Bsun Cliff vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Cliff and Cherry MX Orange offer distinct experiences tailored to different user preferences. The Bsun Cliff is celebrated for its medium tactility and crisp sound signature, making it ideal for typists who enjoy feedback without the overwhelming noise often associated with clicky switches. This makes it a great choice for those seeking an engaging typing experience, especially in shared workspaces. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange switches deliver a smooth, linear action that is particularly favored by gamers and individuals seeking a quieter operation. Revived from the original MX Orange switches due to popular demand, the MX2A version offers refined performance and reliability, making it a compelling choice for fast-paced gaming sessions or prolonged typing without distraction. Both switches cater to specific needs, but as preferences in tactile feedback and sound vary, it’s essential to consider which features resonate most with your typing or gaming style. 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
37g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Cliff and the Cherry MX Orange switches, a key difference lies in their top housing materials: the Cliff utilizes polycarbonate, while the MX Orange features nylon. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffer characteristics, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile during key presses. This makes the Cliff particularly suited for users who prefer a more pronounced acoustic feedback, especially when RGB lighting is involved, as the translucent nature of polycarbonate enhances the visual experience. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the MX Orange creates a more muted and fuller sound, owing to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. Thus, while both switches aim to provide ergonomic and auditory satisfaction, their choice of top housing results in distinctly different acoustic performances.
Looking at the bottom housings of both switches reveals a notable similarity, as both the Bsun Cliff and Cherry MX Orange use nylon for this component. This shared material guarantees that both switches deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, reinforcing the acoustic experience across the board. As nylon is a classic choice for switch housing, the absorption properties inherent to this material mean that both switches can effectively dampen sound, creating a satisfying and rounded auditory feedback when bottoming out. As a result, the sound produced when pressing down will feel consistent between the two models, with the deep notes emanating primarily from the nylon material.
Ultimately, the differences in top housing materials create a unique blend of sound profiles for each switch, while maintaining consistency in the bottom housing. The Bsun Cliff's polycarbonate top creates a crisp, high-pitched sound that complements RGB lighting aesthetics, whereas the Cherry MX Orange's nylon top offers a softer, fuller tone that might appeal to users who prefer a more muted auditory experience. However, with both switches sharing the benefits of nylon in their bottom housings, users can expect comfort in their typing experiences, where the deeper sound characteristics on the actuation feel similar. Thus, while the switches exhibit different properties, they can deliver satisfying results based on their respective pairings of materials.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, a notable difference lies in their actuation forces. The Cliff tactile switch has an actuation force of 37 grams, making it a lighter option for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for long hours of work or gaming. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, appealing to those who favor a more substantial push feel when typing. Regarding their bottom out forces, the Cliff switch's force is measured at 45 grams, which reveals the amount of pressure needed when the key is fully pressed down. Conversely, the bottom out force for the MX Orange is unavailable, making direct comparison difficult. However, the presence of a bottom out force in the Cliff indicates a complete keystroke experience, whereas the lack of this information for the Cherry MX Orange leaves some ambiguity. Overall, those who appreciate lighter switches may gravitate towards the Bsun Cliff, while users seeking a firmer feel might opt for the Cherry MX Orange.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, it is clear that there is a noticeable difference. The Bsun Cliff tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cherry MX Orange switch features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This indicates that the Cliff switch is the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel that may appeal to gamers who prefer quicker key presses. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange, with its 4 mm travel distance, provides a heftier depth that some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on personal preference: one may opt for the Bsun Cliff for a snappier response or the Cherry MX Orange for a more traditional and robust typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
The Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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 Cliff tactile switch is known for its crisp auditory feedback, which can be engaging and satisfying as you type. Its medium tactility often produces a distinctive sound that enhances the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switch also offers an appealing sound signature, though the specific characteristics of its sound are less well-documented. It’s important to remember that sound is influenced by various factors, including the keyboard design and the material of the keycaps, which can create a unique auditory experience for both switches.
Turning to feel, the Cliff switches provide a medium tactile sensation, which strikes a balance between noticeable feedback and smoothness, making it suitable for both typing and gaming. Users often appreciate this blend, as it provides clear actuation points without being overly harsh. The Cherry MX Orange switches revive the original tactile experience, yet they lack detailed descriptions of their tactility. However, given similarities with other Cherry switches, one might expect a plush and smooth action that suits a variety of uses, though definitive comparisons are challenging without additional information.
Overall, both the Bsun Cliff and Cherry MX Orange switches offer engaging feedback and auditory experiences that appeal to different preferences. The Cliff prioritizes a crisp sound and medium tactility that can enhance productive typing sessions, while the MX Orange aims to channel the nostalgia of the original Cherry MX series with its revamped features. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, you may find that either switch meets your needs, or you could achieve similar results by pairing either with compatible keyboards and keycaps that suit your style.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you appreciate a tactile feel with a notable feedback upon key activation, the Cliff switch is an excellent choice; its medium tactility combined with a crisp sound signature can enhance both typing and gaming experiences, making it suitable for those who enjoy sensation and auditory feedback as they type. The 45-gram bottom out force also ensures a light yet satisfying keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and unimpeded typing experience, the Cherry MX Orange may be more aligned with your needs. While the MX Orange is reissued to meet high demand, its linear characteristics allow for fast and fluid key presses, ideal for gaming or those who spend long hours typing without interruption. In summary, opt for the Cliff if you value tactility and sound, whereas the MX Orange is better suited for those who favor a linear, quiet typing environment.
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