Bsun Kiki Red vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch to the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it becomes apparent that each offers unique benefits for different preferences. The Kiki Red provides a finely-tuned typing experience with a comfortably high-pitched, clacky nuance without being overly loud. It features POM housings and smooth actuation thanks to Ly stems, making it ideal for those who appreciate subtlety in auditory feedback and smooth performance. On the other hand, the Cream Blue switch does not have a specific standout feature mentioned but falls in the clicky switch category. Despite this, it may appeal to individuals who enjoy a more tactile and audible 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and the Outemu Cream Blue switches both focus on creating a pleasing and unique sound profile. While the Kiki Red utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housings, the Cream Blue uses nylon for both components. POM is known to produce a deeper and more muted sound, while nylon creates a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer properties. Both switches aim to provide a tactile and satisfying typing experience, with the choice of housing material influencing the overall sound output.
In terms of sound production, the differences between the POM and nylon housing materials are evident. The POM housing of the Kiki Red emphasizes a deeper tonality in both the top and bottom housings, creating a more subdued typing sound. On the other hand, the Cream Blue's nylon housing absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a fuller and rounder sound profile. Despite the differences in material, both switches excel in delivering a unique typing experience, with the housing material playing a key role in shaping the overall sound output.
While the housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and the Outemu Cream Blue switches differ, their aim to provide a pleasing sound profile remains consistent. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a nuanced typing experience, where the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Whether using POM or nylon, these switches offer a tactile and satisfying typing experience, showcasing the importance of housing materials in creating a unique sound profile for mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch to the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Kiki Red is the lighter of the two. The Kiki Red has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Cream Blue has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Cream Blue requires a stronger push for both actuation and bottoming out compared to the Kiki Red. The lighter actuation force of the Kiki Red may be preferred by those who type for extended periods, while the heavier bottom out force of the Cream Blue may appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the Kiki Red provides a lighter typing feel, while the Cream Blue offers a heavier and more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Kiki Red may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Cream Blue may provide a more satisfying depth to keystrokes. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distance, with the Kiki Red being the shorter option for those seeking quick responses, and the Cream Blue providing a more traditional feel with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance in key presses.
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 Cream Blue 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 sound profile, offering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This creates a crisp and bright auditory feedback that is not overly loud, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a more subtle yet tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch's sound profile is unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. However, both switches allow for customizable sound experiences based on the keyboard and keycap choices.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Kiki Red is described with a variety of descriptors such as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press. These characteristics point to a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance and a light actuation force, enhancing the overall comfort and tactile feel for the user. On the other hand, there is no available information on the feel of the Outemu Cream Blue switches, making it challenging to directly compare the tactile qualities with the Kiki Reds.
In conclusion, the BSUN Kiki Red linear switches offer a well-rounded typing experience with a balanced sound profile and a smooth, tactile feel. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switches are unknown, it can be inferred that they may provide a different typing experience based on their clicky design. Ultimately, both switches offer the potential for a satisfying typing experience depending on individual preferences and keyboard setups. If one enjoys the qualities of the Kiki Reds, a similar experience may be achieved with the Outemu Cream Blues by considering factors such as keycap choices and typing style.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound. If you value a smooth and quiet typing experience with a light actuation force, the Kiki Red may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile and clicky feedback with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Cream Blue could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of feedback you desire from your mechanical keyboard switches.
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