but with distinct subjective qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a typing experience that is springy and has a chalk-like texture, then the Berry switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more engaging and immersive journey with each keystroke, accompanied by a satisfying resistance and a captivating sound profile, then the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is the way to go.
In terms of sound, the Berry switch offers a low-pitched and bassy sound, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch provides a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound. This allows for a more personalized auditory experience based on individual preferences.
As for the feel, the Berry switch has a textured feel, which may be favored by users who enjoy a noticeable friction when typing. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers an accented, bouncy, invigorating, sharp, and snappy feel, providing a range of tactile feedback options.
Ultimately, the decision between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch comes down to your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and feel. Consider factors such as the level of resistance, the typing sound you find enjoyable, and the type of tactile feedback that suits your typing style best. By understanding and considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose the switch that will enhance your overall typing experience.