Bsun Avocado vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the decision often comes down to personal preference and typing style. On one hand, the BSUN Avocado switches are lauded for their tactile feedback, offering a satisfying bump and buttery downstroke that balances responsiveness with comfort. With a mild and neutral sound signature, these switches provide a pleasant typing experience that is both invigorating and sharp. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switches stand out for their distinct clicky feel, boasting a heavy weight and sharp clickiness that adds a crunchy texture to each keystroke. While both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, the Avocado appeals to those seeking a tactile typing experience, while the Sage is ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced feedback. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
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 Kailh Sage use polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a similar sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, which enhances the clear and resonant sound of the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches meant to be used with RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the overall design of the switches. With both switches featuring polycarbonate top housings, users can expect a consistent sound experience with either option.
On the other hand, the Avocado and Sage differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with the Avocado using nylon and the Sage also utilizing nylon for this component. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound quality that may appeal to users looking for a more muted typing experience. Despite using the same material for their bottom housings, the Avocado and Sage may still offer slightly different typing feel and sound due to other factors such as switch design and spring weight.
In conclusion, while both the Bsun Avocado and Kailh Sage share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing, their differentiation lies in the choice of nylon for the bottom housing. This contrast in bottom housing materials may influence the overall typing experience, with the Avocado potentially offering a deeper and fuller sound while the Sage may provide a slightly different sound profile due to its own switch design. Ultimately, users looking for a more pronounced sound profile may prefer the Avocado, while those seeking a slightly different typing experience may opt for the Sage.
Weight
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Kailh Sage clicky switch, which has no specified actuation force. However, the Avocado has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Sage has a bottom out force of 70 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of force required. Some may prefer the Avocado for its lighter actuation force, which can be more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Sage for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch have slightly different travel distances, with the Avocado measuring at 3.4mm and the Sage at 3.6mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, the Sage offers a slightly longer distance for those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses. Gamers may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Avocado for quicker response times, while those who enjoy a more deliberate keystroke may lean towards the Sage. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of 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 Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25 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 Bsun Avocado switch offers a mild and neutral sound profile, providing a subtle backdrop to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch is described as having a crunchy sound, which is characteristic of clicky switches with a sharp and distinct clickiness. Overall, users can expect a quieter typing experience with the Avocado switch compared to the more audible sound produced by the Sage switch.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, both the Bsun Avocado and Kailh Sage switches offer an invigorating tactile sensation with pronounced feedback. The Avocado switch is characterized by a snappy and buttery downstroke, providing a tactile bump that is not overwhelming but still noticeable. Similarly, the Sage switch also offers a sharp tactile bump and a heavy weighting, creating a reactive and immersive typing experience. Both switches provide a satisfying tactile feedback that enhances the typing experience, making them suitable choices for users who enjoy tactile switches.
In conclusion, the Bsun Avocado and Kailh Sage switches offer unique tactile and auditory experiences for users seeking a satisfying typing experience. While the Avocado switch provides a more subdued sound profile and a pronounced tactile bump with a buttery downstroke, the Sage switch offers a crunchy sound with a distinct clickiness and a heavier weighting. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver a rewarding typing experience with their respective characteristics. Ultimately, users can expect a high level of tactility and feedback from both switches, ensuring a pleasant and engaging typing experience regardless of the choice between the Bsun Avocado and Kailh Sage switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the BSUN Avocado tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, consider your preference for tactility and sound. If you enjoy a pronounced tactile bump with a buttery downstroke and a mild, neutral sound, the Avocado may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavy and sharp clicky typing experience with a crunchy sound, the Sage switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and desired typing experience. Happy typing!
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