Bsun Light Sakura vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Bsun Light Sakura and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, both the Bsun Light Sakura and the KTT Phalaenopsis offer distinct advantages tailored to different typing preferences. The Bsun Light Sakura, renowned for its silent operation, provides an ultra-light feel that ensures a comfortable experience, making it a perfect choice for those who spend long hours typing in shared spaces or office environments. Its design focuses on minimizing distractions while promoting a gentle and fatigue-reducing typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis boasts a feature of satisfying tactile feedback combined with a light actuation force, allowing users to enjoy a pleasurable typing rhythm without experiencing finger fatigue. The gentle tactile bump at 50g adds an extra level of engagement and delight to each keystroke, making it ideal for enthusiasts who appreciate a rich typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm extended spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Light Sakura and the KTT Phalaenopsis are identical, as both feature polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings. Polycarbonate is renowned for its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is particularly beneficial in keyboard switches, as the rigidity and clarity of polycarbonate enhance the resonant qualities inherent to the switch. Users of both switches can expect a similar auditory experience thanks to this consistent material choice, which ensures a focused and precise sound signature that's appealing especially in vibrant RGB lighting contexts.
Both the Light Sakura and Phalaenopsis utilize translucent polycarbonate, making them attractive options for RGB lighting setups. The clear housing allows light to pass through effectively, illuminating the switch and creating an aesthetically pleasing glow. This design synergy is not only visually appealing but also functional, as the translucency of the polycarbonate amplifies the RGB effect, allowing both switches to showcase the dynamic lighting capabilities that modern keyboards offer. Consequently, owners of either switch can enjoy vibrant lighting and sound clarity, underscoring the compatibility of polycarbonate with modern gaming and professional environments.
While both switches boast the same housing materials, the impact on the user experience is nuanced. The polycarbonate bottom housing influences the feel and bottom-out sound when the switch is pressed, ensuring a robust tactile feedback. Conversely, the top housing plays a crucial role in the sound produced when releasing the key. Thus, while both the Bsun Light Sakura and the KTT Phalaenopsis provide a similar foundational performance due to their identical materials, nuances in sound and feel will nonetheless depend on the individual switch's design and user interaction. This exemplifies how identical materials can yield a variety of experiences based on the other aspects of switch construction.
Weight
The Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch both exhibit an actuation force of 37 grams, making them equally light in this regard, which is advantageous for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming. However, when it comes to bottom out force, they differ: the Light Sakura has a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Phalaenopsis requires a heavier 50 grams to bottom out. This makes the Light Sakura a better choice for those who prefer a lighter feel throughout the typing experience, whereas the Phalaenopsis, with its higher bottoming out force, offers a more substantial tactile feedback that some users might find satisfying. Thus, while both switches provide a similar actuation experience, their bottom out forces cater to different preferences in typing feel and effort.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch is 3.6 mm, whereas the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference of 0.4 mm means that the Light Sakura will provide a more responsive feel, making it an ideal choice for gamers who favor quicker key presses. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis, with its greater travel distance, may offer a more satisfying tactile experience for those who appreciate a deeper press when typing or gaming. Thus, if you lean towards greater responsiveness, the Light Sakura's shorter travel distance would be preferable, while the Phalaenopsis may be suited for those who favor a more pronounced keypress.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Light Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Sakura for $3.49.
The KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis 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
The sound profile of the Bsun Light Sakura switch is characterized by its silence, making it an ideal choice for environments where noise reduction is crucial. Its quiet operation ensures that users can engage in extended typing without drawing attention, creating a serene atmosphere that is particularly beneficial in shared workspaces. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch has a more pronounced acoustic presence, described as both "bassy" and "thocky." This means it produces a deep, rich sound that resonates with a satisfying thud when pressed, appealing to users who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. The choice between these two switches ultimately hinges on personal preference—whether one prioritizes discretion or appreciates the auditory engagement offered by the Phalaenopsis.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Light Sakura switch provides an ultra-light sensation that is designed for comfort during long typing sessions. This gentle feel promotes a fatigue-reducing experience, allowing users to type for extended periods without strain. Conversely, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch introduces a tactile feature with a 50g actuation force that gives it a noticeable bump during key presses. This stepped tactile feedback offers a satisfying sensation, making each keystroke feel deliberate and engaging. Thus, while the Light Sakura emphasizes a smooth and light key press, the Phalaenopsis switch provides that gratifying tactile moment that many typists crave.
In summary, the choice between the Bsun Light Sakura and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches comes down to the user's priorities regarding sound and feel. If you require a silent, smooth experience for long typing sessions, the Light Sakura is an excellent option. However, if you appreciate a richer sound and a tactile sensation with each keypress, the Phalaenopsis will likely enhance your typing experience. Each switch caters to different preferences, ensuring that both will deliver satisfaction based on the user's unique typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch ultimately depends on your specific typing needs and preferences. If you are looking for a lightweight and quiet switch, the Light Sakura is the clear winner. Its 43-gram bottom-out force makes it perfect for long typing sessions, allowing for a comfortable experience without disturbing those around you—ideal for shared office spaces or quieter environments. However, if you enjoy a tactile typing experience that provides feedback with every keystroke, the Phalaenopsis is an excellent choice. With a 50-gram tactile force and a unique stepped feel, it offers that satisfying bump while still minimizing fatigue thanks to its light actuation force of 37 grams. Additionally, the rich, thocky sound profile adds an enjoyable acoustic layer to your typing, making it a delight for those who appreciate auditory feedback as well. Ultimately, consider your typing style—if you prioritize silence and comfort, go with the Light Sakura; but if you seek a tactile sensation and audible richness, the Phalaenopsis will likely satisfy your needs.
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