Bsun Kiki Red vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch to the Outemu Black linear switch, a notable difference lies in the typing experience they offer. The Kiki Red switches are renowned for their finely-tuned balance of high-pitched clackiness and smooth actuation, thanks to their POM housings and Ly stems. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switches do not have a specific standout feature but are known for their reliability and durability. The Kiki Red switches are ideal for those who prefer a subtle yet satisfying auditory feedback while the Outemu Black switches are a reliable choice for a consistent typing experience. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and the Outemu Black, it is evident that the Kiki Red features a POM top and bottom housing, while the Black utilizes a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The POM material in the Kiki Red creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, providing a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Black produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is crisp and clear, perfect for those who prefer a more distinct typing sound. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Black contributes to a fuller and rounder sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience.
Despite their differences, both the Kiki Red and the Outemu Black housing materials offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The POM material in the Kiki Red creates a pleasing and unique sound that is deep and muted, ideal for those seeking a softer typing experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Black yields a sharper and crisper sound, perfect for users who prefer a more distinct and resonant typing sound. While the nylon bottom housing of the Black provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, offering a different tactile feel compared to the Kiki Red's housing materials.
Ultimately, the choice between the Bsun Kiki Red and the Outemu Black housing materials comes down to personal preference and typing style. The POM top and bottom housing of the Kiki Red create a unique sound profile that is deeper and more muted, while the polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing of the Black offer a sharper, crisper sound with a fuller feel. Both switches provide distinct typing experiences based on their housing materials, ensuring that users can find the perfect match for their typing needs.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch showcase a clear distinction in weight. The Kiki Red is lighter, with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Black is heavier, requiring 65 grams of force for actuation and 82 grams for bottoming out, giving a more robust and substantial feel to typing. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions may lean towards the Kiki Red, while those seeking a more forceful typing experience may find the Outemu Black more suitable. Ultimately, the weight of the actuation and bottom out forces will play a crucial role in determining which switch is the ideal choice for each individual's typing preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, it is clear that the Kiki Red has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Black has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The 3.6 mm travel distance of the Kiki Red makes it ideal for gamers seeking a faster response time, as shorter travel distances are favored in gaming scenarios. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Outemu Black provides a deeper feel when pressing down on the key, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches boils down to personal preference - whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness with the Kiki Red or prefer a more tactile experience with the Outemu Black.
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 Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 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
When it comes to sound, the Bsun Kiki Red switch is well-regarded for its clacky nature, providing a sharp and snappy sound that is not too loud but still offers a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switch's sound profile is unknown, so it is difficult to directly compare. However, both switches will likely produce a similar sound based on the factors of the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Kiki Red is lauded for its creamy and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and refined feel that enhances the overall typing experience. With a medium-light weighting and all-POM housings, this switch provides a frictionless and silky sensation during actuation. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Black switch is not mentioned, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison in this aspect.
In conclusion, the Bsun Kiki Red switch stands out for its balanced sound profile and smooth typing experience, making it a preferred choice for those who appreciate subtlety in feedback and finesse in performance. While the Outemu Black switch's subjective qualities are not specified, it is highly likely that both switches will provide similar results in terms of sound and feel based on their design and materials. Ultimately, the best choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference and the overall typing experience desired by the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch or the Outemu Black linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a finely-tuned, subtle typing experience with a high-pitched clacky sound, the Kiki Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and prioritize a different typing experience, the Outemu Black switch might be more suitable. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and your own typing habits when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best aligns with your specific needs and preferences.
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