Bsun Pine vs. TTC Flaming Purple
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the TTC Flaming Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Pine and TTC Flaming Purple offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Pine switch is favored for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing direct and no-nonsense tactility for those who appreciate clear-cut feedback. On the other hand, the Flaming Purple switch from TTC stands out for its resonant character and bassier sound signature, adding a touch of poppy undertone to each keystroke. While the Pine switch is accented and snappy, the Flaming Purple switch is feathery and resonant, making it easy to press with a low-pitched sound profile. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
47g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Pine and the TTC Flaming Purple, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffer nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, the Pine's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Flaming Purple also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar sound characteristic. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing.
Despite both switches featuring similar housing materials in terms of their top and bottom components, the impact each material has on the overall sound and feel of the switch varies. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as the deeper sound profile created by nylon, have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the top housing, typically made of polycarbonate, influences the sound produced when a key is released. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings allows for a unique typing experience that combines the strengths of both materials.
Overall, the Bsun Pine and TTC Flaming Purple switches offer a blend of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches benefit from the stiffer and clearer sound produced by polycarbonate, the use of nylon in the bottom housings adds depth and fullness to the sound, creating a more rounded typing experience. Whether choosing the Pine or the Flaming Purple, users can expect a mix of sharpness and depth in the sound profile, with the top and bottom housings each playing a significant role in shaping the overall typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch, it is clear that the Pine is the heavier option, with a 45-gram actuation force and a 65-gram bottom out force. In contrast, the Flaming Purple is lighter, requiring only 42 grams to actuate and 47 grams to bottom out. The Pine offers a more substantial typing experience due to its higher force requirements, making it ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Flaming Purple is a lighter option, suitable for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for gamers seeking faster response times. The slight difference of 0.2 mm between the two may not be noticeable to most users, but those looking for a slightly deeper press may prefer the TTC Flaming Purple switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific feel that each user is looking for in their keyboard.
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 TTC Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
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 it comes to sound, the BSUN Pine tactile switch is known for its clear-cut feedback and quick bottom-out, offering a distinct auditory experience without unnecessary noise. On the other hand, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch stands out with a slightly bassier sound profile, adding a poppy undertone that enhances the typing experience. Depending on personal preferences, the Pine provides a direct and focused sound, while the Flaming Purple offers a more engaging and resonant tone that may appeal to users seeking a livelier typing sound.
In terms of feel, the BSUN Pine switch is described as sharp and invigorating, providing a pronounced tactile bump that is distinct with every keypress. This gives users a tactile sensation that is not overpowering but offers a satisfying feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Flaming Purple switch is noted for its feathery and easy-to-press nature, making typing swift and effortless. The smooth and silky feel of the Flaming Purple switch enhances the overall typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions and providing a comfortable touch that may be preferred by those looking for a lighter keystroke.
Overall, both the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. While the Pine excels in providing sharp tactility and quick bottom-out for a no-nonsense typing experience, the Flaming Purple stands out with a bassier sound profile and a feathery feel that enhances typists' comfort and typing speed. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the BSUN Pine tactile switch or the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch, you should take into account your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a sharp tactile bump and direct, fast action with a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams, the Pine switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light and feathery touch with a bottom-out force of just 47 grams, along with a unique bassy and resonant sound signature, then the Flaming Purple switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and needs.
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