KTT Laurel vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a linear mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up for discussion are the KTT Laurel and the Bsun Taichi. The KTT Laurel is celebrated for its medium-light actuation, combining a full POM housing with a short travel distance and a long pole design. This makes it an excellent choice for gamers and typists seeking a responsive and comfortable experience while typing, all complemented by a subtly low-pitched sound profile that keeps things discreet. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi stands out with its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, facilitated by a long-pole stem, extended springs, and walled stems that contribute to unparalleled smoothness and stability. This switch may appeal to those who prioritize auditory feedback along with a slick keystroke. Both switches have unique features that cater to different preferences; the Laurel offers a more muted typing experience, while the Taichi provides a brighter acoustic profile. 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
43g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The KTT Laurel and the Bsun Taichi differ significantly in their housing materials, which results in contrasting sound profiles and overall typing experiences. The Laurel utilizes a POM (Polyoxymethylene) material for its top housing, known for creating a deeper and more muted sound profile that many users find pleasing. In this configuration, the POM top contributes to a heavier low-end sound when typing, which can make for a warm and rich auditory experience. In contrast, the Taichi employs polycarbonate for its top housing, a material recognized for its stiffer nature, which leads to a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This difference in material causes the acoustic characteristics of the switches to diverge, with the Taichi delivering a crisper and more resonant sound, especially when RGB lighting is utilized due to the translucency of polycarbonate.
When examining the bottom housing, the contrast continues as the KTT Laurel employs POM once again, while the Bsun Taichi opts for nylon. The choice of nylon in the Taichi's bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, which differs from the muted qualities of the POM used in the Laurel's bottom housing. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder auditory experience that contrasts with the more defined and toned sound expected from the mellow POM material. Thus, each switch's bottom housing influences not only the sound but also the overall feel during bottoming out, with the Taichi providing a deeper tactile response compared to the Laurel's more refined feedback.
Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in the KTT Laurel and Bsun Taichi switches highlights how their sound profiles are shaped by the interplay between the top and bottom housings. The deeper characteristic of POM in both the Laurel's top and bottom housings lends to a coherent and muted sound throughout, while the contrasting stiffer polycarbonate and softer nylon combination in the Taichi creates a more varied auditory experience between the two parts. The outcome is that each switch offers a distinct typing experience, with users favoring the POM setup for its warmth and richness in sound, while others may prefer the crispness and clarity offered by the polycarbonate and nylon pairing.
Weight
The KTT Laurel and Bsun Taichi linear switches exhibit distinct differences in actuation force, while the bottom out force of the Taichi remains unknown. The Laurel features an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option overall. In contrast, the Taichi has a slightly softer actuation force of 40 grams but lacks a specified bottom out force, which prevents a direct comparison. Generally, the lighter actuation force of the Taichi could lead to comfortable typing sessions, similar to that of the Laurel, though the experience may vary since the bottom out force is vital in determining the overall feel of the switch. Users who prefer a lighter touch might gravitate towards the Taichi for its gentler actuation, but without knowing its bottom out force, the Laurel might still be preferable for those who value a definitive bottoming out experience while typing or gaming.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, we observe a slight difference between the two. The KTT Laurel has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Bsun Taichi measures at 3.6 mm. This makes the Laurel the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel that may appeal to gamers seeking quick key presses. On the other hand, the Taichi, with its longer travel distance, is likely to provide a more substantial depth that some users prefer for a less abrupt typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches should reflect your personal preference for responsiveness versus key feel, with both switches catering to different user needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
The Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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
The sound profile of the KTT Laurel linear switch is characterized by its subtly low-pitched tone, creating a mellow and bass-heavy auditory experience. This quality provides a comfortable acoustic environment, making it suitable for extended typing sessions without being overly intrusive. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi linear switch showcases an enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, which can lend a crisp and brighter character to each keystroke. The high-pitched sound creates an engaging auditory feedback that some users may find satisfying, though it may not suit those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Additionally, it is crucial to note that the acoustics can vary based on factors such as the keyboard and keycap materials used, meaning both switches may interact differently in various setups.
When it comes to the feel of these two switches, the KTT Laurel is recognized for its snappy responsiveness. This quality is often achieved through the use of longer or dual-staged springs, resulting in a typing experience that feels lively and engaging. Users typically enjoy how each keypress invites a quick return, making it ideal for both typing and gaming contexts. On the other hand, information about the feel of the Bsun Taichi linear switch is unspecified. However, given its design features like a long-pole stem and extended springs aimed at achieving unparalleled smoothness and stability, it is reasonable to expect that the Taichi switch also provides a satisfying tactile response, albeit perhaps with a different character from that of the Laurel.
In conclusion, both the KTT Laurel and Bsun Taichi linear switches present unique auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The Laurel offers a low-pitched, snappy typing feel, which makes it a solid choice for those who enjoy a responsive and comfortable switch. Conversely, the Taichi features a high-pitched sound profile that may appeal to users seeking crisp feedback, although its tactile characteristics remain less specified. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences regarding sound and feel, with each promising a distinct experience in the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the KTT Laurel and the Bsun Taichi linear switches largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a medium-light feel with a responsive, snappy action that offers a comfortable typing experience, the KTT Laurel is likely the ideal choice for you. Its low-pitched sound profile and short travel can provide an enjoyable and precise typing experience, making it suitable for both casual use and gaming. On the other hand, if you are drawn to a more enchanting auditory experience with a high-pitched sound that adds character to your keystrokes, the Bsun Taichi switches may be more appealing. Their long-pole design and extended springs contribute to unparalleled smoothness and stability, which can enhance the overall feel of your keyboard. In summary, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize a snappy tactile response with a mellow sound or a smooth, high-pitched auditory experience, allowing you to tailor your keyboard setup to your specific desires and needs.
Mentioned in this article
