Kailh Berry vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Berry linear switch to the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, we see distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Berry switch offers a hefty typing experience with a springy feel and chalk-like texture, resulting in a deep sound profile categorized as textured, low-pitched, and bassy. On the other hand, Gateron's Zero Degree 0° switch introduces silent typing with its self-padding design and dual-rail structure, providing exceptional smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise. While the Berry switch focuses on a tactile typing experience, the Zero Degree 0° prioritizes silent operation. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Berry and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches designed to utilize RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, both switches will exhibit similar characteristics due to their shared polycarbonate top housing material.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Kailh Berry utilizes nylon while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° also uses nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that despite having different top housings, both switches will produce a similar typing experience in terms of the sound and feel generated by their nylon bottom housings.
Overall, the choice between the Kailh Berry and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° will come down to personal preference in terms of the specific sound profile desired. While both switches share the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound profile, they differ in their bottom housing material with nylon providing a deeper and fuller sound experience. Ultimately, users may find that the Kailh Berry offers a crisper sound when letting go of a key, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° may deliver a more impactful bottom-out sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The actuation force of the Berry switch is listed as None grams, while the Zero Degree 0° switch has an actuation force of 45 grams. This indicates that the Zero Degree 0° switch is lighter in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke. As for bottom out force, the Berry switch has a force of 70 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the bottom out force of the Zero Degree 0° switch is listed as None grams, making it unclear which switch requires more force to press all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Zero Degree 0° switch may be more appealing, while individuals looking for a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Berry switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting their travel distance, it is evident that both switches offer a consistent and predictable typing experience with the same amount of key travel. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and actuation point regardless of which switch they choose. In terms of travel distance, neither switch is shorter or longer than the other, as they both provide the same tactile feedback and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
The Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25 per 10 switches.
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 typing experience, providing a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is known for its silent typing capabilities, thanks to its innovative design that absorbs sound and reduces noise, though specific sound characteristics are not provided. Depending on your setup, both switches can provide a satisfying auditory experience, with the Berry emphasizing a bass-heavy tone while the Zero Degree 0° focuses on minimizing noise.
Moving on to feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch offers a textured typing experience with a springy and chalk-like feel, providing a tactile sensation that some users may prefer for its unique friction. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch boasts a smooth and elastic feel due to its self-padding design and dual-rail structure, offering stability and comfort during typing sessions. While the Berry emphasizes texture and friction, the Zero Degree 0° focuses on smoothness and stability, catering to different preferences in typing feel.
In conclusion, both the Kailh Berry and Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Berry switch provides a deep, bassy sound profile with a textured typing experience, appealing to those who enjoy a tactile feel and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° switch prioritizes silent typing with a smooth and stable feel, making it a great choice for those who value a quiet and comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a springy typing experience, the Kailh Berry linear switch would be a great choice for you. The Berry switch offers a deep sound profile and a textured feel, providing a unique typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no bottom out force and a focus on silent typing, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch would be more suitable for you. The Zero Degree 0° switch is engineered for smoothness, stability, and noise reduction, making it ideal for those who prioritize a quiet typing environment. Ultimately, the decision between the Kailh Berry and Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches will come down to your preferences in typing experience and sound profile.
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