Bsun Pine vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch offer unique and contrasting typing experiences. The Pine switch is acclaimed for its sharp tactile bump and fast action, making it an ideal choice for those who value direct tactility and quick bottoming-out. On the other hand, the Laurel switch features a medium-light linear feel with a full POM housing, providing a balance of responsiveness and comfort along with a subtly low-pitched sound profile. While the Pine switch is characterized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the Laurel switch is described as 'Low-pitched' and 'Snappy'. Both switches have their own set of advantages, but delving deeper into their unique features will help you determine which one suits your typing preferences best. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Pine and the KTT Laurel, we can see that both switches have unique characteristics. The Pine features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Laurel boasts a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While the Pine's top housing lends itself well to RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Laurel's top housing provides a pleasing and unique sound experience. Despite these differences, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Pine utilizes a nylon material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Similarly, the Laurel features a POM bottom housing that also contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile. Both switches prioritize sound quality with their choice of bottom housing material, offering users a satisfying typing experience. While the specific sound characteristics may vary between the two, the overall goal of enhancing sound quality remains consistent.
It is worth noting that having different materials for the top and bottom housings of a switch can impact the overall sound experience. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite the variations in housing materials between the Pine and the Laurel, users can expect a well-rounded sound experience from both switches. Whether preferring a sharper and crisper sound profile or a deeper and more muted sound, the choice between the Pine and the Laurel ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Weight
The Bsun Pine tactile switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Pine has a higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Laurel's 43 grams, making it slightly heavier to press down on. In terms of bottom out force, the Pine requires 65 grams of force while the Laurel only requires 50 grams, making the Laurel lighter to press all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience to prevent fatigue during long typing sessions or gaming, the Laurel may be the better option. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel and don't mind heavier key presses, the Pine would be the preferred choice. Both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out force if both have the same values. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for typing experience.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the KTT Laurel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for faster response times. However, the Laurel has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more substantial and satisfying key press for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Overall, both switches offer similar tactile experiences with the Pine being slightly shorter and the Laurel being slightly longer in travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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, sharp sound profile due to its distinct tactile bump and quick bottom-out action. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel linear switch provides a subtly low-pitched sound that is more mellow and bass-heavy compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches offer a different auditory experience, so the choice between them would depend on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the BSUN Pine tactile switch is known for its accented and invigorating tactile feedback, with a sharp and snappy feel that provides a responsive and immersive typing sensation. Conversely, the KTT Laurel linear switch also offers a snappy feel that is super responsive, making the typing experience feel more alive. While the Pine switch offers a more pronounced and intense tactile feedback, the Laurel switch focuses more on responsiveness and comfort. Again, the decision between the two would come down to individual typing preferences.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch offer distinct but equally impressive qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches provide a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences – whether you prefer a sharp tactile bump with quick feedback like the Pine switch, or a snappy and responsive linear feel like the Laurel switch. Ultimately, trying out both switches on different keyboards and setups would be the best way to determine which one suits your typing style and preference the most.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a sharp tactile bump, the BSUN Pine tactile switch would be a great choice for you. Its direct, no-nonsense tactility and fast action make it ideal for those who enjoy a distinct typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth linear feel, the KTT Laurel linear switch might be more suitable for you. With its responsive and comfortable design, the Laurel offers a subtle low-pitched sound profile and snappy typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the Pine and Laurel switches will come down to your personal preference for tactile feedback and actuation force.
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