Bsun Avocado vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The BSUN Avocado switch offers a tactile typing experience, characterized by a snappy bump and buttery downstroke that provides satisfying feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning switch is known for its linear feel, perfect for scenarios where speed is crucial and every millisecond counts. Typing on the Lightning switch provides a slick feel with a clacky sound profile. The Avocado switch is categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', while the Lightning switch is labeled as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Chirpy', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Avocado and the KTT Lightning both use polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate plastic enhances resonance and clarity in the sound produced by both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing. Despite being from different manufacturers, both switches provide similar sound characteristics due to their shared use of polycarbonate for the top housing.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Avocado and the Lightning utilize nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Therefore, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to the bottom housing material, as the nylon construction enhances the overall sound profile of each switch.
Having different top and bottom housing materials can affect the overall typing experience of a switch. The qualities brought by each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel while the top housing impacts the sound when a key is released. This division of characteristics allows for a more nuanced and dynamic typing experience, as different aspects of the sound profile are influenced by the different housing materials used in the construction of the switches.
Weight
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Lightning linear switch with an actuation force of 43 grams. However, the Avocado also has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams while the Lightning has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Avocado switch provides a more substantial typing experience overall compared to the Lightning switch. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Lightning switch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who want a more tactile and robust feel may opt for the Avocado switch. Both switches offer different experiences based on the weight preferences of the user.
Travel distance
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is longer than the KTT Lightning linear switch with a travel distance of 3 mm. Both switches fall below the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance, making them suitable for those who prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Lightning switch for faster gaming performance. However, individuals who enjoy a deeper key press may find the Avocado switch more satisfying due to its slightly longer travel distance. In terms of preference, those looking for a more responsive feel may lean towards the Lightning switch, while those desiring a more substantial key press may favor the Avocado switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Avocado has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Avocado for $4.00.
The KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 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 BSUN Avocado tactile switch offers a mild and neutral sound profile, providing a quiet and unobtrusive typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning linear switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The Lightning switch's sound profile is more prominent and adds a tactile element to the typing experience, while the Avocado switch remains subtle and understated in comparison.
In terms of feel, the BSUN Avocado switch is characterized by an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, offering a snappy and responsive typing sensation. This switch provides a pronounced bump without being overwhelming, creating a satisfying tactile experience. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning linear switch is described as subtle and polished, offering a gentle resistance and smooth key travel. The Lightning switch provides a light typing feel with reduced friction, emphasizing a sleek and refined typing experience.
Considering both switches, the BSUN Avocado and KTT Lightning offer distinct qualities in sound and feel. The Avocado switch excels in providing a tactile typing experience with pronounced feedback and a mild sound signature, while the Lightning switch focuses on speed and smooth key travel with a clacky sound profile. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, individuals can choose between the satisfying tactility of the Avocado switch or the smooth and polished typing experience of the Lightning switch. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring a customized and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, it all comes down to your preferred typing experience. If you crave a tactile switch that offers a satisfying bump and a buttery downstroke, along with a mild, neutral sound profile, then the Avocado is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and a slick typing feel, with a clacky sound profile that can give you that extra edge in competitive situations, then the Lightning switch is your best bet. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on whether you prioritize tactility or speed in your typing experience.
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