HMX Lucky vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the HMX Lucky and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Lucky and the Bsun Taichi stand out as two intriguing linear options, each offering distinct advantages. The HMX Lucky, renowned for its softer and glittery nylon housing, provides a lightweight and neutral typing experience that many users find deeply satisfying. Its design caters to those who appreciate a gentler touch and a visually appealing aesthetic. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi is celebrated for its unique high-pitched bottom-out sound, which is achieved through its long-pole stem, extended springs, and walled stems, promising unparalleled smoothness and stability. This switch is ideal for enthusiasts who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback along with a consistent keystroke. While both switches share the linear classification, their nuanced characteristics appeal to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX Lucky and Bsun Taichi exhibit a distinctive contrast in their top housing materials, with the Lucky utilizing nylon and the Taichi employing polycarbonate. The choice of nylon for the Lucky's top housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its characteristics as a relatively softer plastic. This softness allows for sound absorption, leading to a more muted auditory experience that users often describe as duller and rounder. In contrast, the Taichi's polycarbonate top housing, which is a stiffer plastic, contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This property enables the polycarbonate to resonate more clearly, producing a brighter acoustic presence that is especially pronounced when paired with RGB lighting, which is enhanced by the material's translucency.
When we turn our attention to the bottom housings, we find a notable commonality between the two switches, as both the Lucky and the Taichi utilize nylon. This choice means that regardless of the differences experienced when typing on the top housing, both switches share similar qualities in the bottom housing. As such, users will notice a deeper and fuller sound profile when bottoming out. The nylon material here contributes to a sound that is rounded and muffled, preserving a consistent auditory experience across both models when pressed down. Thus, while the top housing varies significantly in terms of materiality and sound output, the bottom housing ensures that some auditory characteristics remain uniform.
Overall, the differing top housing materials of the HMX Lucky and Bsun Taichi create distinct auditory experiences, while the shared nylon bottom housing provides a cohesive foundation for both switches. The Taichi's polycarbonate top resonates with a clearer sound, appealing to users who prefer sharper tonal qualities and enhanced lighting effects. In contrast, the Lucky's nylon top offers a warmer, muffled sound profile, exhibiting the traditional characteristics often associated with classic switch designs. By understanding how the acoustic qualities are affected by the materials used in each part of the switches, users can make informed choices based on their preferences for sound profiles during use.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, we observe some distinctions in their actuation force, while the bottom out force for the Taichi remains unknown. The Lucky switch requires a light actuation force of 37 grams and has a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch, ideal for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Taichi switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 40 grams, appealing to those who favor a more substantial feel in their typing experience. However, without the bottom out force for the Taichi switch, it's difficult to fully gauge its tactile feedback compared to the Lucky switch. Overall, the Lucky is the lighter option, potentially providing a comfort advantage during lengthy use, whereas the Taichi's higher actuation force caters to users who prefer a firmer keystroke.
Travel distance
The HMX Lucky linear switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Bsun Taichi linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference in measurement may seem minimal, but it can have a notable impact on the typing experience. Gamers, who often prefer quicker response times, might favor the Taichi for its more responsive characteristics due to its shorter travel distance. In contrast, users who appreciate a more substantial feel while typing may opt for the Lucky, as its longer travel distance of 3.8 mm provides a more pronounced keystroke. Ultimately, the Lucky is the longer of the two switches, and the Taichi is the shorter, catering to different preferences when it comes to travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lucky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lucky for $2.99.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Lucky linear switch is noted for its overall neutral audio profile, creating a typing experience that is notably soothing and satisfying without being overly pronounced. This lends itself well to a variety of environments, as it isn’t likely to disturb those around you. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi linear switch produces a distinctly high-pitched bottom-out sound that, while enchanting to some, has a character uniquely different from the Lucky. The Taichi's sound signature is influenced by its construction, featuring a long-pole stem and extended springs which contribute to its unique auditory quality, making it ideal for users who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic feel while typing.
When considering the feel of these switches, the Lucky switch is recognized for its smoothness and lightweight operation, allowing for a typing experience that feels effortless and satisfying. The softer nylon housing contributes to this sensation, making it appealing for prolonged use without fatigue. On the other hand, the Taichi switch focuses on stability and smoothness derived from its walled stems and extended springs. This results in a more substantial and consistent feel throughout the typing experience, offering users a feeling of control and reliability that many find desirable. Ultimately, both switches provide enjoyable tactile experiences, though the feeling can differ significantly based on the user’s preference for lightness versus stability.
In conclusion, both the HMX Lucky and Bsun Taichi linear switches cater to different preferences while providing unique auditory and tactile experiences. The Lucky offers a neutral and soothing sound profile with a lightweight and effortless feel, making it ideal for users seeking a more subdued yet satisfying typing experience. Conversely, the Taichi stands out with its high-pitched acoustic signature and stable, smooth operation—perfect for those who enjoy a pronounced feedback from their typing. Depending on one’s personal preference, either switch can deliver an enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience, with each switch's characteristics shaping a distinct typing atmosphere.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, it’s essential to consider your personal preferences for typing experience and sound. If you appreciate a lighter touch and are looking for a switch that offers a smooth, satisfying typing experience with a soft, glittery aesthetic, the Lucky switch would be an excellent choice for you. Its 43-gram bottom-out force caters to those who prefer a more relaxed keypress, making it ideal for long periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, if you are captivated by a more pronounced auditory feedback and a smoother operation, the Bsun Taichi could be more appealing. With its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound and unique design features focusing on smoothness and stability, this switch will suit users who enjoy a tactile and auditory experience during their keystrokes. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a lightweight feel and visual aesthetics like the Lucky or seek the auditory charm and enhanced smoothness facilitated by the Taichi.
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