Bsun Avocado vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Avocado and Gateron Type A offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Bsun Avocado is renowned for its tactile feedback, delivering a satisfying bump that transitions into a smooth keystroke. Its acoustics are mild and unobtrusive, providing a tactile typing experience without overwhelming noise. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" focuses on the latest factory lubing techniques and innovative travel distances. This linear switch offers a medium-weight feel with a deeper sound signature. While the Avocado is invigorating and sharp, the Type A is more neutral and subdued. If you prefer a tactile typing experience, the Avocado may be the way to go, while the Type A is a solid choice for those seeking a smooth linear switch. 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
50g
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
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Avocado and Gateron Type A switches differ in terms of the top housing material used. The Avocado features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is also ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Type A switch utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to polycarbonate, leading to a duller and rounder sound.
In contrast, both the Avocado and Type A switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housing material. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile in both switches. Nylon's ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics creates a more rounded and muted sound when typing on these switches. Despite having different top housing materials, the shared use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a similar sound profile in terms of depth and fullness.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Bsun Avocado and Gateron Type A switches impacts the sound profile and feel of typing on the switches. The Avocado's combination of a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing results in a sharp, crisp sound when pressing down and a deeper sound when releasing the key. On the other hand, the Type A switch's use of nylon for both top and bottom housing creates a consistent deep and full sound profile throughout typing. The differences in housing materials highlight how a switch's construction can influence the overall typing experience and sound output.
Weight
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron Type A linear switch with a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Avocado requires a heavier 65 grams to fully press down, while the Type A only needs 55 grams. This means that the Avocado provides a more substantial typing experience with a higher bottom out force, catering to those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Type A offers a lighter bottom out force, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, with the Avocado leaning towards a heavier feel and the Type A towards a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it a shorter option compared to the Gateron Type A linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Avocado's shorter travel distance provides a quicker response time, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Type A's longer travel distance may offer a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches offer different experiences, catering to individual preferences in terms of key feel and responsiveness. Ultimately, whether you choose the Avocado or the Type A will depend on your personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70 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
When comparing the sound qualities of the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, the Avocado is known for providing a mild, neutral sound signature that complements its tactile experience well. On the other hand, the Type A offers a sound that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum, with a more subdued and dampened profile. Both switches offer a unique auditory experience, with the Avocado providing a more unobtrusive backdrop while the Type A offers a subtle sound signature. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by external factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Avocado switch is renowned for its accentuated tactility, creating a satisfying and immersive typing sensation with its snappy and sharp tactile bump. It offers pronounced feedback without being overwhelming, providing a balance between responsiveness and comfort. On the other hand, information regarding the feel of the Gateron Type A linear switch is not available. Given the descriptions provided, it can be inferred that the Avocado switch offers a more tactile and responsive typing experience compared to the Type A, which may have a smoother and more linear feel.
Considering the subjective qualities of the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is evident that each switch offers a unique typing experience. The Avocado excels in providing a tactile and invigorating feel with a neutral sound signature, while the Type A boasts a deeper sound profile with a more subdued feel. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, users can choose between the pronounced tactility of the Avocado or the smoothness of the Type A for a satisfying typing experience. While individual results may vary, both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing experience and cater to a diverse range of users.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, you should consider the feel and sound preferences that best suit your typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy tactile experience with a pronounced feedback and a buttery downstroke, the Avocado switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light linear switch with a subdued sound profile and a deeper sound spectrum, the Type A switch might be more fitting for your needs. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to your personal preference for tactility, feedback, and sound signature. So, make sure to consider these factors carefully before making your decision.
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