Bsun Kiki Red vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Kiki Red and the KTT Matcha offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Kiki Red is a linear switch known for its comfortably high-pitched and clacky nuance, providing a smooth typing experience with medium-light weighting for subtle auditory feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha is a tactile switch that boasts a snappy tactility and clean bottom-out sound, perfect for those who appreciate a more pronounced tactile feel. Each switch has its own set of characteristics that make it appealing to different users. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Kiki Red and the KTT Matcha both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Kiki Red utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. In contrast, the Matcha uses polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While POM provides a pleasing and unique sound, polycarbonate offers a clearer and more resonant sound, especially suitable for switches with RGB lighting.
However, when comparing the top housing materials of the two switches, a noticeable difference arises. The Kiki Red's POM top housing produces a deeper sound, while the Matcha's polycarbonate top housing generates a sharper and crisper sound. This distinction in sound profiles can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users. Additionally, the choice of housing material for the top housing is crucial for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual effect.
Interestingly, the bottom housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and the KTT Matcha mirror their top housing counterparts. Both switches utilize POM for the bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and muted sound profile. Conversely, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Matcha contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound, which can affect the tactile feedback and overall typing experience for users. This split in housing materials between the top and bottom further emphasizes the importance of each component in creating a unique sound profile.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, it is evident that both switches offer a light typing experience. The Kiki Red has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Matcha has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Both switches require a lighter touch compared to other switches on the market, making them ideal for users who prefer a softer typing experience. The Kiki Red is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force, but the difference is minimal. Those who enjoy a light and responsive typing feel will find both switches to be suitable options. In this case, users can expect similar results from both switches due to their comparable actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it slightly shorter than the KTT Matcha tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Kiki Red offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers who prioritize speed and responsiveness may prefer the Kiki Red, while those who enjoy a deeper keystroke feel may lean towards the Matcha. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and key feedback.
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 KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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, both the Bsun Kiki Red and the KTT Matcha switches are described as producing a clacky sound when pressed, giving them a sharp and snappy quality. This makes them both ideal for those who enjoy a distinct and percussive auditory feedback while typing. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used, so individual experiences may vary.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Kiki Red switch is known for its creamy and frictionless typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with minimal resistance and effortless key presses. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha switch is described as having a stepped tactile feedback, providing a two-stage feel that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. This tactile response gives users a comfortable and snappy typing experience with a prominent amount of tactility. Both switches cater to different preferences in typing feel, with the Kiki Red focusing on smoothness and ease of pressing, while the Matcha offers a more pronounced tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While both switches produce a clacky sound, the Kiki Red emphasizes a creamy and frictionless typing experience, while the Matcha provides a stepped tactile response for a more pronounced feedback. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, users can choose between the two switches to suit their needs. Overall, both switches promise a high-quality typing experience with their respective subjective qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch or the KTT Matcha tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you value a smooth, subtly tactile feel and enjoy a high-pitched, clacky sound with medium-light weighting, then the Kiki Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a snappy, stepped tactile feel with a clean bottom-out sound and a lighter actuation force, then the Matcha switch might be more suited to your liking. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired level of tactility when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences and enjoy the enhanced typing experience they provide.
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