Bsun Kiki Red vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch to the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, there are distinct differences in their typing experiences. The Kiki Reds from BSUN are celebrated for their finely-tuned balance between a comfortably high-pitched, clacky nuance without being overly loud. With all-POM housings and Ly stems for smooth actuation, these switches offer a subtle auditory feedback and a smooth performance, perfect for those who value subtlety in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue switch lacks specific known characteristics but falls into the clicky switch category. While the Kiki Red may be preferred for its smoothness and nuanced sound, the Milk Blue may appeal to those who enjoy a more tactile and audible typing 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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 Milk Blue switches both contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches, but they do so in slightly different ways. The POM top housing of the Kiki Red creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Milk Blue produces a sharper and crisper sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly impact the typing experience for users depending on their preference for a more subdued or lively sound.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Kiki Red utilizes POM which also creates a deep and pleasing sound profile. On the other hand, the Milk Blue features a nylon bottom housing that elicits a fuller and rounder sound. The nylon material's ability to absorb more sound compared to POM results in a sound that is more dull and muffled. This difference in sound profile between the two bottom housing materials can play a significant role in the overall typing experience and feel of the switches.
While both switches feature different top and bottom housing materials, the impact of each material on the sound profile is split between pressing down and letting go of a key. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the sound profile of the switches can help users make an informed decision based on their preferences for typing experience and sound.
Weight
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is lighter than the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Kiki Red has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option. On the other hand, the Milk Blue has an actuation force of 50 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming, the Kiki Red would be the better choice as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. However, if someone prefers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Milk Blue may be preferred despite the unknown bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for actuation and bottom out force preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Milk Blue has a longer travel distance compared to the Kiki Red. The difference may seem small, but it can impact the typing experience significantly. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Kiki Red, while those who enjoy a more in-depth typing experience may opt for the longer travel distance of the Milk Blue. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches depends on personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the individual. In terms of comparing the travel distance, the Kiki Red offers slightly shorter travel than the Milk Blue, providing a quicker keystroke response, while the Milk Blue offers a bit more depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel.
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 Milk 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 provides a clacky nuance that is comfortably high-pitched, offering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch does not have a specific description available, but clicky switches are generally known for their crisp and percussive sound when typing. Both switches can provide an auditory experience that is tailored to different preferences, with the Kiki Red offering a more nuanced and subtle sound compared to the potentially louder and more pronounced click of the Milk Blue.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Kiki Red switch is commonly described as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with minimal resistance and effortless key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue switch does not have a specific feel description available, but clicky switches typically offer a tactile feedback known for the audible click sound and potentially more tactile bump during actuation. While the exact feel of the Milk Blue switch may vary, it is likely to provide a more pronounced tactile response compared to the smoother actuation of the Kiki Red.
Overall, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch offer different sound and feel characteristics tailored to individual preferences. While the Kiki Red provides a nuanced and smooth typing experience with a clacky sound, the Milk Blue may offer a more tactile response with a crisp click sound. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, users can choose between the two switches to customize their mechanical keyboard setup to suit their typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a finely-tuned typing experience with a comfortably high-pitched, clacky nuance, smooth actuation, and medium-light weighting, then the Kiki Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky switch with sharp and snappy sound when pressed, the Milk Blue could be the perfect fit. Consider your preference for auditory feedback, smoothness during typing, and actuation force when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, choose the switch that best complements your typing preferences and enhances your overall typing experience.
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