Kailh Berry vs. Outemu Yellow Silver

Overview

When comparing two popular linear mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Berry and the Outemu Yellow Silver, it becomes clear that both switches offer unique advantages. The Berry switch is known for its hefty typing experience, with a springy feel and a chalk-like texture, making it a delight for tactile typists. Additionally, it delivers a deep and textured sound profile, giving an added auditory pleasure to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch by Outemu is favored by gamers and typists seeking speediness and responsiveness. Its light actuation force allows for swift keystrokes, while the neutral sound profile ensures a distraction-free environment. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your specific needs.

By the numbers

Kailh Berry Linear

Outemu Yellow Silver Linear

$6.25 per 10

$3.40 per 10

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Housing materials

The Kailh Berry and Outemu Yellow Silver switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate creates a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for achieving a distinct acoustics. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, making it a popular choice for those who desire an aesthetically pleasing keyboard setup. Therefore, in terms of top housing material, both the Berry and Yellow Silver switches offer similar results in terms of sound and visual appeal.

Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Berry and Yellow Silver switches utilize nylon, which brings a different sound profile to the typing experience. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound, creating a slightly duller and rounder acoustics. This can be advantageous for individuals who prefer a quieter typing experience or enjoy a more mellow sound when pressing down on the keys. Consequently, both the Berry and Yellow Silver switches provide similar sound characteristics through their nylon bottom housings.

While the top and bottom housings of the Berry and Yellow Silver switches differ in material, it's important to note that the qualities each housing material brings will be divided between the bottom and top of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, influencing the tactile feedback when keys are pressed. In contrast, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when letting go of a key, enhancing the overall auditory experience. Therefore, while their housing materials may differ, both the Berry and Yellow Silver switches provide similar results in terms of overall sound and haptic feedback.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it is clear that they differ in terms of weight. The Berry switch has an actuation force of unavailable grams, making it impossible to determine its exact heaviness. However, its bottom out force is 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Yellow Silver switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it lighter than the Berry switch. Similarly, its bottom out force is 55 grams, indicating a medium-light weight.

Weight is an important factor to consider, as it affects the typing experience and endurance. Those who prefer a lighter feel may opt for the Yellow Silver switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions, ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Berry switch, with its heavier forces providing a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the desire for either a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force.

Travel distance

The Kailh Berry linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is longer than the Kailh Berry switch. The traditional travel distance for switches is 4.0 mm, while 3.0 mm is considered the shallowest. However, in recent times, shorter travel distances have become increasingly popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Kailh Berry switch with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, some individuals might find short travel distances to feel too abrupt and prefer a deeper typing experience. For those who value a more hearty depth in their keystrokes, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch with its longer travel distance would be a better option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference and the specific typing experience one is looking for.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Kailh Berry linear switch offers a unique typing experience with its hefty and springy feel. Typing on these switches gives a chalk-like texture, adding a tactile feedback that some users may find enjoyable. In terms of sound, the Berry switch provides a deep and bass-heavy tone, creating a rich and mellow sound profile during key presses.

On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch is known for its light actuation force and speediness. This switch is favored by both gamers and typists who prefer a quick and responsive typing experience. The sound profile of the Yellow Silver switch is described as neutral, with a moderate sound profile that suits most intents and purposes.

While the Berry switch offers a textured feel, the information for the Yellow Silver switch does not provide any specific qualities related to its feel. However, it is important to note that the feel of a switch is subjective and varies from person to person. Some users may prefer a textured feel, while others may prefer a smoother typing experience.

In conclusion, the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch differ in their typing experience. The Berry switch offers a springy feel with a chalk-like texture, providing a unique and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch offers a light and speedy feel, with a neutral sound profile suitable for various purposes. To achieve similar results, users can adjust other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.

Conclusion

In closing, when choosing between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it really comes down to personal preference and intended use. If you prefer a heavier typing experience and enjoy a springy feel with a chalk-like texture, the Berry switch would be a good choice for you. Furthermore, if you prefer a low-pitched, bassy sound profile, the Berry switch would also be favorable. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a neutral sound profile, the Yellow Silver switch would be more suitable. This switch is preferred by gamers and typists who prioritize speediness and responsiveness. Additionally, the Yellow Silver switch provides a smoother, friction-free typing experience. Ultimately, consider your desired typing experience, sound profile preference, and intended use to make the best decision between these two switches.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Berry Linear

$6.25 per 10

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Outemu Yellow Silver Linear

$3.40 per 10

Learn more