Bsun Pine vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the decision often comes down to personal preference and typing style. For those who prefer a tactile feedback and a snappy typing experience, the BSUN Pine switch is a top contender. With its sharp tactile bump and long pole stem, the Pine switch offers a distinct and direct typing sensation that is favored by many. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver switch provides a smooth and linear typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a more consistent key press. While the Pine switch is known for its accents and invigorating feel, the Silver switch stands out for its simplicity and smoothness. 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
45g
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
The Bsun Pine and the Outemu Silver both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances resonance and clarity in the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing. Both switches offer a similar auditory experience thanks to their shared top housing material, highlighting the importance of material choice in determining sound quality.
In contrast, the Bsun Pine and the Outemu Silver differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Pine features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, the Silver also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing the classic nature of this material in switch construction. Despite their differing top housing materials, both switches benefit from the sound-enhancing properties of nylon in their bottom housings, contributing to a unique typing experience for users.
The division of housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches allows for a nuanced typing experience. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when a key is released. This highlights the importance of both top and bottom housing materials in shaping the overall sound and feel of a mechanical switch. Ultimately, the choice of housing materials in switches such as the Bsun Pine and the Outemu Silver plays a crucial role in determining the typing experience for users, showcasing the impact of material selection on switch performance.
Weight
The Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch both have the same actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 65 grams, making them equally medium-heavy switches. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of force required for both switches. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions, these switches may not be the ideal choice. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, both the Pine and the Silver switches offer a satisfying level of resistance. Overall, whether you choose the Pine or Silver switch, you can expect similar results in terms of actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Silver linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Pine offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Silver switch provides a deeper key press experience for those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their travel distances, catering to different preferences and needs. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a shorter, quicker key press or a longer, more pronounced keystroke.
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 Silver 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 distinct and crisp sound with each keystroke, thanks to its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out. In contrast, the Outemu Silver linear switch offers a smoother and quieter typing experience. However, it is essential to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the BSUN Pine tactile switch is characterized by its accented and sharp tactile feedback, providing a satisfying and invigorating typing sensation. Users can expect a snappy and responsive feel with each keypress, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Silver linear switch is not specified in the provided information.
In conclusion, the BSUN Pine tactile switch stands out for its sharp tactile bump, quick bottom-out, and distinct typing experience. The Outemu Silver linear switch, although lacking specific details on feel, is known for its smooth and quiet typing operation. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can cater to different typing styles. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
Therefore, when considering whether to choose the BSUN Pine tactile switch or the Outemu Silver linear switch, it comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a sharp tactile bump and fast action, the BSUN Pine switches would be the ideal choice for you. Their distinct feedback and invigorating feel make them a popular option for those who enjoy a more direct tactile experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and consistent typing feel without any tactile feedback, then the Outemu Silver linear switches would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize tactility and feedback or prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
