TTC Honey vs. Bsun Kiki Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey and the Bsun Kiki Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Honey linear switch to the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, it is evident that both offer unique qualities that cater to specific preferences. The TTC Honey is best known for its smooth and creamy feel, along with a deep and pleasant sound profile. On the other hand, the Bsun Kiki Red provides a finely-tuned typing experience with a comfortably high-pitched, clacky nuance and medium-light weighting. While the Honey is categorized as 'Subdued' and 'Buttery', the Kiki Red falls under the categories of 'Clacky' and 'Easy-to-press'. Each switch has its own distinct characteristics that may appeal to different users based on their preference for sound, feel, and actuation. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Honey and the Bsun Kiki Red, we see that both switches have different top housing materials. While the Honey features a polycarbonate top housing known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, the Kiki Red's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can drastically alter the typing experience for users, with the Honey offering a crisper sound and the Kiki Red providing a smoother, more subdued sound. However, both materials cater to different preferences, with polycarbonate being ideal for those who prefer a sharper sound, and POM appealing to those who enjoy a deeper, more resonant tone.
On the other hand, both switches incorporate the same material for their bottom housing. The polycarbonate bottom housing in the Honey and the POM bottom housing in the Kiki Red both contribute to creating a clear and resonant sound profile. This similarity in material for the bottom housing means that users can expect consistent sound quality when pressing down on the switches. However, the impact of the bottom housing on the overall sound and feel of the switch may vary slightly between the two models, as polycarbonate is known for a crisper sound while POM produces a more muted tone. Despite this difference, the bottom housing material provides stability and durability to both switches.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Honey and the Bsun Kiki Red ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. While the Honey's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharp and precise sound, the Kiki Red's POM top housing provides a more subdued and deep tone. Both switches share a similar bottom housing material, ensuring consistent quality and durability. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, more muted tone, both the Honey and the Kiki Red offer unique typing experiences tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Honey linear switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, it is evident that they have the same actuation force of 42 grams and bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that both switches offer a light typing experience, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch when typing. The actuation force is the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the pressure needed to press the key all the way down. In terms of weight, both switches are equal, which may appeal to users who value consistency in their typing experience. Overall, these switches provide a comfortable typing feel that is ideal for long typing sessions or extended gaming sessions.
Travel distance
The TTC Honey linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. In terms of comparison, both switches offer relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Kiki Red for faster response times, while those who prefer more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the Honey switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference for either a quicker, more responsive typing experience or a more deliberate keystroke with a slightly longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
The Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
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 TTC Honey switch offers a subdued sound profile, providing a more subtle and dampened typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Kiki Red switch produces a clacky sound, defined by a sharp and snappy auditory feedback. The choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Honey switch catering to those who prefer a quieter typing experience, while the Kiki Red switch is suitable for individuals who enjoy a more distinct and bright sound when typing.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the TTC Honey and Bsun Kiki Red switches are described as creamy, frictionless, and polished. This indicates that both switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience, with reduced friction and effortless key travel. Additionally, the Kiki Red switch is noted for its silky feel, providing an exceptionally smooth typing sensation. The subtle differences in feel between these switches may be subtle and personal preference-driven, with both switches offering a high level of comfort and ease while typing.
Considering all the available information, both the TTC Honey linear switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch are solid options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Honey switch may be favored for its subdued sound profile, the Kiki Red switch stands out with its clacky sound signature. In terms of feel, both switches offer a smooth and polished typing experience, with the Kiki Red switch adding an extra layer of silkiness to its feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to individual preferences in sound and feel, ensuring that each user can find a switch that best suits their typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Honey linear switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing feel and sound profile. If you prefer a smooth and creamy typing experience with a subdued sound, then the Honey switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a finely-tuned typing experience with a high-pitched, clacky sound and a balance of smoothness and medium-light weighting, then the Kiki Red switch would be more suitable for your needs. Both switches offer a light bottom out force of 50 grams, so the decision ultimately comes down to your personal preferences for feel and sound. Consider how you like your keys to feel and sound when making your decision between these two switches.
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