Huano Acacia vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the Huano Acacia and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Acacia and Bsun Taichi are two intriguing options that cater to different preferences in the linear switch category. The Acacia is celebrated for its medium-light weight, generous factory lubrication, and minimal stem wobble, which combine to create a delightful typing experience right out of the box. This makes it an excellent choice for users who value tactile feedback without feeling weighed down while typing. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi switches impress with their unique high-pitched bottom-out sound, a product of their long-pole stem design, extended springs, and walled stems, which work together to deliver unparalleled smoothness and stability. This switch may be ideal for typists or gamers looking for a distinctive auditory and tactile experience with each keystroke. Both switches come with their own set of advantages, appealing to different user preferences, but it's essential to evaluate them beyond these generalities to determine which option might best suit your individual needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Huano Acacia and Bsun Taichi share remarkably similar housing materials, which directly influence their acoustic characteristics and aesthetic appeal. Both switches utilize a polycarbonate top housing, well-known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to its ability to resonate clearly, enhancing the auditory feedback experienced when typing. Additionally, both housings' translucency allows for effective RGB lighting integration, making them visually striking options for users who prefer illuminated keyboards. Given these shared properties, users can expect comparable sound profiles and aesthetic outcomes from both the Acacia and Taichi switches.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both switches is comprised of nylon, a versatile and time-tested material in the keyboard switch market. Nylon's softer properties create a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing vibrations more effectively than harder materials. This aspect plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience, particularly in how the bottom-out sound is perceived when a key is fully pressed. Despite the differing impacts of the top and bottom housings, the use of nylon in both cases ensures that users experience a smoother, more muted acoustic quality, leading to a rounded and pleasant typing feel for both the Acacia and Taichi switches.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate tops and nylon bottoms in both the Huano Acacia and Bsun Taichi delivers a balanced auditory experience that caters to a range of user preferences. While their sound profiles may differ during key press and release due to the distinct materials at play, the similarities in their design promise a consistent performance, both in terms of sound clarity and aesthetic enhancement. Users can expect to enjoy the best of both worlds: the crisp resonance of polycarbonate and the rich, dampened sound of nylon, making either choice an appealing option for those seeking quality in their keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, significant differences in actuation force are evident, while the bottom out force for the Taichi switch remains unknown. The Acacia switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, which provides a medium-light feel, making it suitable for extended typing and gaming sessions. In contrast, the Taichi's actuation force is slightly lighter at 40 grams, appealing to users who prefer a subtle press with minimal resistance. However, since Bsun has not disclosed a bottom out force for the Taichi, we can’t directly compare their bottoming out feel, which is crucial for those who seek a more robust typing experience. Overall, the Huano Acacia is the heavier option based on its actuation force, while the Taichi, with its lighter actuation, may be more appealing to those looking for a less strenuous typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, the Acacia features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Taichi has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that if you prefer a more responsive feel, the Acacia's shorter distance may be the better option, as it allows for quicker actuation. In contrast, the Taichi's longer travel distance could be preferable for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience, as the additional millimeter may provide a greater sense of depth. Overall, the Acacia is the shorter switch at 3.5 mm, while the Taichi is the longer option at 3.6 mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
The Huano Acacia comes in at $3.39 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
The Huano Acacia linear switch produces a sound profile that blends a soft, muted thock with the gentle crispness associated with linear switches. This muted quality can be attributed to the generous factory lubrication that minimizes any harshness during key presses and releases, making for a more subdued auditory experience. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi linear switch stands out with its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, resulting from its long-pole stem and extended springs. This can create a more pronounced auditory feedback when the key is fully engaged, offering a sound that can be particularly appealing for those who enjoy a more expressive auditory element during typing.
Regarding feel, the Acacia switch is characterized by its medium-light weight and minimal stem wobble, delivering a smooth and stable typing experience right from the start. This alignment in design leads to a pleasant and predictable feedback with each keystroke. The Taichi, on the other hand, is designed for unparalleled smoothness and stability, thanks to its walled stems and thoughtful engineering. Users can expect a fluid action with a satisfying lack of friction, contributing to a seamless typing experience. Though each switch has its own take on the feel, both provide a commendable level of smoothness that will appeal to enthusiasts.
In conclusion, when choosing between the Huano Acacia and the Bsun Taichi linear switches, the primary considerations will involve sound preferences and tactile experience. The Acacia offers a more subdued and soft auditory profile with a stable and smooth typing feeling, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter experience. Meanwhile, the Taichi provides a distinctive high-pitched sound and exceptional smoothness, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory signal. Ultimately, regardless of the switch selected, both options provide a satisfying typing experience with their own unique characteristics, allowing users to find a fit that resonates with their personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. The Acacia, with its medium-light actuation force of 55 grams, is ideal for those who enjoy a smoother and more effortless typing experience. Its generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble ensure that you won’t have to invest much time in customizing your switches to achieve an excellent feel right out of the box. If you’re looking for a solid all-around switch that prioritizes comfort and ease, the Acacia would be your go-to choice. On the other hand, if you are intrigued by a unique auditory experience and appreciate high-pitched bottom-out sounds, the Bsun Taichi may be more appealing. Its long-pole stem and extended springs provide a distinctly smooth and stable feel, making it an appealing option for those who enjoy typing with a bit more character in their keystrokes. Ultimately, consider how much you value sound, feel, and ease of use when making your decision, and choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.