Bsun Pine vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the TKC Kiwi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Pine and TKC Kiwi both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The BSUN Pine switch is best known for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing a direct and no-nonsense typing experience. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi switch offers a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, delivering a satisfyingly snappy sound profile for an immersive typing experience. While the Pine switch is categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the Kiwi switch is categorized as 'Stepped', 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Accented', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, but diving deeper into their specific characteristics will help you make the best decision for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Pine and the TKC Kiwi, it is clear that they both offer unique sound profiles based on the materials used. The Pine's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, while the Kiwi's UHWMPE top housing offers a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks. Both materials play a significant role in determining the sound output of the switches, albeit with differing characteristics. However, it should be noted that they both allow for RGB lighting due to their translucent properties, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing materials, the Pine utilizes nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile, whereas the Kiwi employs UHWMPE for a bright sound signature. The nylon bottom housing of the Pine absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. In contrast, the UHWMPE bottom housing of the Kiwi offers a resonant sound with clacks that are more pronounced. The choice of bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switches.
In terms of overall construction, the differences in housing materials between the Bsun Pine and the TKC Kiwi result in unique typing experiences for users. While the Pine focuses on a combination of polycarbonate and nylon for a balanced sound profile, the Kiwi utilizes UHWMPE for both top and bottom housings to achieve a consistently bright and resonant sound. Both switches prioritize offering distinct sound profiles and typing experiences, showcasing the importance of housing materials in the design and performance of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, it is evident that the Kiwi has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Pine's 45 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Pine requires 65 grams while the Kiwi needs 67 grams, making the Pine slightly lighter in this aspect. Both switches fall under the category of medium-heavy in terms of force needed for actuation and bottoming out. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience to avoid fatigue during long typing sessions or gaming, the Kiwi may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Pine. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the TKC Kiwi tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the TKC Kiwi has the longer travel distance compared to the Bsun Pine. The 0.6 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the feel and feedback of the switch when typing or gaming. The shorter travel distance of the Bsun Pine may appeal to those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers, while the longer travel distance of the TKC Kiwi may provide a more satisfying tactile experience for others. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the level of feedback desired.
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 TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 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 it comes to sound, the Bsun Pine switch offers a low-pitched tone, giving off a more bass-heavy and mellow sound profile. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi switch provides a more neutral sound, with a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for various typing environments. Both switches deliver satisfying auditory feedback, with the Pine switch offering a unique low-pitched sound and the Kiwi switch providing a more versatile, neutral sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Pine switch is characterized by its sharp tactile bump and invigorating feedback, creating a snappy and sharp typing sensation. The switch is known for its distinctive feedback intensity and quick actuation. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi switch offers a stepped tactile feel with a medium to medium-strong bump, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. The switch is lightly factory lubed for reduced friction and smooth key travel, offering a polished and comfortable feel. Both switches provide a prominent amount of tactility, with the Pine switch offering a more sharp and intense feedback, while the Kiwi switch delivers a more mild and polished typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Bsun Pine and TKC Kiwi switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, they both provide an immersive typing experience with satisfying tactile feedback. The Pine switch stands out for its sharp and intense tactile bump, creating a distinct and quick bottom-out feel, while the Kiwi switch offers a stepped, polished feel with a medium-strong bump for smooth and effortless typing. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches are excellent choices for a tactile typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, it all comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you enjoy a sharp and direct tactile bump with a quick bottom-out, the Pine switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-strong bump with a snappy sound profile and smooth typing experience right out of the box, the Kiwi switch could be more suitable. Consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and feel descriptors of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your overall typing experience, so choose the one that resonates most with you.
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