Kailh Berry vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offer unique characteristics for different preferences. The Berry switch stands out for its hefty typing experience, springy feel, chalk-like texture, and deep sound profile, making it a solid choice for those who prefer a smooth and quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Melodic switch by Gateron redefines the clicky switch category with its smooth factory lubing, dual-railed stems, classic clicky sound, and tactile feedback, catering to users who enjoy a more audible and tactile 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Berry and the Gateron Melodic switches both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing. Despite both switches utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing, they may still produce slightly different sound profiles based on other factors such as stem design and overall construction.
While both the Kailh Berry and the Gateron Melodic switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, their bottom housings differ in material, with the Berry utilizing nylon and the Melodic also opting for nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This leads to a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Even though the bottom housing material is the same for both switches, subtle differences in design and construction may still influence the overall typing experience and sound produced by each switch.
The split between the top and bottom housing materials of the Kailh Berry and Gateron Melodic switches results in a division of the qualities each material brings to the overall sound profile. The bottom housing material, whether it be nylon for both switches, has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the top housing material, which is also polycarbonate for both switches, plays a larger role in the sound produced when a key is released. Despite their differences in bottom housing material, both switches may still offer similar typing experiences and sound profiles due to the shared polycarbonate top housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it is clear that the Berry is heavier with a bottom out force of 70 grams, compared to the Melodic's bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, but it can be assumed that they are similar since they are both linear switches. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Melodic switch, as it requires less force to bottom out. On the other hand, the Berry switch may be more suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired weight of the keys.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it a shorter and more responsive option compared to the Gateron Melodic clicky switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. Gamers looking for faster response times may lean towards the Berry switch due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more profound key press may opt for the Melodic switch with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, catering to different preferences among users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 is known for its low-pitched and bassy tones, providing a deep and mellow typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offers a resonant and crunchy sound profile, with higher-pitched tones and a clean, sharp auditory experience. Depending on personal preference, the Berry switch may be favored for those who enjoy a more bass-heavy sound, while the Melodic switch may appeal to users who appreciate a crisp and crunchy clicky sound.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch is described as textured, providing a noticeable friction when pressed that some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Conversely, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is characterized as buttery and invigorating, offering a smooth and uniform keystroke sensation with pronounced feedback and snappy actuation force. Users who value a smoother typing experience may lean towards the Melodic switch, while those who prefer a more textured feel may opt for the Berry switch.
Overall, both the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Berry switch provides a springy typing experience with a deep sound profile, the Melodic switch offers a smooth operation with a resonant and crunchy sound. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience. If similar results are desired, users can expect a consistent level of quality and performance from both switches.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the Kailh Berry linear switch or the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, keep in mind the differences in bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a springy feel and chalk-like texture, and enjoy a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, then the Kailh Berry linear switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value smoothness, a classic clicky sound, and tactile feedback without compromising on smoothness, along with a medium bottom out force and a resonant or crunchy sound profile, then the Gateron Melodic clicky switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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