Bsun Kiki Red vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch to the Outemu Brown tactile switch, it is evident that each offers a unique typing experience tailored to different preferences. The Kiki Reds from BSUN are praised for their finely-tuned feel, providing a comfortable high-pitched and clacky nuance without being excessively loud. With all-POM housings and Ly stems for smooth actuation, these switches are ideal for enthusiasts who value subtlety in auditory feedback and exceptional performance. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown switch remains a mystery in terms of its reputation, but is likely to offer a tactile typing experience. While the Kiki Red may appeal to those seeking a smooth and clacky typing experience, the Outemu Brown might cater to users who prefer a tactile feedback. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.20 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
The housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and Outemu Brown switches offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences. The POM top housing of the Kiki Red creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Brown produces a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visual element to the switch. On the other hand, the Kiki Red's POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Brown absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Despite their differences, both the Kiki Red and Brown switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials. The POM top housing of the Kiki Red and the polycarbonate top housing of the Brown each provide a distinct sound profile when compared. The use of different materials in the top and bottom housings of the switches splits the qualities between the press and release of the keys, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing affecting the sound when releasing a key. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and Outemu Brown switches play a significant role in determining the sound profile and tactile experience of each switch. The POM and polycarbonate housings offer distinct qualities, with the Kiki Red providing a deeper and more muted sound, while the Brown offers a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of the Brown contributes to a fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound than the POM bottom housing of the Kiki Red. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is lighter in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Brown tactile switch. The Kiki Red has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Brown has an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Kiki Red offers a smoother and lighter typing experience, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing for extended periods. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, which may be preferred by users looking for a more tactile and responsive keyboard. Overall, the difference in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches offers users the option to choose between a lighter or heavier typing experience based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Brown tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Kiki Red's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, while the Brown's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth to typing or gaming experience. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference. If you enjoy a shorter, more responsive feel, the Kiki Red may be the better option, but if you prefer a more substantial key press, the Outemu Brown could be the way to go. Either way, both switches offer a unique typing experience that will cater to different preferences.
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 Brown 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 linear switch is known for its clacky nature, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown tactile switch has no specific sound descriptor provided. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Kiki Red switch is praised for its creamy and frictionless experience, offering a smooth and buttery typing sensation that is effortless and polished. This switch provides a silky typing feel that minimizes resistance and enhances overall smoothness. In contrast, the Outemu Brown switch does not have any specific feel descriptors mentioned.
In conclusion, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch stands out for its clacky sound profile and creamy, frictionless tactile experience, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate subtle auditory feedback and a refined typing feel. The comparison with the Outemu Brown tactile switch highlights the importance of considering both sound and feel preferences when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, as these qualities can greatly impact the overall typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing feel and sound profile.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you value a smooth and easy-to-press switch with a high-pitched, clacky sound, the Kiki Red could be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with tactile feedback, the Brown switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to prioritize what aspects of a keyboard switch are most important to you in order to make the best decision for your typing needs.
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