HMX Hibiscus vs. Bsun Tuzi (Bunny)
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Hibiscus and the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) offer distinctive characteristics that cater to different preferences. The HMX Hibiscus is celebrated for its unparalleled smoothness and ultra-light actuation force, providing a typing experience that feels effortless and fluid, while also delivering a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature that many users find delightful. On the other hand, the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) enhances the typing experience with a modified LY stem and a combination of materials—PC top and PA bottom—that aim to achieve an optimal balance of clack and silky smoothness, creating a refined feel with a high-pitched auditory feedback. Both switches cater to enthusiasts seeking a specific tactile and auditory experience, whether you prioritize the lightweight responsiveness of the Hibiscus or the carefully crafted sound profile of the Tuzi. 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
42g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
42g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T3
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Hibiscus and the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny), an interesting distinction arises from the choice of plastics used in the top housing. The Hibiscus utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile. This characteristic is attributed to nylon's softer nature, which inherently absorbs sound waves and results in a more muted acoustic experience. In contrast, the Tuzi (Bunny) features a polycarbonate top housing that contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. Polycarbonate’s stiffness allows for greater resonance, leading to a crisper auditory sensation. Consequently, while the Hibiscus offers a warm and rich sound, the Tuzi (Bunny) provides clarity and definition, showcasing how different top housing materials can significantly influence the overall sound of a switch.
On the other hand, both the HMX Hibiscus and Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) share the same material for their bottom housing—nylon. This commonality results in a consistent experience when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches. As both feature a nylon bottom housing, users can expect a similar auditory response in this respect, characterized by the deeper and fuller sound that nylon is known for. Therefore, while the top housing materials lead to divergent sound profiles, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches present a uniformity in the tactile and acoustic experience when pressing the keys down to the bottom.
Understanding the implications of the differing top and identical bottom housings within the HMX Hibiscus and Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) further illuminates their unique strengths. Since the bottom housing predominantly influences the sound and feel when a key is pressed down, users of either switch will perceive the plush, muffled sensation inherent in nylon. Conversely, the tonal qualities will shift during the release phase, resulting in a dichotomy of sound profiles. Thus, while the Hibiscus offers a rich, warm experience when both keys are pressed down and released, the Tuzi (Bunny) provides exhilarating clarity as the keys return to rest. This interplay between the varying materials underscores how thoughtful switch design can create distinct auditory experiences even within products that share certain components.
Weight
The HMX Hibiscus and the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) linear switches both offer light actuation and bottom out forces, but they differ in their specific measurements. The Hibiscus has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Tuzi (Bunny) boasts a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 42 grams. This makes the Tuzi (Bunny) the lighter switch overall, which may appeal to users who prefer a more effortless typing experience for long hours at work or during extended gaming sessions. In contrast, the Hibiscus is slightly heavier, providing a stronger push feel that some users may find more satisfying. Overall, if users are looking for a switch that requires less force to actuate, they should consider the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny), but if they desire a bit more resistance, the HMX Hibiscus would be the better choice.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) linear switch, it's clear that there is a slight difference between the two. The Hibiscus has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Tuzi (Bunny) features a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Hibiscus the shorter option, offering a quicker bottom-out for those who favor faster response times, which can be particularly advantageous for gamers. On the other hand, the Tuzi (Bunny) with its 3.6 mm travel distance, provides a slightly deeper feel, catering to users who prefer a more pronounced feedback when pressing the key. Both switches fall within the recent trend of shorter travel distances, but if you prioritize a more responsive action, the Hibiscus slightly edges out with its marginally decreased travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
The Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Tuzi (Bunny) for $3.49.
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 HMX Hibiscus switch is celebrated for its satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy audio profile, delivering a lively auditory experience that many typists enjoy. In contrast, the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) switch produces a high-pitched and crisp sound characterized by its sharp, snappy clack. This sound is bright and percussive, making it particularly appealing to those who prefer a more vibrant and high-frequency auditory feedback. Ultimately, while both switches offer distinctive sound signatures, users looking for a lively typing experience will find both to be enjoyable, though the Hibiscus leans towards a more versatile poppy sound.
In terms of feel, the HMX Hibiscus switch is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness, creating a pristine typing experience that many enthusiasts seek out. The Tuzi (Bunny) switch, on the other hand, features a silky texture that enhances the overall typing experience by minimizing resistance during keypresses. While both provide a smooth feel, the Hibiscus offers a slightly more refined experience compared to the silky smoothness of the Tuzi, allowing typists to appreciate the effortless glide of each key press. Nevertheless, both switches cater to those who desire a less resistant and more fluid typing sensation.
In conclusion, both the HMX Hibiscus and Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) linear switches present compelling options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, each with their own unique sound and feel characteristics. The Hibiscus offers a lively and clacky audio profile along with unmatched smoothness, while the Tuzi provides a sharp, crisp sound combined with a silky typing experience. Ultimately, both switches can deliver an exceptional typing experience, and personal preference regarding sound and feel will determine which switch is the right fit for any individual user.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) linear switch, consider your personal preferences regarding typing feel and sound profile. If you prioritize an ultra-smooth typing experience combined with a clacky, poppy sound that adds a certain character to your keystrokes, then the Hibiscus may be the switch for you. Its bottom-out force of 48 grams ensures that while it’s light, it offers satisfying feedback without being too easy to accidentally activate. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a refined and silky feel with a lighter bottom-out force of 42 grams, the Tuzi (Bunny) switch could be your ideal choice. Its combination of a high-pitched, crisp sound and a smooth typing texture creates a uniquely enjoyable experience, particularly if you prefer a more understated auditory profile. As such, choosing between these two switches ultimately boils down to whether you value expressive sound and feedback or an exceptionally refined and quiet typing experience.
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