Kailh Berry vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, there are a multitude of options available, each offering a unique typing experience. Two switches that stand out from the crowd are the Kailh Berry and the Wuque Studio WS Onion, both of which are linear switches. The Berry switch is best known for its hefty typing experience, featuring a springy type feel and a chalk-like texture when typing. Its sound profile is fairly deep, categorized as textured, low-pitched, and bassy. On the other hand, the WS Onion boasts a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a buttery smooth keystroke feel that is deeply satisfying. These exquisite switches offer a crisp, responsive feel and a neutral sound profile. Categorized as neutral, buttery, and polished, the WS Onion delivers a truly refined typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Housing materials

The Kailh Berry and the Wuque Studio WS Onion have several similarities in terms of their housing materials. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, making it a practical choice for those who want to incorporate lighting effects into their keyboard.

In terms of their bottom housing, both switches make use of nylon, which is considered a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, the sound produced by the switches is duller and rounder, adding a different acoustic characteristic to the typing experience.

Despite these similarities, it is important to note that the distribution of the housing materials differs between the two switches. The qualities of the housing materials in the Berry switch are separated, with polycarbonate used for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. This means that when pressing down on the Berry switch, the impact and sound are primarily influenced by the nylon bottom housing. Conversely, when releasing a key, the sound will primarily be affected by the polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the WS Onion switch incorporates both polycarbonate and nylon in one housing, distributing the sound qualities throughout the switch.

In summary, the Kailh Berry and the Wuque Studio WS Onion share commonalities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those who desire a more distinct typing experience. Both switches also utilize nylon for the bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. However, the Berry switch separates the housing materials between the top and bottom, while the WS Onion combines them, affecting the typing experience differently depending on the phase of keypress.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, there are a few notable differences. Firstly, the actuation force for both switches is listed as unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare them in this aspect. However, the bottom out force of the Berry switch is recorded as 70 grams, which is considered to be medium-heavy. In contrast, the WS Onion switch has a slightly lower bottom out force of 63.5 grams, also falling into the medium-heavy category.

Considering weight, some users may prefer a lighter switch to enable longer typing sessions without fatigue, which is particularly suitable for work or extended gaming activities. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience might opt for switches with heavier forces, providing a stronger push feel. In terms of weight, it is worth noting that both the actuation force and bottom out force for the Berry switch are unknown, so it is difficult to determine its specific weight characteristics.

Overall, while both switches share a medium-heavy bottom out force, there is insufficient information available to make a direct comparison between their actuation forces. However, based on the mentioned bottom out forces, users can expect a similar level of resistance and tactile experience from both switches.

Travel distance

The Kailh Berry linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch have different travel distances. The Berry has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Onion has a travel distance of 4 mm. The WS Onion has the longer travel distance, making it more suitable for those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the Berry offers a shorter travel distance, which is preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times. Both options have their advantages, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you enjoy a more responsive typing experience, the Berry is the better choice, while those who prefer a more hearty depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the WS Onion. Overall, the travel distance of these switches offers different tactile sensations and can greatly impact the typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Kailh Berry linear switch offers a deep and fairly low-pitched profile. This means that the switches have a bass-heavy and mellow tone, which can provide a more satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch has a neutral sound profile. This means that it doesn't lean towards any extreme, offering a moderate sound suitable for most users. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Kailh Berry linear switches provide a springy and textured experience. The switches have a chalk-like texture when typing, offering noticeable friction. This can be preferred by some users who enjoy a slight texture during their keystrokes. On the contrary, the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches offer a buttery and polished feel. This means that the switches provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The combination of a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing contributes to the polished feeling.

Based on the available information, it is clear that both the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch have their own unique qualities. While the Berry switch offers a deeper sound profile and a textured typing experience, the WS Onion switch provides a neutral sound profile and a buttery, polished feel. If you prefer a low-pitched and springy typing experience, the Berry switch might be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a smoother and more refined keystroke feel, the WS Onion switch would be a great choice. Ultimately, it is important to consider personal preferences and try out different switches to find the best fit for your typing style.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a hefty and springy typing experience with a deep sound profile, the Kailh Berry linear switch is the better choice for you. The Berry switch offers a textured feel, which some users prefer for its noticeable friction. On the other hand, if you value a buttery smooth keystroke feel and a neutral sound profile, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch is the way to go. The WS Onion switch provides a crisp and responsive typing experience, with a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing contributing to its polished and smooth finish. Overall, both switches have their strengths and it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what qualities matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.

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