Bsun Pine vs. KTT Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the KTT Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Pine and KTT Cream Yellow offer unique experiences for users seeking different typing sensations. The BSUN Pine switch is a tactile switch known for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing clear-cut feedback and fast action. On the other hand, the KTT Cream Yellow is a linear switch designed to deliver a distinctively clacky sound with its shortened bottom-out distance and bouncy typing feel. While the Pine switch is favored for its direct and no-nonsense tactility, the Cream Yellow switch stands out for its resonant audio feedback and unique bouncy typing experience. 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
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Bsun Pine and the KTT Cream Yellow feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound overall. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. With both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housings, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetics.
In contrast, the Bsun Pine and the KTT Cream Yellow differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Pine features a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound-absorbing properties. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering similar qualities of a deeper and fuller sound experience. This choice of material impacts the overall typing experience and sound outcome, as the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
While both switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the differences in their nylon bottom housings showcase how the choice of material can impact the overall typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housing qualities means that users will feel the impact of the bottom housing during key presses, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing the key. By understanding the unique qualities of each housing material, users can make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch's actuation force of 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Pine requires a heavier 65 grams compared to the Cream Yellow's 58 grams, making the Cream Yellow the lighter option overall. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Cream Yellow, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. In contrast, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Pine, which offers a heavier bottom out force for a more pronounced keystroke. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for their faster response times. The Pine is slightly shorter than the Cream Yellow, which may result in a slightly quicker keystroke. However, the difference of 0.1 mm is minimal and may not be noticeable to the average user. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, providing a more responsive typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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 Pine tactile switch offers a unique and sharp tactile bump that can produce a crisp and percussive sound when pressed, creating a distinctive audio feedback experience. On the other hand, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is specifically designed to deliver a clacky sound, known for its resonant and snappy sound profile. Both switches offer distinct sound qualities, with the Pine providing a direct and no-nonsense tactility, while the Cream Yellow offers a bouncy typing feel that complements its clacky sound.
When it comes to feel, the BSUN Pine tactile switch is characterized by its sharp tactile bump and fast action, providing a responsive and invigorating typing sensation. The switch offers a prominent amount of tactile feedback without being overwhelming, creating an immersive typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is known for its bouncy feel, giving the keys a spring-like and lively sensation with each press. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Pine being sharp and snappy, while the Cream Yellow provides a more elastic and rebounding feel.
In conclusion, the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Pine switch provides a sharp tactile bump and direct feedback, while the Cream Yellow switch delivers a clacky sound and bouncy typing feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a sharp and direct typing experience or a more clacky and bouncy feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the BSUN Pine tactile switch or the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a sharp tactile bump with fast action and distinct feedback, the Pine switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clacky sound with a bouncy and spring-like typing feel, the Cream Yellow switch would be more suitable for you. Both switches have their unique characteristics and benefits, so it's important to consider what you value most in a keyboard switch when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Pine and Cream Yellow switches will depend on what type of typing experience you prefer.