Bsun Pine vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the BSUN Pine and Durock T1 mechanical keyboard switches, both belonging to the tactile switch category, there are distinct differences in their characteristics. The BSUN Pine switches are acclaimed for their sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing users with clear-cut feedback and fast action. On the other hand, the Durock T1 offers a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. While the Pine switch is described as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the T1 is categorized as 'Stepped', 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Accented', and 'Polished'. Ultimately, each switch has its unique qualities and appeal, but to make an informed decision, it is essential to delve deeper into their specific features and attributes.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the Bsun Pine and Durock T1 utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to other materials. This stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects to shine through, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the switches.
In contrast, the bottom housing material differs between the two switches, with the Bsun Pine housing using nylon and the Durock T1 using polycarbonate. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate. This means that the typing experience on switches with nylon bottom housings may feel softer and quieter compared to switches with polycarbonate bottom housings.
Overall, while both switches have polycarbonate top housings that contribute to a similar sound profile, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of the typing experience. The utilization of nylon in the Bsun Pine creates a softer and more muted sound compared to the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate of the Durock T1. Ultimately, the combination of materials in the housing of a switch plays a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, it is evident that they both fall under the category of medium-heavy switches. The Bsun Pine has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Durock T1 has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 67 grams. In terms of weight, the Bsun Pine is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force, while the Durock T1 is heavier when it comes to bottom out force. This difference in weight may appeal to different preferences among users. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Bsun Pine for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Durock T1 for a more substantial typing experience. In both cases, users can expect similar results in terms of key actuation and bottoming out, with the main distinction lying in the overall weight of the switches.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, which is shorter than the Durock T1 tactile switch with a travel distance of 4mm. 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 T1 provides a deeper press for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Both switches offer a different tactile experience based on their travel distance, so choosing between the two ultimately 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 Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 offers a unique experience with a sound profile that is likely sharp and distinct, given its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out design. In contrast, the Durock T1 switch is described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound, which typically provides a bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for various typing environments. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel, the BSUN Pine switch is described as being accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, all of which contribute to a tactile typing experience with pronounced feedback and a crisp tactile bump. On the other hand, the Durock T1 switch is characterized as stepped, accented, and polished, offering a unique tactile sensation with two distinct stages and a smooth key travel due to refined finishing or factory lubrication. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience with their respective tactile qualities, catering to users who appreciate different levels of feedback and response.
In conclusion, while the BSUN Pine switch and the Durock T1 switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel, they both excel in providing a satisfying typing experience for users who prefer tactile switches. Whether you prefer the sharp tactility of the Pine switch or the stepped feel of the T1 switch, both options are likely to deliver a tactile typing experience that meets your preferences and needs. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a sharp and direct tactile bump with quick bottom-out, opt for the BSUN Pine. On the other hand, if you prefer a more comfortable typing feel with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of falling rain, the Durock T1 may be more your style. Additionally, if you favor a more accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy feel, the Pine may be the better choice for you. If you prefer a stepped, accented, and polished feel, the T1 might be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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