Kailh Berry vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Kailh Berry, a linear switch, and the KTT Rose, also a linear switch, offer distinct features that make them appealing to different users. The Berry switches are renowned for their hefty typing experience, offering a satisfying and springy feel. Typing on them results in a chalk-like texture, and their sound profile is deep and resonant. On the other hand, the Rose switches are visually stunning but have more to offer than meets the eye. The progressive springs used in these switches provide a substantial typing experience without feeling heavy. The sound produced when using the Rose switches resembles bassy raindrops. While the Berry switches are characterized by their textured and low-pitched sound, the Rose switches have a more neutral and polished tone. However, let's dive in deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision and choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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
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
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Berry and the KTT Rose both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housing. This choice of material results in a similar effect for both switches, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, further enhancing the aesthetic appeal. Therefore, users can expect comparable outcomes in terms of sound and visual experience when using either the Berry or the Rose.
In contrast, the two switches differ in terms of their bottom housing material. The Kailh Berry opts for a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to the softer nature of nylon, allowing it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, typing on the Berry switch elicits a duller and rounder sound upon impact. On the other hand, the KTT Rose also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar effect of a deeper and fuller sound profile. The choice of nylon as the bottom housing material is consistent between the two switches, therefore users can expect a comparable typing experience in this aspect.
It is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. Pressing down on either the Kailh Berry or the KTT Rose will primarily manifest the characteristics of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the release of a key will be most impacted by the qualities of the top housing. This indicates that while the housing materials may differ between the switches, the overall typing experience and sound output will be similar in terms of bottom-out and key release, ensuring a consistent user experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, it is important to note that the specific force value for actuation is unavailable for both switches. However, the Berry switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy, while the Rose switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, also falling into the medium-heavy category.
Considering weight in keyboard switches can have various implications. Some individuals prefer a lighter actuation force as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This is especially beneficial for keyboards used at work or during extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, some users prefer a heavier actuation force to give a more substantial and satisfying typing experience. These individuals tend to prefer switches with heavier forces.
In terms of actuation force, since the specific values are unknown for both switches, it is difficult to make a direct comparison. However, based on the provided bottom out force values, it can be inferred that the Kailh Berry switch is slightly heavier than the KTT Rose switch.
In summary, while the actuation forces for both the Kailh Berry and KTT Rose linear switches are unavailable, it can be concluded that the Berry switch is heavier in terms of bottom out force at 70 grams, while the Rose switch is slightly lighter at 63.5 grams. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for typing experience and desired actuation forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a keyboard. In this case, the Kailh Berry linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Rose linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm.
The 4 mm travel distance of the Rose switch falls within the range of a traditional travel distance, offering a more familiar typing experience. On the other hand, the Berry switch has a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers who prioritize faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker key presses, making it ideal for gaming where every millisecond counts.
However, it's important to note that shorter travel distances can sometimes feel abrupt to certain individuals. Those who prefer a more substantial and satisfying key press may find the longer travel distance of the Rose switch to be more to their liking.
In conclusion, the Kailh Berry linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Rose linear switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. Depending on individual preferences, the Berry switch may be preferred for its faster response times, while the Rose switch may appeal to those who prefer a deeper and more substantial key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25, whereas the KTT Rose comes in at $3.01.
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 and the KTT Rose linear switch have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Berry switches offer a springy typing experience with a chalk-like texture, and their sound profile is described as fairly deep, low-pitched, and bassy. On the other hand, the Rose switches provide a unique typing experience with progressive springs, offering a substantial yet not heavy feel. The sound produced by the Rose switches is described as low-pitched and neutral.
While both switches have low-pitched sound profiles, the Rose switches are also characterized as having a moderate sound profile that makes them suitable for various purposes. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Berry switches are described as having a textured or scratchy feel, which can provide noticeable friction when pressed. In contrast, the Rose switches offer a mild and approachable typing experience, standing in a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Rose switches are considered to be polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and provides a sleek typing experience.
In conclusion, the Kailh Berry linear switches and KTT Rose linear switches have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Berry switches offer a springy feel with a chalk-like texture and a deep, bassy sound profile. On the other hand, the Rose switches provide a substantial yet not heavy typing experience, with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. While the Berry switches have a textured feel, the Rose switches are described as mild and polished, providing a gentle and smooth typing experience. It is important to consider these qualities and choose the switch that aligns with your preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who enjoys a hefty typing experience with a springy feel and chalk-like texture, the Kailh Berry linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches provide a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams and have a fairly deep sound profile, described as low-pitched and bassy. On the other hand, if you prefer a substantial yet not heavy typing experience with a unique sound, the KTT Rose linear switch is worth considering. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, these switches offer a beautiful design and produce a low-pitched sound similar to bassy raindrops. Additionally, the Rose switches are described as neutral, making them suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Moreover, if you value a textured typing experience with noticeable friction, you may prefer the Berry switches, while the Rose switches provide a mild and polished feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound, and feel.
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