Bsun Guyu vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the Bsun Guyu and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to explore are the Bsun Guyu and the Durock Piano, both linear switches offering distinctive features and experiences. The BSUN Guyu linear switches are revered for their unique auditory experience, characterized by all-POM housings that deepen acoustics and a long pole stem for a brighter, crisper bottom-out sound. With a medium weight and super-smooth keystrokes attributed to a high-grade UPE stem, typing on the Guyu switch is effortless and resonant. On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switches stand out for their proprietary material blend, giving them a pleasant typing experience with a gliding push feel and deep, creamy sound signature. While the Guyu switch is described as 'clacky', 'creamy', and 'snappy', the Piano switch is categorized as 'bassy' and 'silky'. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and what qualities you prioritize in a keyboard switch; 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the Bsun Guyu and the Durock Piano utilize POM material for their housing, with the POM blend used in the Piano being a proprietary mix. The POM top housing of both switches is said to create a pleasing and deep sound profile, although the specifics of the blend in the Piano remain unknown. The deeper and more muted sound produced by the POM top housing of the Guyu is likely to be somewhat similar to the unique and satisfying sound profile offered by the POM blend top housing of the Piano.
Similarly, the POM bottom housing of both switches contributes to the overall sound profile, with the Guyu producing a deep and pleasing sound while the Piano's proprietary POM blend also offers a deep and satisfying sound profile. When using switches with different top and bottom housings, such as these two, it is important to consider how each component will impact the sound and feel of typing. The bottom housing plays a key role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
In essence, the Bsun Guyu and the Durock Piano share similarities in their housing materials, both utilizing POM for their top and bottom housings. While the specifics of the POM blend used in the Piano are undisclosed, it is likely to offer a similar level of depth and satisfaction in sound production as the POM material in the Guyu. Understanding how each housing material impacts the overall sound profile and typing experience is crucial when selecting switches for a mechanical keyboard setup.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Guyu linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, it is evident that the Guyu is lighter in both aspects. The Guyu has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Piano has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Guyu make it ideal for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Piano provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force required.
Travel distance
The Bsun Guyu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock Piano linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Piano switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Guyu switch. The 3.6 mm travel distance of the Guyu switch falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a favorite among gamers looking for a faster response time. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Piano switch offers a bit more depth, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying keystroke. Both switches provide different options for individuals seeking a specific travel distance, with the Guyu offering a shorter distance and the Piano offering a longer one. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the 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 Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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 offers a clacky experience with sharp and snappy sounds, providing a crisp and bright auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch produces a more bassy sound profile, delivering a deeper and richer tonality during key presses. Both switches offer unique sound signatures that can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the BSUN Guyu switch is described as creamy, frictionless, polished, and silky, offering an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience. This is achieved through the application of lubricant and specific materials, resulting in a glide-like sensation when typing. Similarly, the Durock Piano switch also boasts a frictionless and silky feel, ensuring smooth key travel and minimal resistance during typing sessions. Both switches provide a premium typing experience with subtle differences that cater to individual preferences.
In conclusion, the BSUN Guyu linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile and creamy, frictionless feel, while the Durock Piano linear switch offers a bassy sound and a similarly smooth and silky typing experience. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, offering a balance of unique qualities that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. Whether opting for the Guyu or the Piano, users can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to their preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Bsun Guyu linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, consider the unique qualities of each. If you are looking for a switch that offers a bright and crisp bottom-out sound with smooth keystrokes, the Guyu may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a deep, creamy sound signature and a gliding push feel, the Piano could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for sound and typing feel. Both switches offer a high-quality typing experience, so it's important to consider which qualities align best with your typing style and preferences.
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