Kailh Berry vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are various factors to consider such as typing experience, sound profile, and overall performance. Two popular options in the market are the Kailh Berry and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches. The Kailh Berry switches are known for their linear design, providing a springy and hefty typing experience. Additionally, these switches offer a chalk-like texture when typing and produce a deep sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switches by Wuque strike a delicate balance between tactility and noise reduction, making them an excellent choice for office and work environments. These switches feature ingenious stem railings with small cutouts, minimizing switch sound while still delivering a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return. Unlike traditional silent switches that use silicone dampeners, the WS Silent Tactile switches offer a unique typing experience without the usual padded feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision based on your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Berry and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Berry utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound profile. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound. As nylon is a relatively softer plastic, it absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound profile.
Similarly, the bottom housing materials differ between the two switches. The Berry features a nylon bottom housing, while the WS Silent Tactile also utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Both switches, therefore, benefit from the deeper and fuller sound profile associated with nylon. Its softness allows for increased sound absorption, resulting in a more rounded sound.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housings on the switch's performance, both switches follow a similar principle. The qualities of the bottom housing are felt when the switch is pressed, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. While the materials may differ, the split between top and bottom housing ensures a balanced and nuanced sound experience for both the Kailh Berry and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, it is important to consider their actuation force and bottom out force. Unfortunately, the specific actuation force for both switches is unknown, but it can be assumed that they are similar since it is not mentioned otherwise. As for the bottom out force, the Berry switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, also falling into the medium-heavy category. Both switches provide a substantial typing experience due to their heavier forces, allowing users to feel a satisfying push when typing. However, for those who prefer a lighter switch, which is more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons, the Berry switch may be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on individual preferences for weight and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch have different travel distances. The Berry has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Silent Tactile has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both of these distances fall within the range of shorter travel distances that have become popular in recent years. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you are looking for a more responsive typing experience, the Berry switch may be the better choice for you. However, some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt or lacking in depth. If you prefer a more substantial feeling when typing, the WS Silent Tactile switch with its slightly longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. Despite the slight difference in travel distance, both switches will provide similar results in terms of overall key travel.
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 Silent Tactile comes in at $4.20.
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 best known for its hefty typing experience. It provides a springy type feel and has a chalk-like texture when typing on it. The sound profile of the Berry is fairly deep, characterized by a low-pitched and bassy tone. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch strikes a delicate balance between tactility and noise reduction. It offers a medium level of tactility without compromising on noise reduction, making it a perfect companion for office and work environments. The WS Silent Tactile switch features ingenious stem railings with small cutouts, resulting in a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return while maintaining an impressively silent profile. Unlike most silent switches, it does not use silicone dampeners, providing a typing experience devoid of the usual padded feel. In terms of sound, the WS Silent Tactile switch has a neutral and muted profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. In terms of feel, the Berry switch is textured, providing noticeable friction when pressed. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch is described as accented, offering a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It is invigorating, with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. The Berry switch and the WS Silent Tactile switch differ in their sound and feel, offering distinct typing experiences.
In conclusion, the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch have contrasting qualities. The Berry switch offers a hefty typing experience with a springy feel and chalk-like texture. It produces a deep and bassy sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch provides a delicate balance between tactility and noise reduction. It offers a moderate level of tactility with a neutral and muted sound profile. The WS Silent Tactile switch does not use silicone dampeners, resulting in a typing experience that is devoid of the usual padded feel found in most silent switches. These switches cater to different preferences and environments. If you are looking for a linear switch with a solid and bouncy typing experience and a deep sound profile, the Berry switch is a great choice. Alternatively, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, reduced noise, and an invigorating feel, the WS Silent Tactile switch is an excellent option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a hefty typing experience and deep sound profile, the Kailh Berry linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, it offers a satisfyingly springy feel and has a chalk-like texture when typing. The Berry is known for its low-pitched and bassy sound, which provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch that strikes a delicate balance between tactility and noise reduction, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it offers a medium level of tactility without compromising on noise reduction. Crafted with precision, these switches have ingenious stem railings with cutouts, minimizing switch sound while delivering a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return. The WS Silent Tactile switches are distinguished from conventional silent switches as they forgo the use of silicone dampeners, resulting in a typing experience devoid of the usual padded feel found in most silent switches. These switches have a neutral sound profile, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches.
In terms of feel, the Berry has a textured typing experience with noticeable friction when pressed. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile offers an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force. It falls into the category of accented switches, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. If you prefer a gentler typing experience, the WS Silent Tactile also has a mild option, which offers a more approachable sound and feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch depends on your preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and amount of tactility. Consider the descriptions provided and select the switch that aligns with your desired typing feel and noise level.
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