Bsun Kiki Red vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the TKC Kiwi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Kiki Red and the TKC Kiwi offer distinctive typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Kiki Red switch is praised for its finely-tuned nature, striking a balance between a comfortably high-pitched, clacky nuance and smooth actuation thanks to its all-POM housings and Ly stems. This switch is ideal for enthusiasts who value subtlety in auditory feedback and finesse in performance. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi switch is designed to provide a tactile typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press. With a snappy sound profile and factory lubrication for smoothness, the Kiwi switch offers an immersive typing experience right out of the box. Each switch has its own strengths and qualities that cater to different preferences, 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
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Kiki Red features POM top and bottom housings, which create a deep and muted sound profile when typing. In contrast, the TKC Kiwi utilizes UHWMPE top and bottom housings, offering a bright and resonant sound signature. This results in a noticeable difference in sound experience between the two switches, with the Kiki Red providing a more subdued typing sound compared to the Kiwi's more vibrant clacks.
Despite the differences in sound profile, both the Kiki Red and the Kiwi utilize unique housing materials that contribute to the overall typing experience. The POM housings of the Kiki Red are known for their pleasing sound and deeper tone, while the UHWMPE housings of the Kiwi offer a bright and resonant sound when typing. While the materials may differ, both switches provide a distinct sound profile that appeals to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
When comparing the top and bottom housings of the switches, it is important to note how each material affects the overall sound and feel of typing. The bottom housing of a switch has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. In the case of the Kiki Red and the Kiwi, the differences in top and bottom housing materials contribute to the unique sound profiles of each switch, offering users a variety of options to choose from based on their typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, it is evident that the Kiki Red is the lighter option. The Kiki Red has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a light switch. On the other hand, the Kiwi has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, classified as medium-heavy. The actuation force of both switches is quite similar, so users can expect comparable results in terms of triggering keystrokes. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Kiwi requires a more substantial push, providing a different typing experience compared to the lighter Kiki Red. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it slightly shorter than the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of what is considered normal for mechanical keyboard switches, with the Kiwi being closer to the more traditional 4 mm distance. The Kiki Red's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or those looking for a quicker response time, while the Kiwi's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper keystroke. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 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 Kiki Red linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed, giving a crisp and percussive auditory feedback. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch boasts a low-pitched sound with a neutral tone, providing a bass-heavy and mellow sound that is suitable for various purposes. The Kiki Red offers a higher-pitched and clacky sound, while the Kiwi delivers a more bass-heavy and immersive typing experience, depending on personal preference and typing environment.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is lauded for its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press qualities. These characteristics offer a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance and smooth key travel, ultimately enhancing the overall typing feel and reducing finger fatigue. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch features a stepped, accented, and polished feel, providing a tactile bump at the top of each key press without being overwhelming or subtle. This gives a more nuanced and responsive typing experience with a prominent amount of tactility.
In conclusion, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Kiki Red provides a clacky sound with a creamy and frictionless typing feel, while the Kiwi offers a low-pitched sound with a stepped and accented tactile feel. While they cater to different preferences, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience with their unique characteristics. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the BSUN Kiki Red linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a smooth and subtle auditory feedback with a light actuation force, the Kiki Red would be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium to medium-strong tactile bump with a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, the Kiwi switch would be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
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