Bsun Avocado vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Avocado and the Outemu Crystal Brown mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are tactile switches, it's evident that they offer distinct experiences for users. The BSUN Avocado switches are praised for their refreshing tactile feel, featuring a snappy bump followed by a smooth downstroke, providing satisfying feedback without being overwhelming. In contrast, the Outemu Crystal Brown switches lack a specific standout feature but are known for their tactile feedback. The Avocado switches are categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', while the Crystal Brown switches do not have any specific categorization. Deciding between the two switches may depend on your preference for a more pronounced tactile experience versus a more subtle one. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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
While both the Bsun Avocado and the Outemu Crystal Brown feature polycarbonate top housings, they also both exhibit a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. With these similarities in mind, users can expect a consistent sound profile and aesthetic appeal from both switches when it comes to their polycarbonate top housings.
On the other hand, the Avocado's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Crystal Brown's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Despite the different qualities each material brings to the bottom housing of the switches, users can still expect a similar level of sound absorption and impact when typing on either switch. This can result in a satisfying typing experience with a unique sound profile that is influenced by the nylon bottom housing of each switch.
In terms of functionality, the split between the qualities of the top and bottom housings of the switches means that users will experience a combination of the effects of both materials when typing. The bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound produced when a key is released. This division of qualities between the two parts of the switch provides users with a diverse and dynamic typing experience that can cater to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch are quite different. The Avocado has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Crystal Brown's 55 grams, making it feel more substantial when typing. However, they both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, so in terms of triggering a keystroke, they will provide similar results. The Avocado is heavier overall, making it better suited for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Crystal Brown is lighter and may be more comfortable for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of weight and typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Avocado tactile switch is 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Crystal Brown has a longer travel distance compared to the Avocado. 4.0mm is considered the most traditional travel distance, while 3.0mm is the most shallow. Gamers often opt for shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Avocado a potential choice for gaming setups. However, some users may find shorter travel distances too abrupt and prefer the deeper keypress of the Crystal Brown. Ultimately, the choice between the Avocado and Crystal Brown switches will depend on individual preferences for key travel distance.
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 Crystal Brown 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
Overall, the BSUN Avocado tactile switch offers a satisfying typing experience with its pronounced tactility and buttery downstroke, accompanied by a mild and neutral sound profile that doesn't disrupt the typing flow. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch lacks specific information regarding its sound and feel characteristics. However, based on the available information, it can be assumed that the Avocado may provide a more invigorating and sharp tactile feel compared to the Crystal Brown. If you are looking for a switch with a lively and responsive typing sensation, the Avocado may be the better choice. Ultimately, to truly determine the best switch for you, it is recommended to try out different switches on various keyboards to find the perfect match for your preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it really comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a tactile switch with a pronounced, satisfying feedback and a buttery downstroke, then the Bsun Avocado switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and are seeking a switch with a slightly lighter tactile bump, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique typing experiences, so it's important to consider your preferences and priorities when making your decision.