Bsun Guyu vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Bsun Guyu and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that come to mind are the BSUN Guyu linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch. The Guyu switch is renowned for its unique auditory experience, boasting all-POM housings that enhance acoustics and a long pole stem for a bright, crisp bottom-out sound. Its medium weight and smooth keystrokes provide a seamless typing experience with resonant feedback. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch stands out with its under-skirt click mechanism, offering a distinct clicky feel and sound profile that is both crystalline and sparkling. While the Guyu switch is described as 'clacky', 'creamy', and 'silky', the Phoenix switch is characterized as 'crunchy' and 'polished'. Both switches have their own strengths and unique qualities, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
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 Outemu Phoenix, it's apparent that the POM housing of the Guyu offers a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to the sharper and crisper sound profile of the polycarbonate housing of the Phoenix. The use of POM in both the top and bottom housing of the Guyu results in a consistent sound experience throughout key presses, while the Phoenix's mix of polycarbonate top and bottom housings creates a dynamic sound profile with differences in key presses and releases. However, both switches benefit from the unique qualities of their respective housing materials, providing users with a satisfying typing experience.
Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Phoenix's housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switch that is not present in the Guyu. This aesthetic feature gives the Phoenix an edge in customization and personalization options, making it a popular choice for users looking to enhance their keyboard setup. In contrast, the solid color of the POM housing in the Guyu may appeal to those who prefer a more understated and classic look for their keyboard.
Overall, while the Bsun Guyu and the Outemu Phoenix differ in their housing materials and resulting sound profiles, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience. Whether you prefer the deep and muted sound of POM or the sharp and crisp sound of polycarbonate, each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to individual taste in sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
The Bsun Guyu linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch. The Guyu requires 45 grams of force to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option. In contrast, the Phoenix has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, although the actuation force is not specified. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of typing or gaming, the Guyu may be the better choice. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing, the Phoenix could provide a more satisfying experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Bsun Guyu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Guyu has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Phoenix. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. The Guyu could provide a bit more depth and feedback compared to the Phoenix, but ultimately, the difference in travel distance is minimal and may not significantly impact the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Guyu or the slightly shorter travel distance of the Phoenix depends on personal preference for keypress depth and feedback.
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 Outemu Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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 Guyu linear switch is known for its clacky and percussive nature, providing a crisp and bright sound that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offers a crunchy sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences that can add an extra layer of satisfaction to typing.
In terms of feel, the Guyu switch is described as creamy, frictionless, polished, and silky, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with minimal resistance. The Phoenix switch, on the other hand, is also described as polished, providing a sleek typing feel with reduced friction. Both switches aim to provide a smooth and effortless typing experience, ensuring that each keystroke feels satisfying and comfortable.
Overall, while the sound profiles of the BSUN Guyu linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch may differ, both switches prioritize smoothness and responsiveness in their feel. Whether you prefer the clacky brightness of the Guyu or the crunchy crispness of the Phoenix, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Bsun Guyu linear switch or the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences in terms of auditory and tactile feedback. If you value a unique auditory experience with deep acoustics and smooth keystrokes, the Guyu switch with its distinctive sound signature may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a crystalline and sparkling typing feel and sound profile with a clicky mechanism, the Phoenix switch could be more suited to your preferences. Both switches offer different sound and feel characteristics, so it's important to consider what type of typing experience you enjoy the most before making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Bsun Guyu linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch will depend on what qualities you prioritize in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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