Bsun Guyu vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the Bsun Guyu and the TKC Kiwi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Bsun Guyu linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch. The Guyu switch is renowned for its unique auditory experience, featuring all-POM housings that deepen acoustics and a long pole stem for a bright, crisp bottom-out sound. With a medium weight and super-smooth keystrokes, typing on these switches feels effortless, providing resonant feedback for a satisfying typing rhythm. On the other hand, the Kiwi switches offer a tactile typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press. These switches deliver a snappy sound profile, enhancing the immersive feel of typing. While the Guyu switch is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Frictionless', the Kiwi switch falls under 'Stepped', 'Low-pitched', and 'Neutral'. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing 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
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Guyu and TKC Kiwi both offer unique housing materials for their switches. The Guyu features POM top and bottom housings, while the Kiwi utilizes UHWMPE for both the top and bottom. The POM material in the Guyu creates a deep and muted sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the UHWMPE material in the Kiwi offers a bright sound signature with resonant clacks, adding an element of liveliness to each keystroke. Despite the differences in sound profile, both switches prioritize creating a pleasant typing experience through the choice of housing materials.
In terms of sound production, the Bsun Guyu's POM housing creates a consistent and pleasing deep sound throughout the keystroke process. Meanwhile, the TKC Kiwi's UHWMPE housing delivers a bright and resonant sound that stands out during both key press and release. The unique characteristics of each material contribute to the overall typing experience, with the Guyu focusing on a deeper tone and the Kiwi emphasizing a brighter sound profile. Despite these variations, both switches aim to provide an enjoyable typing experience through the carefully selected housing materials.
While the Bsun Guyu and TKC Kiwi differ in their choice of housing materials, they both prioritize creating a satisfying typing feel for users. The split between top and bottom housings allows for a nuanced approach to sound production, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound upon key release. Whether it's the POM material in the Guyu for a more muted and deep sound profile or the UHWMPE material in the Kiwi for a bright and resonant sound, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in typing sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Guyu linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, it is evident that the Guyu is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Kiwi's 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Guyu requires 50 grams while the Kiwi needs 67 grams, making the Kiwi the heavier option. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer durations, the Guyu may be the more suitable choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Kiwi due to its heavier bottom out force. Both switches provide different typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to the preferences of different users.
Travel distance
The Bsun Guyu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TKC Kiwi tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Kiwi has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Guyu. The Guyu's 3.6 mm distance falls within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. On the other hand, the Kiwi's 4 mm distance provides a bit more depth and may feel less abrupt to some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Guyu has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Guyu for $3.70.
The TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 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 Bsun Guyu linear switch offers a clacky typing experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound with crisp and bright tones. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch provides a low-pitched sound profile that is more bass-heavy and mellow, creating a neutral and moderate sound suitable for various typing preferences. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences that cater to different preferences, allowing users to choose based on their desired sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Guyu switch is known for its creamy and frictionless typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with minimal resistance. The switch is polished and silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing feel that enhances overall typing ease. In contrast, the TKC Kiwi switch features a stepped and accented tactile feel, offering a two-stage tactile experience that balances between a mild bump and prominent tactility. Additionally, the switch is also polished, ensuring smooth key travel for effortless typing.
Overall, the Bsun Guyu linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch provide different but equally impressive typing experiences in terms of sound and feel. While the Guyu switch offers a clacky sound and creamy feel, the Kiwi switch delivers a low-pitched sound and a stepped, accented tactile experience. Whether you prefer a bright and snappy typing sound or a mellow and bass-heavy tone, and whether you lean towards a smooth and frictionless feel or a two-stage tactile sensation, both switches offer high-quality performance that can enhance your typing sessions. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to your personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the BSUN Guyu linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a unique auditory experience with a bright and crisp sound profile, along with super-smooth keystrokes and medium weight, the Guyu switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, providing a satisfyingly snappy sound profile and a smooth typing experience right out of the box, the Kiwi switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value a linear switch with a distinctive sound signature or a tactile switch with a satisfying bump and snappy sound profile. Both switches offer their own set of unique features, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences and experience.
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