Bsun Guyu vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Bsun Guyu and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Guyu and the Cherry MX Red mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that both switches offer unique features catered to different preferences. The Bsun Guyu is renowned for its all-POM housings that create a distinct auditory experience, while the Cherry MX Red is praised for its slightly heavier feel and deeper sound profile. The Guyu's medium weight and smooth keystrokes provide an effortless typing experience with resonant feedback, appealing to those who prioritize acoustics and a smooth glide. On the other hand, the MX Red offers a robust typing experience with a satisfying depth in sound, ideal for users seeking responsiveness and a solid feel. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Guyu and the Cherry MX Red, it is evident that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Guyu features a POM top housing, known for creating a pleasing and unique sound profile on the deeper side, while the MX Red uses a nylon top housing which also produces a deep and fuller sound. However, the POM material is described as more muted, whereas the nylon material absorbs more sound, creating a rounder and duller sound.
When looking at the bottom housings of these switches, the contrast continues. The Guyu also has a POM bottom housing, offering a similar sound profile to its top housing with a deep and muted tone. Similarly, the MX Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, further enhancing the deep and full sound profile that nylon is known for. Both materials play a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch when pressed.
Overall, while the materials used for the top and bottom housings may differ between the Bsun Guyu and the Cherry MX Red, they both result in switches that produce a deep and pleasing sound profile. The POM and nylon materials each have their unique qualities that contribute to the overall typing experience, with POM being more muted and nylon providing a fuller sound. Whether it be the distinct sound when pressing down on a key or the reverberation upon release, both switches offer a satisfying auditory experience thanks to their carefully chosen housing materials.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Guyu linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch reveals some interesting differences. In terms of actuation force, both switches have a force of 45 grams, meaning that they would provide a similar level of sensitivity when it comes to triggering a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Bsun Guyu switch requires 50 grams of force, whereas the Cherry MX Red switch has an unspecified amount. This suggests that the Bsun Guyu switch would provide a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Cherry MX Red switch. This could be beneficial for those who prefer a more substantial push feel while typing. On the other hand, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Cherry MX Red switch with its potentially lighter bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirement.
Travel distance
The Bsun Guyu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cherry MX Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Cherry MX Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Bsun Guyu. The 0.4 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and performance of the keyboard. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Bsun Guyu switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Cherry MX Red. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and 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 Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 Guyu linear switch is known for its clacky and bright bottom-out sound that results from the POM housing and long pole stem combination, providing a crisp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red linear switch offers a thocky and deep sound profile with a low-pitched tone, delivering a satisfying auditory depth during typing. Both switches offer distinct sound qualities, with the Guyu being more bright and clacky while the MX Red leans towards a deeper and richer tone.
Moving on to the feel, the Bsun Guyu linear switch is described as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy, offering a smooth, buttery, and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red linear switch is noted for its textured feel, which indicates noticeable friction when pressed, providing a different tactile sensation compared to the Guyu. Despite this difference, both switches aim to offer a fluid and smooth typing experience, with the Guyu focusing on smoothness and the MX Red providing a textured feedback to the user.
In conclusion, the Bsun Guyu linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. The Guyu excels in providing a bright and clacky sound paired with a creamy and frictionless feel, while the MX Red offers a deeper and thocky sound with a textured tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the user's preferences for sound profile and typing feel, but rest assured, both switches will deliver a quality typing experience.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Bsun Guyu linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for sound and feel. If you are looking for a unique auditory experience with a bright, crisp bottom-out sound and super-smooth keystrokes, the Bsun Guyu linear switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a classic Cherry switch known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, offering a robust typing experience with responsiveness and satisfying auditory depth, then the Cherry MX Red linear switch might be more suited to your taste. Consider your typing style, preferences for sound and feel, and overall typing experience when making your decision between these two switches.
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