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Bsun Kiki Red vs. Outemu Gold

An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When comparing the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it is evident that they offer distinct typing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Kiki Reds from BSUN are praised for their finely-tuned typing experience, offering a comfortably high-pitched, clacky nuance without being excessively loud. With all-POM housings and Ly stems for smooth actuation, these switches are ideal for those who appreciate subtle auditory feedback and performance finesse. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold switch does not have any specific features highlighted, leaving more room for exploration. While the Kiki Reds are favored for their unique sound signature and medium-light weighting, the Outemu Gold switch may appeal to those seeking a different tactile experience. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine the best switch for your specific preferences.

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

1.80 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 Bsun Kiki Red and Outemu Gold switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Kiki Red features a POM top housing, producing a deeper and muted sound, while the Gold utilizes a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the transparent nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects, making it a popular choice for those looking to customize their keyboard setup.

On the other hand, the Kiki Red's POM bottom housing mirrors the sound profile of its top housing, creating a consistent deep and muted sound. In contrast, the Gold's nylon bottom housing provides a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This difference in bottom housing material can influence the overall typing experience, as the bottom-out sound and feel will be impacted by the bottom housing material of the switch.

While the Kiki Red and Outemu Gold switches offer contrasting housing materials, the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. Both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, whether it be a deeper and muted sound from the POM housing of the Kiki Red or the sharper and crisper sound from the polycarbonate housing of the Gold. Regardless of the choice, the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switch when typing, making them an important consideration for keyboard enthusiasts.

Weight

The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a great choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Gold clicky switch offers a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. Those who enjoy a stronger push when typing may find the Gold switch to be more suitable for their preferences. Both switches offer different weight options, with the Kiki Red being the lighter option and the Gold being the heavier choice, allowing users to choose based on their individual typing preferences. Overall, while the actuation and bottom out forces differ between the two switches, users can achieve similar results depending on their weight preference.

Travel distance

The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Outemu Gold clicky switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Kiki Red offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which is favored by many gamers for its speed and accuracy. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch provides a deeper and more satisfying keystroke with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - if you prioritize speed and efficiency, the Kiki Red is the way to go, but if you prefer a more substantial feel when typing, the Outemu Gold clicky switch may be the better option for you.

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 Gold 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 high-pitched, clacky nuance that strikes a balance between being comfortably audible without being excessively loud. The clicky Outemu Gold switch, on the other hand, does not have any specific sound descriptors available. Both switches will provide differing auditory experiences, with the Kiki Red offering a crisp and percussive sound while the sound of the Gold switch remains a mystery, possibly dependent on other factors such as keyboard and keycap choices.

When it comes to feel, the Bsun Kiki Red is described as offering a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press typing experience. These descriptors indicate that the Kiki Red switch provides a smooth, responsive, and comfortable typing feel that minimizes resistance and enhances overall typing efficiency. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold switch does not have any specific feel descriptors available, leaving its tactile experience unknown. If the Gold switch has similar characteristics to the Kiki Red based on its qualities, users can expect a smooth and effortless typing experience with a balance of tactile feedback and ease of actuation.

Overall, while the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is lauded for its unique sound profile and exceptional smoothness during actuation, the Outemu Gold clicky switch remains a mystery in terms of its auditory and tactile qualities. Both switches offer potential benefits depending on the user's preferences, with the Kiki Red catering to enthusiasts who appreciate subtlety in auditory feedback and finesse in performance. In conclusion, choosing between the Bsun Kiki Red and Outemu Gold switches boils down to personal preference and desired typing experience, with the Kiki Red being a safe bet for those seeking a well-rounded and refined typing experience.

Conclusion

Thus, when considering whether to choose the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch or the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it ultimately depends on your preference for typing experience. If you value a subtle, high-pitched, clacky sound with smooth actuation and a medium-light key feel, then the Kiki Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that offers a unique tactile and auditory feedback with a medium key feel, the Gold switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound.

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