Bsun Kiki Red vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Kiki Red and Outemu Tom offer distinct typing experiences for users to consider. The Kiki Red is a linear switch favored for its comfortably high-pitched and clacky nuance, without being overly loud. With all-POM housings and Ly stems for smooth actuation, these switches provide a medium-light weighting that appeals to enthusiasts seeking subtle auditory feedback and refined performance. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom is a tactile switch that lacks specific standout features but offers a reliable typing experience. Choosing between the Bsun Kiki Red and Outemu Tom ultimately depends on individual preferences, but let's delve deeper into the nuances of each switch to help you make the best decision for your needs.
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
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 Bsun Kiki Red and the Outemu Tom switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Kiki Red features a POM top housing, known for creating a deep and muted sound. In comparison, the Tom switch uses a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. While the Kiki Red's POM bottom housing maintains its deep and muted sound, the Tom switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing to create a fuller and rounder sound profile. Despite their different materials, both switches offer distinct acoustic experiences that cater to different preferences.
In terms of aesthetics, the Outemu Tom switch's polycarbonate top housing is clear and ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects. This transparency allows for colorful lighting to shine through, adding a visual element to the typing experience. Conversely, the Bsun Kiki Red's POM top housing lacks translucency, focusing more on the tactile and auditory aspects of typing. The use of polycarbonate in the Tom switch's top housing not only enhances its visual appeal but also affects the sound profile, providing a crisper and more resonant typing experience compared to the Kiki Red's deeper and more muted sound.
When considering the overall typing experience, the housing materials of both switches play a crucial role in shaping the sound and feel of each keystroke. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a nuanced combination of qualities to influence different aspects of typing. While the bottom housing primarily impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both the Bsun Kiki Red and the Outemu Tom switches offer unique and satisfying typing experiences that cater to a variety of preferences, whether focusing on sound, feel, or aesthetics.
Weight
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Outemu Tom tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Kiki Red requires 50 grams while the Tom's bottom out force is unknown. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Kiki Red make it more suitable for those looking for a smooth and easy typing experience, ideal for long typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Tom provides a more substantial typing feel, which may be preferred by users who desire a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, we can see that the Kiki Red has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Tom has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Kiki Red offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a bit more depth when typing. On the other hand, the Tom provides a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for quick response times. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more common in keyboards today. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to personal preference for 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 Tom 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 high-pitched and clacky sound, providing a satisfying auditory feedback without being overly loud. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the sound profile of the Outemu Tom tactile switch. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard design and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Kiki Red is described as offering a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press typing experience. These qualities contribute to a smooth and effortless typing feel with minimal resistance, making it a favorite among users who appreciate a refined tactile experience. As for the Outemu Tom tactile switch, there is no information available regarding its tactile feel.
In conclusion, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch stands out for its unique sound profile and smooth tactile feel, making it a popular choice for users who value subtlety in auditory feedback and finesse in performance. While the Outemu Tom tactile switch does not have specific information on sound and feel available, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel when compared to the Kiki Red. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch or the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a finely-tuned, medium-light weighting switch with a comfortably high-pitched, clacky nuance and smooth actuation, then the Kiki Red may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a unique sound signature that offers a different tactile experience, the Tom switch could be the better option. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and bottom out force when making your decision, as both switches have their own advantages depending on your individual preferences. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and needs to enhance your overall typing experience.
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