Bsun Avocado vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Avocado, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Silver, a linear switch, it's important to note their distinct characteristics. The BSUN Avocado switches offer a tactile experience that is accentuated by a snappy, responsive bump followed by a smooth downstroke. This provides a satisfying feedback without being overwhelming, accompanied by a mild and neutral sound signature. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver switches are characterized by their linear feel with no tactile bump or audible feedback. While the Avocado switch is known for its invigorating and sharp feel, the Silver switch remains silent and smooth. In general, if you prefer a tactile typing experience with satisfying feedback, the Avocado switch may be the ideal choice. However, if you prioritize a quiet and smooth keystroke without any tactile bump, the Silver switch could be more suitable. Nevertheless, 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
The housing materials of the Bsun Avocado and the Outemu Silver are both made of polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing. Therefore, in terms of sound profile and aesthetics, the Avocado and Silver switches offer similar results with their polycarbonate top housings.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the Bsun Avocado and the Outemu Silver are made of nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. Its softer nature absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. With both switches utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel. The qualities of nylon in the bottom housing contribute significantly to the sound and feedback when pressing down on the keys of these switches.
Overall, the Bsun Avocado and Outemu Silver demonstrate the importance of housing materials in determining the sound profile of mechanical switches. While both switches share the use of polycarbonate for the top housing, providing a sharp and crisp sound, they also utilize nylon for the bottom housing, leading to a deeper and fuller sound experience. The balance between the stiffness of polycarbonate and the softness of nylon in these switches showcases how different housing materials can affect the overall typing experience. Whether it's the impact on bottom-out sound and feel from the bottom housing or the sound upon key release from the top housing, each material plays a crucial role in shaping the auditory feedback of these mechanical switches.
Weight
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch have equal actuation forces of 45 grams and bottom out forces of 65 grams, making them both medium-heavy switches. This means that both switches require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke and to press the key all the way down. While some may prefer a lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions, others may prefer a heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of force requirements, allowing for consistent results whether choosing the Avocado or Silver.
Travel distance
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, which is shorter than the 4mm travel distance of the Outemu Silver linear switch. This means that the Avocado requires less distance to actuate compared to the Silver, making it potentially more suitable for those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Silver switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which might be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial key press. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are increasingly popular, offering a balance between quick response and tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and actuation speed.
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 Silver 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
The Avocado switch offers a tactile experience that is accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, providing a satisfying and immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Silver switch's feel is unknown. When it comes to sound, the Avocado switch has a mild, neutral sound signature, while the sound characteristics of the Silver switch are not specified. Overall, choosing between the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch will come down to personal preference in terms of both feel and sound. If you enjoy a tactile typing experience with a responsive bump and subdued sound, the Avocado switch may be the better choice for you. If you prefer a linear switch with an unknown feel and sound, the Silver switch may be worth considering for a different typing experience. Ultimately, trying out both switches on a keyboard with your favorite keycaps will give you the most accurate comparison and help you determine which switch suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when selecting between the BSUN Avocado tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, consider your preference for tactile feedback and sound. If you enjoy a tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump but not overwhelming feedback, the Avocado switch is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with no tactile feedback and a quiet typing experience, the Silver switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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