Bsun Pine vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come to mind are the Bsun Pine and the Outemu Silent Grey. The Bsun Pine switch is renowned for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing a direct and distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey switch offers a quiet and highly tactile keystroke, perfect for those who value both satisfaction and silence. While the Pine switch is known for its invigorating and snappy feel, the Silent Grey switch prioritizes a smooth keystroke and quiet operation. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so ultimately the choice comes down to personal preference. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Bsun Pine and the Outemu Silent Grey feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in housings results in a more clear and resonant sound due to its relatively stiffer nature. Additionally, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. While both switches share this top housing material, their overall sound profiles may vary based on other factors such as the bottom housing material.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Bsun Pine and the Outemu Silent Grey both utilize nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics, as it absorbs more sound and produces a duller and rounder sound. By utilizing nylon in the bottom housing, both switches are able to enhance the typing experience and create a more satisfying sound profile. Despite both switches sharing this bottom housing material, differences in the overall typing experience may still be present due to other factors such as stem materials.
Overall, while the Bsun Pine and the Outemu Silent Grey share similar housing materials in terms of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, the overall typing experience and sound profiles may differ due to various factors such as stem material, spring weight, and overall design. The top housing material will have a significant impact on the sound when letting go of a key, while the bottom housing material will affect the bottom-out sound and feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, the actuation force of the Pine is 45 grams, while the Silent Grey is slightly heavier at 50 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force of 65 grams, making them fairly similar in this aspect. The Pine is lighter in actuation force, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing or gaming for extended periods. On the other hand, the Silent Grey provides a slightly heavier actuation force for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a medium-heavy bottom out force, providing a satisfying typing experience for different preferences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, it is clear that the Pine has a shorter travel distance at 3.4 mm, while the Silent Grey boasts a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Pine's 3.4 mm travel distance falls on the shallower end of traditional distances, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for quicker response times. On the other hand, the Silent Grey's 4 mm travel distance offers a deeper key press feel that some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. 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 Outemu Silent Grey comes in at $3.10 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
In terms of sound, the BSUN Pine tactile switch is known for producing a clear and audible click with each key press, giving users a satisfying auditory confirmation of their actions. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch lives up to its name by providing a nearly silent typing experience, making it a great choice for those looking to avoid noisy keyboards. Both switches offer different but equally appealing sound profiles, catering to the preferences of different users.
When it comes to feel, the BSUN Pine tactile switch is often described as accentuated, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, providing a tactile typing experience that is both responsive and engaging. On the other hand, information about the feel of the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch is not available. However, based on the fact that it is a highly tactile switch, users can expect a pronounced tactile bump and a smooth keystroke that enhances typing accuracy and comfort.
Overall, the BSUN Pine and Outemu Silent Grey tactile switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Pine switch provides a sharp and distinct tactile bump with a clear click sound, making it ideal for those who prioritize tactility and feedback. On the other hand, the Silent Grey switch offers a quiet typing experience with a pronounced bump, perfect for individuals looking for a tactile switch without the noise. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out with clear-cut feedback, the Pine switches would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quiet and highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke, the Silent Grey switches would be more suitable. Both switches have a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is medium-heavy, so your decision should be based on the type of feedback and sound you prefer while typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you find most appealing.
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