Kailh Berry vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Kailh Berry and the Wuque Studio WS Red are two linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Berry switches are known for their hefty typing feel, with a springy and textured sensation. Additionally, they produce a fairly deep sound profile categorized as 'Textured', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bassy'. On the other hand, the WS Red switches feature a bouncy and responsive typing experience, thanks to their 22mm double-stage spring. These switches have a classic material blend that retains a familiar sound signature. With a heavier actuation force, the WS Red switches add a touch of weight to each keystroke, delivering a satisfying and substantial typing feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 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 double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Berry and the Wuque Studio WS Red differ in terms of their housing materials. The Berry utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffness, which generates a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the WS Red features a nylon top housing, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. So, while the Berry's polycarbonate top housing produces a more vibrant sound, the WS Red's nylon top housing offers a deeper typing experience.
Regarding the bottom housing material, both the Berry and the WS Red employ nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition enables it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. As a result, both switches elicit a similar typing experience with their nylon bottom housing.
However, it's worth noting that if a switch utilizes different materials for the top and bottom housings, the properties of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing material will be more evident in the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. This means that the Berry's polycarbonate top housing will provide a distinct sound when releasing a key, while the WS Red's nylon top housing will offer a different acoustic experience.
Overall, while both the Kailh Berry and the Wuque Studio WS Red share nylon as the material for their bottom housing, their top housing materials vary, resulting in different sound profiles. The Berry's polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharper and crisper sound, while the WS Red's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller typing experience. Therefore, depending on the preferred sound profile, users can choose between these switches to suit their personal preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it is important to note that the actuation force for both switches is unavailable. However, the Berry switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy, while the WS Red switch has a slightly lower bottom out force of 67 grams, also in the medium-heavy range.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the WS Red switch may be more suitable as it has a slightly lighter bottom out force. This can be beneficial for those who type for longer periods or engage in extended gaming sessions, as it allows for less strain on the fingers. On the other hand, if a more substantial typing experience is desired with a stronger push feel, the Kailh Berry switch with its slightly heavier bottom out force may be the preferred choice.
Ultimately, while the actuation force remains unknown for both switches, it can be inferred that they may provide similar results, considering their comparable bottom out forces. When selecting between the two switches, weight and personal preference play key roles, with lighter options being favored for extended typing or gaming sessions, and heavier options being chosen for a more impactful typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch have different travel distances. The Berry has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Berry with its shorter travel distance may be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a deeper and more pronounced keypress, the WS Red with its longer travel distance might be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing 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 Red 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
The Kailh Berry linear switch is well-known for its hefty typing experience, offering users a springy feel when typing. Additionally, there is a chalk-like texture present when pressing the keys. As for the sound profile, the Berry switch produces a fairly deep and low-pitched sound, giving it a bass-heavy and mellow tone.
On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch features a 22mm double-stage spring, providing a bouncy and responsive typing experience. While retaining a familiar sound signature due to its classic material blend, the WS Red switch offers a heavier actuation force, adding a touch of weight to each keystroke. This results in a satisfying and substantial typing feel.
As for the sound qualities of the WS Red switch, no specific descriptors are provided. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Berry switch is described as textured or scratchy. This means that there is noticeable friction when pressing the keys. Some users prefer this subtle texture, while others may prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience. Unfortunately, there is no information regarding the feel of the WS Red switch.
In conclusion, both the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Berry switch provides a springy typing experience with a chalk-like texture and a deep, low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Red switch offers a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force and a familiar sound signature. While specific details about the WS Red switch's sound and feel are not provided, it is worth considering that individual preference, the keyboard board, and keycaps used can also affect the overall experience. Overall, both switches offer their own distinct characteristics, allowing users to choose whichever aligns best with their preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a heavier bottom out force and a typing experience that is springy and textured, the Kailh Berry switch would be a great choice for you. Its medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams provides a substantial feel while typing, and the chalk-like texture adds a unique sensation to each keypress. Additionally, the Berry switch offers a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, which can enhance your typing experience further.
On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a touch of weight to each keystroke, the Wuque Studio WS Red switch would be a suitable option. With its double-stage spring and heavier actuation force, this switch delivers a satisfying and substantial feel while typing. Though we don't have specific information about the sound profile of the WS Red switch, its classic material blend ensures a familiar and pleasant auditory experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Berry and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switches comes down to personal preference. If you value a textured typing feel and a low-pitched, bassy sound profile, the Berry switch would be a fantastic choice. However, if you prioritize a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a touch of weight, the WS Red switch would be more suitable for you. Consider your typing style, preferences, and desired typing experience to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard.
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