KTT Matcha vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the KTT Matcha and the BSUN Olive mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with two tactile options that offer unique qualities. The KTT Matcha is beloved for its comfortable and snappy tactility, providing a clean bottom-out sound that is sure to please any typist or gamer. On the other hand, the BSUN Olive switches stand out with their resonant and deep sound, coupled with pronounced tactile feedback for a satisfying typing experience. While both switches offer their own advantages, such as the Matcha's feathery and subtle feel and the Olive's invigorating and sharp feedback, the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Matcha and Bsun Olive both have unique housing materials for their switches. The Matcha features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This makes it ideal for RGB lighting as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the overall aesthetic. In contrast, the Olive has a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. While the Matcha emphasizes clarity and resonance in its sound, the Olive offers a unique and pleasing tone that may appeal to those looking for a different sound experience.
While the top housings of the Matcha and Olive switches differ in material, their bottom housings also play a significant role in the overall sound profile. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Matcha contributes to its sharp and clear sound profile, complementing the characteristics of the top housing. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Olive adds to its deeper and more muted sound, creating a balanced and harmonious overall tone. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings allows for a nuanced and multi-dimensional sound experience when using these switches.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Matcha and Bsun Olive switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. While the Matcha offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound with its polycarbonate housings, the Olive provides a deeper and more muted tone with its POM housings. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound and typing experience. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, users can expect similar levels of quality and attention to detail in the design and construction of both the Matcha and Olive switches.
Weight
The KTT Matcha tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams compared to the Bsun Olive tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams. The Matcha offers a lighter typing experience, ideal for those looking for a smooth and effortless keystroke, while the Olive provides a more substantial and tactile feel, perfect for users who prefer a stronger push when typing. Both switches have their own advantages depending on individual preference, with the Matcha catering to those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions, and the Olive appealing to users seeking a more pronounced tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The KTT Matcha tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Olive tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Matcha has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Olive. A 4.0mm travel distance is considered more traditional, while a 3.0 mm travel distance is shallower. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, which would make the Olive a preferred choice for gaming. However, some may find shorter distances to feel abrupt, in which case the Matcha with a longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the specific use case.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
The Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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 KTT Matcha switch is described as producing a clean, sharp, and snappy bottom-out sound, giving off a crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the BSUN Olive switch is known for its resonant and deep sound due to the all-POM housing, offering a unique and satisfying typing sound. Both switches offer different sound profiles, with the Matcha providing a more clacky sound while the Olive delivers a deeper and more resonant tone.
Moving on to the feel, the KTT Matcha switch is characterized by its stepped and snappy tactile feedback, offering a medium tactile experience that is not overwhelming but still prominent. It provides a comfortable keystroke feel that is responsive and lively. In contrast, the BSUN Olive switch is described as accentuated, invigorating, and sharp, providing a firm actuation force and reactive feel that intensifies the typing sensation. Both switches offer a tactile experience that is satisfying and enjoyable, with the Matcha being more on the subtle and feathery side while the Olive leans towards a more pronounced and sharp tactile feedback.
Overall, the KTT Matcha and BSUN Olive switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Matcha provides a clacky and snappy sound with a stepped and subtle tactile feel, while the Olive offers a deep and resonant sound with an accentuated and sharp tactile feedback. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience. It is important to consider other factors such as keycaps and keyboard build when choosing between these switches to achieve the desired typing sensation.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a light bottom out force and a comfortable, snappy tactility, the KTT Matcha would be a great choice. The Matcha's clean bottom-out sound and feathery feel make it a suitable option for extended typing sessions. However, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a pronounced tactile feedback that is invigorating and sharp, then the BSUN Olive would be the better option for you. The Olive's resonant, deep sound and accented tactile feedback create a satisfying typing experience that is immersive and lively. Ultimately, consider your preference for bottom out force, tactility, and sound when choosing between the KTT Matcha and the BSUN Olive tactile switches.
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