Bsun Avocado vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Avocado and Cherry MX Black stand out as popular choices with distinct characteristics. The Bsun Avocado switch is hailed for its tactile feedback, featuring a snappy and responsive bump that transitions into a smooth downstroke. This switch offers pronounced tactility without overwhelming feedback, accompanied by a mild and neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switch, known for its linear operation, showcases Cherry's expertise with Hyperglide tooling for a textured smoothness. Typing on these switches results in a deep sound profile, providing a different typing experience compared to the Avocado. Each switch has its own unique qualities to consider when selecting the best fit for your preferences; 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
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Avocado and the Cherry MX Black, one key difference lies in the top housing material. The Avocado features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the MX Black utilizes a nylon top housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound with a duller and rounder profile. These differences in top housing material contribute to distinct sound experiences for users of each switch.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, both the Bsun Avocado and the Cherry MX Black utilize nylon. Nylon is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than stiffer plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when comparing the Avocado and the MX Black switches. Despite any differences in their top housing materials, the nylon bottom housing provides a consistent typing experience between the two switches.
Overall, the choice of housing material in a switch can significantly impact the sound profile and feel of typing. While the Avocado and the MX Black differ in their top housing materials, their shared use of nylon in the bottom housing means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Avocado or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon in the MX Black, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role. The Avocado has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the MX Black's 60 grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Avocado requires 65 grams of force while the MX Black needs 80 grams, making the MX Black the heavier option for a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter feel may opt for the Avocado switch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a heavier push might choose the MX Black for a more pronounced typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it is clear that the Avocado has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the MX Black has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Avocado's 3.4 mm travel distance is ideal for those seeking a faster response time, such as gamers, while the MX Black's 4 mm travel distance offers a more substantial and deeper feel when typing. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, but the slight difference can make a noticeable impact on the overall typing experience. In this case, if you prefer a shorter travel distance for quicker feedback, the Avocado would be the better choice, while the MX Black would be the preferred option for those who enjoy a deeper key press sensation.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Bsun Avocado tactile switch offers a satisfyingly tactile typing experience with a prominent feedback and a buttery downstroke. The sound produced by these switches is described as neutral and unobtrusive. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch provides a classic smoothness with a deep sound profile. While the Avocado switch is known for its invigorating, sharp, and snappy feel, the MX Black switch is characterized by its textured and stiff attributes. Despite their differences in sound and feel, both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch will depend on individual typing preferences, with the former offering a tactile experience and the latter providing a smooth linear feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the BSUN Avocado tactile switch or the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a medium-heavy tactile switch with a pronounced tactile bump and a buttery downstroke, the Avocado is the way to go. The Avocado offers an invigorating and sharp typing sensation with a responsive feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavy linear switch with a smooth texture and a deep sound profile, the MX Black might be more suited to your typing style. The MX Black provides a stiff feel with a low-pitched sound that may appeal to those seeking a heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on your personal preference for tactile feedback and actuation force. Choose wisely based on what typing experience you find most enjoyable.