Bsun Kiki Red vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Kiki Red and KTT Pine offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Kiki Reds are praised for their high-pitched, clacky sound that strikes a balance between being loud and pleasantly tactile. With their POM housings and smooth actuation provided by the Ly stems, these switches are ideal for those who enjoy a subtle auditory feedback and smooth performance. On the other hand, the KTT Pine switches feature a buttery smooth typing experience with a medium-heavy weighting that reduces friction and allows for effortless key travel. While the Pine switches are known for their low-pitched sound, the Kiki Reds offer a more nuanced auditory experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and the KTT Pine, it is clear that they both offer distinct sound profiles based on their materials. The POM top housing of the Kiki Red creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Pine produces a sharper and crisper sound. This difference in sound can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users, as the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when a key is released. However, both materials offer a unique and pleasing sound profile that caters to different preferences.
Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the Kiki Red and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Pine contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The bottom housing is more influential in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, with the POM housing of the Kiki Red offering a deeper and more muted sound compared to the crisper sound of the polycarbonate housing in the Pine. This difference in sound can add another layer of customization for users looking to enhance their typing experience based on their preferences for sound and feel.
While the housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and the KTT Pine offer unique sound profiles, they both share the benefit of translucency when it comes to aesthetics. Polycarbonate is particularly useful for switches featuring RGB lighting due to its clear housing, allowing for a visually appealing look when used with lighting effects. This shared characteristic highlights the versatility of both materials in enhancing the overall design and functionality of mechanical switches, catering to both performance and aesthetic preferences of users.
Weight
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the KTT Pine linear switch's 45 grams. The bottom out force for the Kiki Red is also lighter at 50 grams, while the Pine switch has a heavier bottom out force of 58 grams. This means that the Kiki Red switch would be preferred by those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions due to its lighter actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, the KTT Pine switch would be favored by individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Both switches provide unique typing experiences due to their differing 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 KTT Pine linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the KTT Pine linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Pine is more traditional, providing a deeper feel when pressing the key, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the 3.6mm travel distance of the Kiki Red offers a slightly shorter distance for those looking for quicker response times, which is often favored by gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference regarding the depth and responsiveness of the switch.
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 KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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 clacky and high-pitched sound that provides a crisp and bright auditory feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile that resonates with a deeper and richer tone. While the Kiki Red brings a nuance of high-pitched clackiness, the Pine switch delivers a more mellow and bass-heavy sound experience. Both switches' sound characteristics can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is often described as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance during key presses. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch is noted for its buttery and creamy feel, providing a seamless, uniform, and effortless typing sensation. Both switches prioritize smooth key travel and reduced friction to enhance the overall typing experience, catering to individuals who appreciate a comfortable and responsive typing feel.
Overall, the Bsun Kiki Red and KTT Pine linear switches offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. While the Kiki Red leans towards a high-pitched and clacky sound with a medium-light weighting, the Pine switch delivers a buttery and medium-heavy typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the user's preference for sound profile, tactile feedback, and typing style. However, both switches promise a refined and enjoyable typing experience, ensuring that users will achieve similar results in terms of quality and performance.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the BSUN Kiki Red linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, consider your preferences in typing experience. If you value a lighter bottom out force, a clacky sound profile, and a smooth, frictionless typing feel, the Kiki Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, a bassy sound profile, and a buttery, creamy typing sensation, the Pine switch might suit your preferences better. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so consider what aspects are most important to you when making your decision.
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