Bsun Kiki Red vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Bsun Kiki Red and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features to enhance your typing experience. The Kiki Red switch provides a finely-tuned typing experience with a comfortably high-pitched, clacky nuance that is not excessively loud. The all-POM housing and Ly stems contribute to a unique sound signature and smooth actuation, while the medium-light weighting adds to the tactile experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch is known for its silent operation, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you based on your specific preferences and requirements.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
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 the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean offer distinct sound profiles due to their different compositions. The Kiki Red, with its POM top and bottom housing, creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean, featuring a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing, produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. The POM material in the Kiki Red contributes to a unique and pleasing sound profile, while the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Dustproof Silent Ocean offers a more clear and resonant sound experience.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Dustproof Silent Ocean allows for a translucent design that is ideal for RGB lighting, giving it a more visually appealing look compared to the Kiki Red. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Silent Ocean creates a fuller and deeper sound profile, enhancing the typing experience with a duller and rounder sound. The combination of different housing materials in each switch provides a balanced mix of qualities that impact both the sound and feel of the typing experience.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean offer distinct sound profiles, they both aim to enhance the typing experience in their own unique ways. Whether it be the deep and muted sound of the POM housing in the Kiki Red or the sharper and crisper sound of the polycarbonate housing in the Dustproof Silent Ocean, users can expect a satisfying sound experience with either switch. The combination of different materials in the top and bottom housing of each switch allows for a well-rounded sound profile that affects both the bottom-out and release sound when typing.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, it is evident that the Kiki Red is lighter in both categories. The Kiki Red requires 42 grams of actuation force and 50 grams of bottom out force, providing a relatively light typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean requires 45 grams of actuation force and 65 grams of bottom out force, making it a medium-heavy option. Those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Dustproof Silent Ocean, while those who enjoy a lighter touch may prefer the Kiki Red. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to the preferences of different users.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Kiki Red has a longer travel distance compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean. The Kiki Red provides a bit more travel distance, which could result in a slightly different typing experience compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean. However, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, so you can expect similar results in terms of keystroke feel and response. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing experience.
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 Dustproof Silent Ocean 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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched noise when pressed, providing a crisp and percussive auditory feedback that is not overly loud. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch's sound qualities are unknown. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also vary depending on other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Bsun Kiki Red switch is described as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press. These qualities indicate that the switch offers a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance, enhanced smoothness, and reduced friction for effortless keystrokes. Additionally, the switch is highly responsive while requiring minimal force to activate, making typing comfortable and reducing finger fatigue. On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch is unknown.
Overall, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch excels in providing a balanced typing experience with a unique sound signature and a smooth tactile feel. Its medium-light weighting, all-POM housings, and Ly stem contribute to its remarkable performance, making it a preferred choice for enthusiasts who value subtlety in auditory feedback and finesse in typing. While the sound and feel of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch remain unknown, it is possible that based on the qualities of the Bsun Kiki Red switch, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch or the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and enjoy a high-pitched, clacky sound with smooth actuation, the Kiki Red might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force and are looking for a silent typing experience, the Dustproof Silent Ocean could be the switch to go for. Consider your desired sound profile, tactile feel, and typing experience to make an informed decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing needs.
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