Outemu Crystal vs. Bsun Hutt
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Bsun Hutt switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Crystal, a linear switch, to the Bsun Hutt, a tactile switch, it's important to note the key differences in typing experience they offer. The Crystal switches provide a unique linear typing experience with a medium-light weight and a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the Hutt switches feature a prominent tactile bump and medium-heavy spring for a distinctive and enjoyable typing experience with a balanced sound profile. Each switch has its own set of characteristics that may appeal to different preferences. The Crystal may be preferred for its elastic feel and medium-light weight, while the Hutt may be favored for its tactile bump and balanced sound profile. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
49g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20.5mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Crystal and the Bsun Hutt both feature polycarbonate top housings, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the switch. In contrast, the Bsun Hutt's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer and sound-absorbing properties. This creates a more muffled and rounder sound compared to the clarity of polycarbonate.
While both the Crystal and the Hutt utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, they differ in their bottom housing materials. The split between polycarbonate and nylon housings impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Crystal's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the clear and resonant sound profile associated with the material, while the Hutt's nylon bottom housing creates a softer and more muted sound during key presses. The choice of bottom housing material can significantly alter the typing experience, with the bottom-out sound and feel largely influenced by the properties of the material.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Crystal and the Bsun Hutt will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel. The Crystal's use of polycarbonate in both top and bottom housings ensures a consistent sharp and clear sound profile throughout key presses. In contrast, the Hutt's combination of polycarbonate and nylon creates a dynamic typing experience, with a distinction between the crisp sound of the top housing and the deeper sound of the bottom housing. Whether one values clarity and resonance or prefers a softer and fuller sound, both switches offer unique typing experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Bsun Hutt tactile switch, there are noticeable differences between the two. The Crystal switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Hutt's 40 grams, making it a bit heavier. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Crystal switch requires 55 grams while the Hutt switch needs 49 grams, making the Crystal switch heavier in that aspect as well. The Crystal switch can be classified as medium-light in terms of both actuation and bottom out force, while the Hutt switch is considered light. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience might lean towards the Hutt switch, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel might opt for the Outemu Crystal switch due to its slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Hutt tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Bsun Hutt tactile switch the shorter of the two options. The Outemu Crystal switch, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more satisfying and deeper keystroke feel for those who prefer a bit more depth in their typing experience. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Bsun Hutt switch may appeal to gamers or those looking for a faster response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Hutt has an MSRP of $6.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hutt for $5.39.
The Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a chirpy and high-pitched sound profile, providing a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Bsun Hutt tactile switch produces a resonant and clean sound that is sharp and immersive. Both switches have balanced sound profiles, but if you prefer a sharper sound, the Crystal may be the better choice, while the Hutt offers a richer auditory experience.
As for feel, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is known for its polished and smooth typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Bsun Hutt tactile switch is described as snappy, invigorating, sharp, and accented, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a strong tactile bump for a lively and immersive typing sensation. If you prefer a smoother typing experience, the Crystal may be more suitable, while the Hutt provides a more tactile and responsive feel.
Considering the available information, if you are looking for a linear switch with a chirpy sound profile and a polished feel, the Outemu Crystal switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a resonant sound profile and a snappy, invigorating feel, the Bsun Hutt switch would be a fantastic option. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them ultimately depends on your personal typing style and sound preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Bsun Hutt tactile switch, consider the characteristics that best align with your preferences. If you value a unique linear typing experience with medium-light bottom out force and a neutral sound profile, the Crystal switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a distinctive tactile typing experience with a light bottom out force and a balanced sound profile, the Hutt switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, it all comes down to your personal typing style and preference for sound and feel. Choose wisely and enjoy your mechanical keyboard experience!
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