Jerrzi Honey Bean vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Bsun Taichi present two distinct options, each catering to different preferences and environments. The Honey Bean switches are renowned for their light and feathery linear action, which offers a muted yet satisfying typing experience, making them an ideal choice for office settings or any shared spaces where noise reduction is essential. Their easy-to-press nature ensures that long typing sessions remain comfortable and enjoyable. On the other hand, Bsun Taichi switches offer a unique auditory experience with their high-pitched bottom-out sound, thanks to a long-pole stem and extended springs that contribute to a smooth and stable feel during use. While the Taichi may appeal to those who appreciate a more engaging click, the Honey Bean excels in providing a quiet and unobtrusive tactile experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Bsun Taichi switches, it is clear that each uses a different combination of plastics, leading to distinct acoustic properties. The Honey Bean features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, which is known for producing a deep and relatively muted sound profile. This material is adept at dampening frequencies, resulting in a pleasing auditory experience that leans toward warmth. In contrast, the Taichi opts for a polycarbonate top housing, which is recognized for its ability to create a sharper and more resonant sound. Being a stiffer material, polycarbonate emphasizes higher frequencies and ensures a crisper auditory output. This contrast in materials sets the stage for two very different sound signatures that are tied to the inherent properties of each plastic.
Examining the bottom housings of the two switches reveals a further divergence in design philosophy and acoustic response. The Honey Bean employs a POM bottom housing, mirroring its top housing and contributing to a cohesive sound profile that prioritizes a fuller, deeper sound. This choice reinforces the muted characteristics of the switch, delivering a rounded bottom-out feel that many users appreciate for its comforting feel during typing. Conversely, the Taichi incorporates a nylon bottom housing, a classic choice that complements its polycarbonate top. Nylon offers its own unique sound profile that is deeper and richer, thanks to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound. As a result, while the Taichi may have an overall clearer sound due to its top housing, the nylon bottom helps to maintain a pleasing fullness that balances the sharper notes of polycarbonate.
Ultimately, the differing housing materials of the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Bsun Taichi ensure that typists will experience varied acoustic and tactile feedback. However, if one were to mix and match the housings, certain similarities in sound characteristics could arise. For example, if the POM and nylon materials were to be combined in a switch, the outcome could produce a nuanced sound profile that balances the deeper qualities of POM with the cushioned response of nylon. Understanding how each housing affects the switch's performance helps users make informed choices about which model will best suit their preferences and typing style, regardless of the material differences.
Weight
When comparing the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch with the Bsun Taichi linear switch, it is evident that both switches have fairly similar actuation forces, with the Honey Bean requiring 42 grams while the Taichi requires slightly less at 40 grams. This minor difference in actuation force suggests that users may experience a slightly lighter keystroke feel with the Taichi switch, making it perhaps a better option for extended typing sessions or gaming. However, both switches boast a bottom out force that is currently unavailable, preventing a direct comparison in that regard. Since neither switch provides a bottom out force measurement, we can't determine which one might feel more substantial at the end of a keystroke. With the Honey Bean being marginally heavier in actuation force, those who prefer a lighter typing experience might gravitate towards the Taichi switch, while those who enjoy a slightly firmer push may appreciate the Honey Bean's feel.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Bsun Taichi linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on the keys of these switches, the Honey Bean provides a bit more depth compared to the Taichi. For gamers or users who favor a quicker response time, the shorter travel distance of the Taichi might be more appealing, as it allows for faster actuation. Conversely, those who enjoy a more satisfying keystroke with a pronounced depth might lean toward the Honey Bean, which offers a deeper travel experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two may depend on personal preference regarding how abrupt or hearty the key presses feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Honey Bean has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey Bean for $3.59.
The Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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 Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch stands out for its muted nature, offering a softer and quieter typing experience compared to traditional switches. This characteristic makes the Honey Bean particularly advantageous in environments where noise can be disruptive, such as offices or shared spaces. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi switch is celebrated for its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, produced by its long-pole stem and extended springs. This distinctive auditory profile provides a satisfying auditory feedback for those who appreciate a bit of acoustic personality in their typing, although it may not be ideal for environments where low noise levels are a priority. Ultimately, if noise levels are a critical factor for the user, the Honey Bean will prove to be the quieter option, while the Taichi caters to those who enjoy a more pronounced sound.
When it comes to the feel of each switch, the Honey Bean excels with its easy-to-press mechanism, requiring minimal effort for actuation and thereby enhancing comfort during extended typing sessions. Its feathery touch significantly reduces finger fatigue, making it ideal for users who type for long periods or engage in gaming. The tactile experience is responsive yet gentle, leading to a satisfying and fluid typing rhythm. On the other hand, the specific feel of the Bsun Taichi switches remains unclear, as there is limited information provided. This makes it challenging to directly compare the tactile experience between the two; however, users seeking a smooth action typical of linear switches can expect that both switches will deliver a comfortable typing experience, albeit with potentially differing levels of resistance and feedback.
Overall, the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch offers a lightweight and silent typing experience, making it an excellent choice for those prioritizing discretion and comfort during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi switch provides a more engaging sound profile while maintaining a soft action. Each switch presents its unique benefits, and users are likely to find satisfaction in either, depending on their priorities regarding sound and feel. For those seeking a quiet and effortless experience, the Honey Bean is the clear choice, while those who appreciate auditory feedback might lean towards the Taichi.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, your specific needs and preferences play a crucial role. If you find yourself in a shared or office environment where minimizing noise is a top priority, the Honey Bean switch excels with its muted sound profile and easy-to-press action. It's an excellent choice for those who value a light, responsive feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you seek a more unique auditory experience, the Taichi switch offers a captivating high-pitched bottom-out sound that could enhance your typing enjoyment. While specific force values are unavailable, the Taichi's design focuses on smoothness and stability, making it suitable for users who appreciate an engaging tactile experience and rapid actuation. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize a silent, comfortable typing experience or a more dynamic auditory feedback in your mechanical keyboard setup.
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