Bsun Avocado vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Bsun Avocado, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Black, a linear switch, it all boils down to your personal preference and typing style. The Avocado switch offers a tactile experience that is both invigorating and sharp, with a snappy bump and buttery downstroke that provides satisfying feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Black switch is known for its smooth and consistent linear actuation with no tactile bump, offering a more straightforward typing experience. While the Avocado is ideal for those who enjoy a more tactile and satisfying typing feel, the Black may be preferred by individuals who prioritize a smooth and consistent keystroke. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Bsun Avocado and the Outemu Black switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, despite sharing the same material for their top housings, the Avocado and Black switches may still have different overall sound profiles due to other factors such as the bottom housing material.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Bsun Avocado and the Outemu Black switches use nylon, a classic material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This choice of material for the bottom housing helps to balance out the sound produced by the stiffer polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a more well-rounded typing experience for users of both switches.
Despite their similarities in housing materials, the Bsun Avocado and Outemu Black switches may still offer distinct typing experiences due to the ways in which the materials interact with each other. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a dynamic sound profile, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a role in the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, even with the same top and bottom housing materials, the overall typing feel and sound of the switches may vary depending on the balance between the two materials.
Weight
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Black linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Avocado requires 65 grams, while the Black needs 82 grams to bottom out. This means that the Avocado offers a lighter typing experience overall, making it more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions where fatigue might be a concern. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switch provides a more substantial and tactile typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired level of force feedback.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, it is evident that the Avocado has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Black has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The difference of 0.6 mm between the two switches may not seem significant, but it can have a noticeable impact on the typing or gaming experience. The Avocado's shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking a quicker response time, particularly gamers who value speed and efficiency. On the other hand, the Black's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for individuals who prefer a deeper key press sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.
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 Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 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
In terms of sound, the Avocado switch is known for its mild and neutral sound signature, providing a peaceful backdrop to the typing experience. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Black switch is not well-known, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Avocado switch is often described as Accented, Invigorating, Sharp, and Snappy. This means that it offers a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming but still provides a satisfying feedback with each keypress. The tactile bump is pronounced and can be distinctly felt, creating a lively typing sensation. As for the Outemu Black switch, there is no specific information available regarding its tactile feel, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison in this regard.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Bsun Avocado tactile switch is defined by its snappy and responsive bump, buttery downstroke, and moderate tactility with a mild sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Black linear switch lacks specific details about its sound and feel characteristics. While it is difficult to compare the two switches directly in all aspects, it is safe to say that both switches are likely to deliver reliable performance and user experience in their respective categories. Ultimately, the choice between the Avocado and Black switches will depend on personal preference for tactile feedback and sound profile.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the BSUN Avocado tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prioritize a tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a satisfying feedback without being overwhelming, then the Avocado switch is the one for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavy bottom out force and a linear typing experience without any tactile feedback, the Black switch might be more suited to your preferences. Consider your typing needs and preferences carefully to choose the switch that will enhance your overall typing experience.
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