Bsun Cliff vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can profoundly impact the typing experience. The Bsun Cliff, a tactile switch, offers a medium level of tactility characterized by its crisp sound signature, making it an invigorating option for those who appreciate feedback with each keystroke. This tactile response can enhance typing accuracy, making it a popular choice for typists and gamers alike. In contrast, the KTT Wine Red switch presents a distinctly different experience; classified as a linear switch, it provides a pillowy light feel coupled with a deep, rich sound profile. This smooth action is ideal for users who prefer a quieter typing experience and the ability to type quickly without the interruption of tactile bumps. Both switches cater to different preferences—whether you seek the satisfying feedback of a tactile switch or the seamless fluidity of a linear option. 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
44g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Cliff and the KTT Wine Red switches exhibit both similarities and differences that influence their sound profiles and aesthetic qualities. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's relative stiffness. This shared composition not only allows for clearer and more resonant sound but also serves an aesthetic purpose; the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for enhancing RGB lighting effects. Consequently, both switches are likely to yield similar auditory experiences when it comes to the top housing, maximizing brightness and clarity, particularly when illuminated.
In contrast to their matching top housings, the bottom parts of the switches diverge significantly in terms of material composition. The Cliff utilizes a nylon bottom housing designed to create a deeper, fuller sound profile. This contrast arises from nylon's softer nature, allowing it to absorb sound more effectively compared to the stiffer polycarbonate used in the Wine Red's bottom housing. As a result, the KTT Wine Red generates a sound profile that mirrors the characteristics of its top housing, maintaining a clearer and crisper auditory experience. This distinction means that while the top of both switches generates similar acoustic results, their performances will differ dramatically when focusing on the bottom housing.
When it comes to the tactile experience of these switches, the differences in material continue to play a significant role. The nylon material of the Bsun Cliff's bottom housing has a more pronounced effect on the sound and feel of the key bottoming out, imparting a more subtle, muted sensation upon keystroke. In contrast, the KTT Wine Red's polycarbonate bottom housing reinforces the clarity of sound experienced when pressing down, providing a more pronounced auditory feedback. Therefore, while both switches may excel in clarity and resonance from their polycarbonate tops, the unique qualities of their bottom housings balance and influence the overall sound profile and tactile response, making each switch distinctive despite their shared traits.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, notable differences emerge in terms of their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cliff switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it well-suited for users who favor longer typing sessions without fatigue. Conversely, the Wine Red switch has a higher actuation force of 44 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial push feel that may appeal to those seeking a firmer typing experience. In this comparison, the Bsun Cliff switch is the lighter option overall, while the KTT Wine Red is the heavier choice. This differentiation means that those who prefer a lighter switch for extended use might lean towards the Cliff, while enthusiasts who enjoy a stronger touch might find the Wine Red to be their preferred switch.
Travel distance
The Bsun Cliff tactile switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Wine Red linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Cliff switch will provide a more responsive feel due to its shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking quick response times. Conversely, the KTT Wine Red offers a more traditional experience with its 4 mm travel distance, catering to users who prefer a more pronounced key press. Both switches cater to different user preferences: the Cliff is better suited for those who enjoy a snappier feel, while the Wine Red is ideal for those who appreciate the deeper, more substantial feedback associated with a longer travel distance.
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 KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71 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 produces a crisp sound signature that enhances the typing experience with its medium tactility. This clear auditory feedback can make typing feel more engaging, as each keystroke is punctuated with a distinct sound that signifies successful actuation. In contrast, the KTT Wine Red linear switch boasts a deep and rich sound profile that leans towards a bassy resonance. The low-pitched timbre of these switches gives them a mellow and satisfying auditory character, reminiscent of deeper musical tones. However, it's important to note that the overall sound experience can be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, so users may experience variations in sound quality.
In terms of feel, the Cliff tactile switch delivers an invigorating typing experience with its pronounced feedback. This switch has a moderate to firm actuation force that creates a snappy and reactive sensation, immersing the typist in their work. The tactile bump is likely to provide a sense of accomplishment with every keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch does not have a defined tactile feedback, which contributes to its pillowy light feel during typing. This smoothness can be appealing for those who prefer a seamless keypress without any bumps, fostering a gliding motion with each stroke.
In summary, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch is ideal for those who appreciate clear auditory feedback and a pronounced tactile experience, while the KTT Wine Red linear switch caters to individuals who prefer deeper sounds and a smoother, more effortless feel. Depending on your typing style and preferences, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your mechanical keyboard experience, so you may choose based on the contrasts in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch will hinge on what you prioritize in your typing experience. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and enjoy a tactile feedback that is invigorating and snappy, the Cliff switch will be your best bet. Its medium tactility and crisp sound signature make it well-suited for rapid typing or gaming, where quick responsiveness is key. On the other hand, if you favor a smoother, more pillowy typing experience combined with a deeper and richer sound profile, opt for the Wine Red switch. The higher actuation force provides a bit more resistance, which can be beneficial for longer typing sessions, offering a comfortable yet satisfying feel. Overall, if you appreciate tactile feedback and a lightweight experience, go for the Cliff; but if you enjoy a linear feel with a captivating sound and a bit more heft, the KTT Wine Red will serve you well.
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