Bsun Cliff vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice can significantly influence your typing experience, and two notable contenders in the realm of tactile and linear switches are the Bsun Cliff and the Gateron Type L. The Cliff is celebrated for its medium tactility and crisp sound signature, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy tactile feedback during their typing sessions. This switch offers a satisfying sensation that can enhance typing accuracy and provide a more engaging experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L introduces a lighter touch, requiring only 45g to bottom out, and is part of the innovative "Project Rehash" / SLAY series, which revitalizes classic keyboard experiences with modern enhancements. Known for its subdued, deep sound profile and feathery actuation, the Type L is ideal for those who prefer smooth, linear keystrokes without the tactile bump. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, making them appealing to various users. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Cliff and the Gateron Type L offer distinct auditory experiences due to their differing materials used in their top housings. The Cliff utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is primarily attributed to polycarbonate's stiffer properties, which enhance clarity and resonance during keypresses. Conversely, the Type L's top housing is made from nylon, a classic material known for its sound-absorbing abilities. The use of nylon results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, providing a softer and more subdued auditory feedback. Consequently, while both switches serve different auditory preferences, the contrast in sound profiles illustrated by their top housing materials can significantly alter the typing experience.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Bsun Cliff and Gateron Type L share similarities, as both utilize nylon in this component. The consistent use of nylon in their bottom housings means that both switches will provide a deep and full sound, absorbing sound waves and resulting in a muted auditory feedback. This is beneficial for individuals who prefer a rounder sound profile when typing. In this respect, both switches offer a similar tactile experience due to the characteristics of their nylon bottom housings, allowing users to enjoy that fuller sound regardless of the variation in the top housing materials.
Ultimately, the interaction between the top and bottom housing materials of each switch directly influences the overall typing experience. In the case of the Bsun Cliff, the polycarbonate top results in a high-pitched sound during release, while the nylon bottom provides depth during the actuation. Meanwhile, the Gateron Type L, with its purely nylon setup, offers a consistently deep sound throughout the keystroke. Therefore, while the two switches could deliver similar results in terms of bottom-out sound through their shared nylon bottom housing, the differences in the top housing materials lead to distinct sound characteristics. Users can thus choose based on their preference for a sharper or fuller sound profile while typing.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, both options exhibit quite similar actuation and bottom out forces, making them notable for users who prefer lighter switches. The Cliff tactile switch has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Type L features an actuation force of 38 grams and the same bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that, despite being slightly different in actuation force, both switches bottom out at the same weight, which provides a consistent tactile response when pressing down fully. Overall, users who favor a lighter typing experience, suitable for extended use during work or gaming sessions, will find both options appealing, as they offer comparable results in terms of force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, a clear distinction emerges: the Cliff features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Type L has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Bsun Cliff the shorter option, appealing to those who prefer quicker key presses, such as gamers seeking rapid response times. In contrast, the Gateron Type L, with its longer travel distance, may offer a more traditional and satisfying depth, which some users appreciate for a more gradual and tactile experience. Thus, if you favor a more responsive feel, the Bsun Cliff may be the preferable choice, whereas the Gateron Type L might be better suited for those who enjoy a more 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 Gateron Type L comes in at $4.70 per 10 switches.
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 stands out with its crisp sound signature, offering a more pronounced auditory feedback upon actuation. This makes it an appealing choice for users who appreciate an audible click as they type or game, reinforcing a tactile experience. In contrast, the Gateron Type L presents a sound profile that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum, characterized by a neutral and somewhat subdued quality. While the Type L isn't completely silent, its dampened sound is less intrusive and offers a more gentle auditory experience, making it suitable for use in quieter environments, such as offices or shared spaces. Both switches have their unique characteristics, but the acoustic environment will largely depend on the choice of keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Cliff tactile switch provides a medium level of tactility, which many users find satisfying, giving a clear indication of actuation while typing. This can enhance typing accuracy for those who enjoy a more traditional tactile experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L switch is designed to be exceptionally light and easy to press, requiring only 45g of force to bottom out. This feathery feel reduces finger fatigue, making it ideal for prolonged use in typing, gaming, or working scenarios. While the tactile feedback of the Cliff may appeal to those who prefer a tactile sensation, the effortless actuation of the Type L caters to those looking for a smooth and low-impact typing experience.
In summary, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch offers a crisp sound and a moderate tactile feel, which is ideal for those who enjoy interactive feedback while typing. The Gateron Type L, with its deeper sound profile and incredibly light actuation, prioritizes comfort and ease of use over tactile feedback. Depending on personal preference and use case, both switches provide distinct experiences that can be tailored to suit individual needs. If you prefer sound and feel characteristics that align closely with either switch, you'll have solid options to enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch largely hinges upon your preferences for tactile feedback and sound profile. If you appreciate a more pronounced feel and sound while typing or gaming, then the Cliff is an excellent choice with its medium tactility and crisp auditory feedback, making each keystroke feel satisfying and responsive. On the other hand, if you're looking for something subtly smoother and quieter for a serene typing experience, especially if you're in shared spaces or plan to use your keyboard for extended periods, the Gateron Type L is your go-to. Its feathery and easy-to-press characteristics not only enhance comfort by reducing finger fatigue but also contribute to a more subdued sound, perfect for work or late-night gaming sessions. Ultimately, assess your typical use cases—be it casual typing, gaming, or professional work—and let your personal comfort and typing style guide you to the ideal switch for your mechanical keyboard.
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