Bsun Cliff vs. Outemu Purple

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the Bsun Cliff and the Outemu Purple, both of which fall into the tactile switch category. The Bsun Cliff is praised for its medium tactility and crisp sound signature, making it an excellent choice for typists who enjoy a satisfying feedback mechanism without too much noise interference. On the other hand, while the Outemu Purple lacks standout characteristics prominently highlighted in reviews, it is often appreciated for its unique feel and affordability, attracting users who may be new to mechanical keyboards and are seeking an accessible entry point. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference regarding tactile feedback and sound preference: the Cliff offers a clear advantage in providing pleasant acoustic feedback, while the Purple serves as a budget-friendly option that still delivers a tactile experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Bsun Cliff Tactile

Outemu Purple Tactile

$2.75

$2.19 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials used in the Bsun Cliff and Outemu Purple switches demonstrate a notable degree of similarity, particularly in their respective top housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate, known for its stiffness, enhances sound clarity and resonance. This shared material choice allows both switches to effectively accommodate RGB lighting, given the translucency of polycarbonate. Consequently, users can expect a comparable visual aesthetic and sound characteristics when utilizing either switch, making them appealing options for those who prioritize both functional and aesthetic aspects in their keyboard builds.

In terms of bottom housing, the comparison remains consistent as both the Bsun Cliff and Outemu Purple utilize nylon. This classic material choice results in a deeper, fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic composition, which absorbs sound more efficiently than harder materials. Both switches' nylon bottom housings contribute to a typing experience characterized by a duller and rounder sound. As such, users can anticipate a similar bottom-out feel and sound across both models, reinforcing the notion that both switches deliver a rich auditory experience through their design choices.

When considering the overall impact of housing materials on typing experience and sound, the differences lie in how each component contributes to the final output. With the top and bottom housings being made of different materials, the polycarbonate in both switches contributes to sound clarity upon key release, while the nylon provides a softer, more muted sound during key presses. Thus, even though both switches share similar materials in their construction, the unique acoustic properties attributed to each material type amalgamate to create nuanced differences in typing experience, ensuring that users can choose a switch that aligns with their desired auditory and tactile preferences.

Weight

The Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch present contrasting actuation forces that cater to different typing preferences. The Cliff switch features a light actuation force of just 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize comfort during long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Outemu Purple switch has a considerably heavier actuation force of 50 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Purple switch is unknown, which makes it difficult to fully assess its typing experience in comparison to the Cliff switch. Consequently, users looking for a lighter feel should opt for the Bsun Cliff, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Outemu Purple, even though its bottom out measurement remains uncertain. This difference in actuation force could significantly influence user preference based on their typing habits and comfort needs.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, a notable distinction emerges. The Bsun Cliff features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Purple has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Outemu Purple is designed for those who appreciate a more significant depth when pressing a key, potentially providing a more tactile experience, whereas the Bsun Cliff's shorter travel distance caters to users seeking faster response times, which is particularly advantageous for gaming. Ultimately, if you prefer a more responsive key feel, the Bsun Cliff would be the better option, while those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke depth might gravitate towards the Outemu Purple.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch is characterized by a crisp sound signature that enhances the typing experience with an audible feedback that many users appreciate. The distinct auditory quality can provide a satisfying confirmation upon keypresses, contributing to a more engaging typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Purple tactile switch does not have a clearly defined sound profile outlined in the existing information, leaving its auditory character somewhat ambiguous. However, it’s important to note that the sound produced by both switches can be influenced by the type of keyboard they are mounted on and the keycap material used, so users can experiment to achieve their preferred sound quality.

When it comes to feel, the Cliff tactile switch offers a medium level of tactility, giving users a noticeable bump during key presses that facilitates a more connected typing experience. This tactile feedback can help improve typing accuracy and overall enjoyment for users who prefer a more pronounced activation point. On the other hand, there is no specific description available for the feel of the Outemu Purple tactile switch, making it challenging to provide a direct comparison in this area. As tactile switches typically fall within a range of tactile experiences, users of the Purple switch may find that it offers a different or more subtle feedback, which can vary widely depending on personal preferences.

Overall, both the Bsun Cliff and the Outemu Purple tactile switches cater to preferences for tactile feedback, though the Cliff is more defined with its medium tactility and crisp sound signature. Without specific details on the Outemu Purple's sound and feel, it could appeal to those seeking an alternative tactile experience. Users looking for auditory satisfaction and tactile feedback might gravitate towards the Cliff, while those who are open to exploring different switch characteristics may find value in trying the Purple. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual typing habits and preferences, and users can expect varied experiences based on their setup and choice of components.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prefer a lighter actuation with a medium tactility and a crisp sound, the Cliff switch may be the ideal choice for you. Its bottom-out force of 45 grams makes it accessible for prolonged typing sessions without fatigue, while its distinct tactile feedback can enhance your typing rhythm and provide satisfying audible responses. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple switch is suitable for individuals who may not prioritize sound and feel in the same way, as detailed specifications for this switch are less clear. Ultimately, if you're looking for a well-defined tactile experience with a satisfying sound profile, the Bsun Cliff is the evident selection. In contrast, if you prefer a switch where the specifics are less critical and simply want something that performs adequately, the Purple might suffice. Therefore, align your preferences with the attributes of each switch to find the best fit for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

Bsun Cliff Tactile

$2.75

$2.19 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Purple Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more