Bsun Kiki Red vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch to the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, it is important to note the distinct characteristics of each. The Kiki Reds offer a finely-tuned typing experience with a comfortably high-pitched, clacky nuance without being excessively loud. The all-POM housing and Ly stems contribute to a unique sound signature and smooth actuation, making them a preferred choice for those who value subtlety in auditory feedback and finesse in performance. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean switch does not have specific information available about its characteristics, which may make it harder to determine its ideal usage. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
55g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the Bsun Kiki Red and Outemu Ocean housing materials, it is evident that they each offer unique sound profiles due to the materials used. The Kiki Red features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Ocean's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. The translucency of the polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting, making it a great choice for those looking to customize the look of their keyboard. On the other hand, the Kiki Red's POM bottom housing also contributes to its deep sound profile, while the Ocean's nylon bottom housing provides a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer nature.
Despite the differences in the top and bottom housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and Outemu Ocean, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches impacts the typing experience in distinct ways. The bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. This division of qualities allows for a diverse typing experience based on the choice of housing materials used in each switch.
Overall, whether choosing the Bsun Kiki Red with its POM housing or the Outemu Ocean with its polycarbonate and nylon materials, users can expect a satisfying and unique sound profile with each switch. While the Kiki Red offers a more muted and deeper sound due to its POM materials, the Ocean provides a sharper and crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. Both options cater to different preferences and styles of typing, showcasing the importance of housing materials in creating a personalized keyboard experience.
Weight
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Outemu Ocean tactile switch which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Kiki Red requires 50 grams of force to fully press down, while the bottom out force for the Ocean switch is unknown. This means that the Kiki Red switch offers a lighter typing experience overall, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where fatigue may be a factor. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier actuation force, ideal for users who prefer a stronger push feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and the intended use case.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Ocean tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Ocean switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Kiki Red switch. The shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm on the Kiki Red switch may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of 4 mm on the Ocean switch may provide a more satisfying depth for some users. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in choosing the one that best suits your typing or gaming style.
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 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 nuance, providing a comfortably high-pitched and sharp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch does not have any specific information provided regarding its sound profile. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so individual preferences may vary based on those factors.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is described as offering a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press typing experience. These switches are engineered to provide a smooth and buttery feel during typing, with reduced friction and a sleek finish that enhances overall comfort and typing efficiency. On the contrary, there is no specific information available about the tactile feel of the Outemu Ocean switch.
Overall, if both switches were to be compared based on the available information, it can be inferred that the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch offers a well-rounded typing experience with a unique sound profile and exceptional smoothness during actuation. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch remain unknown, it is safe to assume that users may achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel with both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preferences in sound, feel, and overall typing performance.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a finely-tuned, subtly clacky typing experience with medium-light weighting and smooth actuation, the Kiki Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a unique sound signature and a different typing feel, the Ocean switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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