Bsun Pine vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the BSUN Pine and KTT Phalaenopsis switches both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The BSUN Pine switch is renowned for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing a direct and no-nonsense typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch boasts a light actuation force and a satisfying tactile bump, making typing effortless and enjoyable, while minimizing finger fatigue. While the Pine switch is categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the Phalaenopsis switch is described as 'Bassy', 'Stepped', and 'Thocky'. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Pine and the KTT Phalaenopsis have similar top housings made of polycarbonate, which creates a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, polycarbonate is known for its translucency, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Pine features a nylon bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis has a polycarbonate bottom housing, providing a sharper and clearer sound profile similar to its top housing.
Despite their similar top housings, the Bsun Pine and the KTT Phalaenopsis diverge in their bottom housing materials, resulting in different sound profiles. The Pine's nylon bottom housing offers a duller and rounder sound due to its softer plastic composition, emphasizing a deeper typing experience. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound, in line with its top housing. This contrast highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience of a switch.
Overall, the Bsun Pine and the KTT Phalaenopsis showcase the importance of housing materials in determining sound profiles and typing feel. While both switches share polycarbonate top housings for sharp and crisp sounds, their differing bottom housing materials, nylon and polycarbonate respectively, offer unique characteristics in terms of sound depth and resonance. Understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance can help enthusiasts make informed choices based on their desired typing experience.
Weight
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch. The Pine requires 45 grams of force to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis only needs 37 grams to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option. The Pine would be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Phalaenopsis would be better suited for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches offer different experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose the one that best fits their preferences.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Phalaenopsis has a longer travel distance compared to the Pine. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the typing experience. The shorter travel distance of the Pine may appeal to those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Phalaenopsis may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
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 Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 switches are known for providing a sharp and crisp auditory feedback, making each keystroke distinctly audible. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switches offer a bassy and thocky sound profile, giving a deeper and richer tone during key presses. Depending on personal preference, the Pine switches may appeal to those who prefer a clear and direct sound experience, while the Phalaenopsis switches cater to individuals who enjoy a more resonant and bass-heavy sound.
In terms of feel, the BSUN Pine switches are characterized by their sharp, accented, invigorating, and snappy tactile feedback, offering a strong and distinct tactile bump with each key press. This creates an immersive typing sensation that is both responsive and satisfying. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switches provide a stepped tactile feel, offering a more subtle and mild tactility compared to the Pine switches. This allows for a smoother typing experience with a noticeable actuation force, minimizing fatigue during extended typing sessions.
Overall, the BSUN Pine switches are best suited for those who prefer a direct and sharp tactile bump with a quick bottom-out, along with a distinctive and audible typing experience. Conversely, the KTT Phalaenopsis switches cater to individuals who enjoy a lighter actuation force, a bassy and thocky sound profile, and a more subtle tactile feedback. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style when choosing between the two.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a sharp, direct tactile bump, the BSUN Pine switch would be a great choice for you. The Pine offers a distinct and quick bottom-out experience with clear-cut feedback and fast action, ideal for those who prefer a no-nonsense typing feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more effortless typing experience, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch with its 50g tactile force and translucent design might be more suited to your preferences. The Phalaenopsis switch provides a satisfying tactile bump while minimizing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the kind of typing experience you're looking for.
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