Bsun Pine vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Pine and Jwick Taro are two popular options that offer unique typing experiences. The BSUN Pine switches are praised for their sharp tactile bump and fast action, providing a direct and no-nonsense tactility that is favored by many users. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro switches offer a cozy typing experience with a medium level of tactility and crisp clacks. While the Pine switches are categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the Taro switches are labeled as 'Neutral', 'Buttery', and 'Stepped'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences, so it ultimately 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
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
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Pine and the Jwick Taro are quite similar in terms of using polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in the top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the nylon bottom housing, both switches also share the same material, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound for both switches.
While both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, there are subtle differences in how these materials impact the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Bsun Pine's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound when keys are released, while its nylon bottom housing enhances the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the Jwick Taro's polycarbonate top housing also contributes to a sharp and clear sound upon key release, while its nylon bottom housing adds to a deeper and fuller sound during typing. These distinctions in how the top and bottom housing materials affect the sound profile show how subtle variations can influence the overall typing experience.
Ultimately, while the housing materials of the Bsun Pine and Jwick Taro both contribute to a similar overall sound profile, the distribution of these materials between the top and bottom housings offers a unique typing experience for each switch. The combination of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing in both switches showcases a balance of sharp, crisp sounds and deep, full tones. Whether it be the impact on key release or bottom-out sound and feel, the choice of housing materials in each switch plays a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, we can see that the Pine has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Taro, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Pine having 65 grams and the Taro having 67 grams. This means that while the Pine may require less force to trigger a keystroke, both switches provide a medium-heavy typing experience when bottoming out. In terms of weight, some users may prefer the Pine for its lighter actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions, while others may gravitate towards the Taro for a slightly more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Taro switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Pine switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the Pine switch to be too abrupt, while others may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Taro switch for a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key responsiveness.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro switch also provides a neutral sound profile, ensuring a pleasant typing experience without being too loud or too quiet. The sound produced by both switches will ultimately depend on other factors such as the keyboard they are installed in and the keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Pine switch offers an invigorating and sharp tactile experience, with a distinct and strong tactile bump that is highly noticeable with each keypress. These switches are known for their snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation for the user. In contrast, the Jwick Taro switch provides a buttery and stepped tactile feel, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a mild level of tactility. Users can expect a comfortable and gentle typing experience with the Taro switches.
Overall, both the Bsun Pine and Jwick Taro switches offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences with their own set of subjective qualities. While the Pine switch provides a sharper and more pronounced tactile bump, the Taro switch offers a smoother and more subdued tactile feel. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the direct and sharp tactility of the Pine switch or the comfortable and gentle keystrokes of the Taro switch. Ultimately, both switches are excellent options that will deliver satisfying results for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a sharp and distinct tactile bump, a quick bottom-out, and a fast action, the BSUN Pine tactile switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-level of tactility with a cozy typing experience and snappy feedback, the Jwick Taro tactile switch may be more fitting for your preferences. Both switches offer unique characteristics and it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style when deciding between the two.
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