Bsun Hutt vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Bsun Hutt and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Hutt and Kailh Sage are two popular options that offer unique typing experiences. The Bsun Hutt is a tactile switch known for its medium-heavy spring and prominent tactile bump, creating a balanced sound profile that appeals to many users. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage is a clicky switch that provides a distinct typing experience with a heavy weight and sharp clickiness. While the Hutt switch is described as 'Snappy', 'Accented', and 'Resonant', the Sage switch is labeled as 'Crunchy' and 'Invigorating'. Decision-making can depend on personal preferences such as typing feel, sound, and responsiveness. However, diving deeper into the specifics of each switch's characteristics can help you make the best choice for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
49g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20.5mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Bsun Hutt and the Kailh Sage utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, they may differ in other aspects of their design.
On the other hand, both the Hutt and Sage feature nylon bottom housings, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This bottom housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch when pressed down, contributing to a unique typing experience for users of both switches.
In switches where the top and bottom housings differ, such as the Bsun Hutt and Kailh Sage, the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. While the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This distinction in housing materials highlights the importance of considering the overall switch design for a specific typing experience desired by users.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Hutt tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch differ significantly. The Hutt has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Sage's unknown actuation force. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Hutt is 49 grams, which is also lighter than the Sage's heavier 70 grams bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended use, the Hutt would be the better option, while the Sage would be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Hutt tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Kailh Sage clicky switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular for their quick response times. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance offered by the Bsun Hutt for its faster keystrokes. On the other hand, some users may find the slightly longer travel distance of the Kailh Sage to provide a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Hutt has an MSRP of $6.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hutt for $5.39.
The Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25 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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Hutt tactile switch offers a resonant typing experience with a higher-pitched and clean sound profile, providing an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch produces a crunchy sound reminiscent of stepping on crispy autumn leaves. The Sage switch offers a more distinct clicky typing sound compared to the Hutt switch, which might appeal to those who enjoy a sharper and more pronounced auditory feedback during typing sessions.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, both the Hutt and Sage switches are described as invigorating and sharp, providing a high feedback intensity and a prominent tactile bump with each keypress. The Hutt switch also offers an accented feel, providing a medium level of tactile feedback that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Both switches offer a responsive and snappy typing experience, with a moderate to firm actuation force that enhances the overall typing sensation.
Overall, the Bsun Hutt tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Hutt switch is known for its medium-heavy spring, balanced sound profile, and pronounced tactile bump, creating a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Sage switch stands out with its heavy weight, sharp clickiness, and distinct clicky typing sound. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide satisfying typing experiences that are sure to enhance your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a light bottom out force, a balanced sound profile, and a distinctive tactile bump, the Bsun Hutt tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, a sharp clicky typing experience, and a heavier weight, then the Kailh Sage clicky switch would be more suited to your preferences. Consider these factors along with your typing style and preferences when choosing between these two switches for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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