Bsun Pine vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Pine and KTT Pine offer distinct typing experiences catering to different preferences. The BSUN Pine is a tactile switch known for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing direct and no-nonsense tactility. On the other hand, the KTT Pine is a linear switch designed for a smooth and effortless typing experience, with a medium-heavy feel and a factory-lubed finish for minimal friction. While the BSUN Pine is hailed for its accentuated and snappy typing feel, the KTT Pine stands out for its creamy and low-pitched key travel. 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
58g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Pine and KTT Pine both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows light to shine through the housing. In contrast, the Bsun Pine features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the KTT Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and clear sound profile associated with this material.
The choice of housing materials in the Bsun Pine and KTT Pine impacts not only the sound produced but also the overall feel of the switches. With different materials used for the top and bottom housings, the characteristics of each material are divided between the pressing down and letting go of a key. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This division allows for a nuanced typing experience, with the different qualities of polycarbonate and nylon enhancing various aspects of the switch's performance.
Overall, while both the Bsun Pine and KTT Pine share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing, the inclusion of nylon in the bottom housing of the Bsun Pine sets it apart from the KTT Pine. The Bsun Pine offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the sharper and crisper sound profile of the KTT Pine, thanks to the nylon bottom housing. This difference in housing materials showcases how varying materials can impact the overall sound and feel of mechanical switches, providing users with a choice based on their preferences for typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, we see that the Bsun Pine tactile switch is the heavier option with a bottom out force of 65 grams, compared to the KTT Pine linear switch with a bottom out force of 58 grams. Both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of initial key press. The Bsun Pine switch offers a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, making it ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the KTT Pine switch, with its slightly lighter bottom out force, may be preferred by those looking for a lighter typing experience for extended periods of typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the KTT Pine linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Bsun Pine has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the KTT Pine. In general, shorter travel distances are preferred by gamers for faster response times, while longer travel distances can provide a more satisfying key press for some users. Both switches fall within the range of common travel distances, with the KTT Pine being the more traditional choice. 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 Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine 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 tactile switch is described as having a bassy and low-pitched profile, providing a deep and rich tone during key presses. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch offers a smooth and buttery sound due to its factory-lubed finish, resulting in a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal taste and the accompanying keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the BSUN Pine tactile switch is known for its sharp and snappy feedback, offering a distinct and direct tactile bump that is both invigorating and accentuated. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch is described as buttery and creamy, providing a smooth and fluid typing experience with minimal friction for effortless key travel. While both switches offer a satisfying typing sensation, the BSUN Pine switch focuses more on sharp tactility, while the KTT Pine switch prioritizes smoothness and ease of use.
Overall, the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch offer contrasting typing experiences in terms of sound and feel. The BSUN Pine switch provides a sharp and direct tactile feedback with a bassy sound profile, while the KTT Pine switch offers a smooth and buttery typing experience with a creamy sound profile. Depending on whether you prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback or a smoother key travel, both switches cater to specific typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you value a sharp tactile bump, quick bottom-out, and direct tactility, the BSUN Pine switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with minimal friction and effortless key travel, the KTT Pine linear switches might be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so choose based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you.
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