Bsun Pine vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to tactile mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Pine and KTT Matcha stand out as popular choices among enthusiasts. The BSUN Pine switches are revered for their sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing a direct and no-nonsense typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha offers a comfortable and snappy tactility, along with a clean bottom-out sound thanks to its long pole stem. While the Pine is described as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', 'Snappy', the Matcha is categorized as 'Stepped', 'Snappy', 'Accented', 'Clacky', 'Feathery', 'Subtle'. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that appeal to different preferences. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Pine and the KTT Matcha both feature polycarbonate top housing materials, which lead to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the housing creates a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, the Pine has a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Matcha.
While both the Bsun Pine and the KTT Matcha have polycarbonate top housings that create similar sound profiles, their bottom housing materials differ significantly. The nylon bottom housing of the Pine results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, providing a different typing experience than the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Matcha. This contrast in housing materials affects the overall typing experience, as the bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when pressing and releasing keys.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials for switches like the Bsun Pine and the KTT Matcha plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. While both switches have polycarbonate top housings that create a sharp and clear sound, the difference in bottom housing materials results in distinct sound profiles. The Pine's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Matcha's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials defines the overall typing experience and sound characteristics of each switch.
Weight
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Matcha tactile switch, which requires only 40 grams to actuate. When it comes to bottoming out, the Pine requires 65 grams of force, which is heavier than the Matcha's 45 grams. The Pine switch provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces, while the Matcha switch offers a lighter touch for those who prefer a gentler typing feel. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. Those looking for a more robust typing experience may opt for the Pine switch, while users who prefer a lighter touch may find the Matcha switch more suitable.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the KTT Matcha tactile switch that has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Pine offers a quicker response time, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster input feedback. On the other hand, the Matcha switch provides a deeper key press feel due to its longer travel distance, which may be more appealing to those who prefer a more substantial key press experience. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on their travel distances, with the Pine being shorter and the Matcha being longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 is known for producing a clear and sharp bottom-out sound due to its long pole stem design, ensuring a distinct auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha switch is described as clacky, offering a crisp and percussive sound when pressed. Both switches provide unique sound profiles that can be further enhanced or altered depending on the keyboard and keycap choices.
In terms of feel, the BSUN Pine switch is notable for its sharp and invigorating tactility, providing a pronounced tactile bump with moderate actuation force for a responsive typing sensation. The switch offers a snappy feel, making each keypress feel alive and engaging. Conversely, the KTT Matcha switch is characterized by its stepped tactile feedback, offering a mild two-stage bump sensation with a snappy and accented feel. Additionally, the Matcha switch provides a feathery and subtle typing experience, allowing for comfortable and light key presses suitable for long typing sessions.
In conclusion, the BSUN Pine and KTT Matcha tactile switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Pine switch provides a sharp and direct tactile bump with a clear bottom-out sound, the Matcha switch offers a more mild and stepped tactile feedback with a clacky sound profile. Ultimately, both switches offer unique typing experiences that can be further customized and tailored to individual preferences through various keyboard and keycap combinations. Whether choosing the Pine or Matcha switch, users can expect a tactile typing experience that is both engaging and satisfying.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you value a sharp and direct tactile bump with quick bottom-out, the Pine switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a comfortable and snappy tactility with a cleaner bottom-out sound, the Matcha switch could be more appealing. Additionally, take into account the bottom out force, with the Pine being medium-heavy at 65 grams and the Matcha being light at 45 grams. Ultimately, your decision should be based on which typing feel and sound profile align best with your preferences and typing needs.
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