Bsun Kiki Red vs. Outemu Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Bsun Kiki Red and the Outemu Cream Yellow are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct typing experiences for users. The Kiki Red, a linear switch, is praised for its finely tuned typing experience, striking a balance between a high-pitched, clacky nuance without being excessively loud. With all-POM housings and ly stems for smooth actuation, the Kiki Red provides a tactile experience that is favored by enthusiasts who appreciate subtle auditory feedback and performance finesse. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow, a tactile switch, lacks specific characteristics in the provided information but is categorized as clacky, creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy to press. While both switches have their unique qualities, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style when choosing between them. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
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
Both the Bsun Kiki Red and the Outemu Cream Yellow utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, with the Kiki Red featuring POM housings and the Cream Yellow featuring nylon housings. While both materials are known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, the POM housings of the Kiki Red are described as creating a relatively more muted sound compared to the rounder and duller sound produced by the nylon housings of the Cream Yellow. This difference in sound profile could potentially make the typing experience on each switch unique, catering to different preferences.
In terms of feel, the POM bottom housing of the Kiki Red and the nylon bottom housing of the Cream Yellow are likely to influence the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches. POM is known for creating a pleasing sound profile, while nylon is praised for its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This suggests that the typing experience on the Kiki Red may have a more muted and deep bottom-out compared to the Cream Yellow, which might offer a fuller and rounder bottom-out experience. These differences in bottom housing materials could contribute to variations in the overall typing feel between the two switches.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and the Outemu Cream Yellow vary, they both aim to enhance the typing experience through the unique sound profiles they offer. The split qualities brought by the different housing materials to each switch demonstrate how the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when a key is released. Despite these differences, both switches are designed to provide tactile and audible feedback to users, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of the choice between POM or nylon housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, it is evident that the Kiki Red is lighter in both aspects. The Kiki Red has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Cream Yellow has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The Kiki Red offers a lighter feel, making it ideal for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience for extended periods of time, such as during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow provides a slightly heavier touch, which may be preferred by individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel. Both switches offer distinct experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their specific preferences. Ultimately, the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Kiki Red make it a suitable option for those who prioritize a lighter typing experience, while the Cream Yellow offers a slightly heavier touch for a different typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the travel distance of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch is 3.3 mm. Both switches have shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance, making them ideal for fast-paced actions like gaming. Gamers may prefer the Kiki Red switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, providing quicker response times. On the other hand, those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes may opt for the Cream Yellow switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness and tactile 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 Outemu Cream Yellow 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 distinctive clacky sound, providing a sharp and percussive auditory feedback that is not overly loud. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch is unknown. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Kiki Red switch is praised for its creamy and frictionless typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless keystroke that feels polished and silky. These switches are easy to press, providing a responsive and low-impact typing feel. In comparison, the tactile sensation of the Outemu Cream Yellow switch is unknown. If the Cream Yellow switch offers similar qualities of smoothness and ease of typing as the Kiki Red, users can expect a similarly enjoyable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is favored for its clacky sound profile and creamy, frictionless feel, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts who value subtlety in auditory feedback and performance finesse. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch are not specified, if it offers a similar smooth and effortless typing experience as the Kiki Red, users can expect a comparable level of satisfaction. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when considering whether to choose the BSUN Kiki Red linear switch or the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, you should first determine your preference for typing experience. If you value a smooth and buttery typing experience with a medium-light weighting and subtle auditory feedback, the Kiki Red switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a quiet typing experience without specific tactile characteristics mentioned, the Cream Yellow switch may be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound, as both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.