KTT Mint vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between various options, each offering unique characteristics and experiences. The KTT Mint linear switch is celebrated for its satisfyingly smooth feel and a distinctive poppy thockiness, thanks to its long pole stem. This results in a typing experience that feels light and fleeting, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a swift and effortless keystroke. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi linear switch boasts an enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, also utilizing a long-pole design complemented by extended springs and walled stems. This design philosophy promotes unparalleled smoothness and stability, ideal for users who enjoy both auditory feedback and a consistently satisfying typing experience. While both switches provide a linear action devoid of tactile bumps or clicks, they cater to different preferences in sound and feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The KTT Mint and Bsun Taichi switches utilize the same materials for their top and bottom housings, featuring polycarbonate for the top and nylon for the bottom. The polycarbonate top housing in both switches contributes to a distinctly sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is primarily due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which facilitates clearer sound resonance. Additionally, its translucency enhances the aesthetic appeal of both switches, making them particularly suitable for setups featuring RGB lighting. In both cases, the clear housing allows for an attractive glow from the lights below, offering a unified visual experience that enhances any gaming or typing environment.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Mint and Taichi also share the nylon material, known for its distinctive sound characteristics. The nylon housing in both switches creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, diverging from the higher tones produced by the polycarbonate top. The softer nature of nylon results in better sound absorption, allowing for a rounder and more muted sound during key presses. Therefore, users can expect a consistent feel across both models regarding bottom-out sounds, as the nylon effectively cushions the impact and produces a more rich auditory experience.
When considering the overall performance of these switches, the interaction between their materials becomes crucial. As each switch employs the same types of housing materials—polycarbonate for the top and nylon for the bottom—the resulting sound profiles will reflect this combination. While the top housing accentuates higher-pitched tones during key releases, the bottom housing provides a fuller, more resonant quality during key presses. Thus, both the KTT Mint and Bsun Taichi can be expected to deliver a similarly harmonious typing experience, marrying the benefits of both materials in a seamless manner.
Weight
The KTT Mint and Bsun Taichi linear switches present an interesting comparison in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Mint switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as a medium-light option, suitable for extended typing sessions without significant fatigue. In contrast, the Taichi switch boasts a lighter actuation force of 40 grams but lacks specified bottom out force information, making it challenging to ascertain how it compares in that regard. Consequently, while the Mint is the heavier option in terms of actuation force, the Taichi could potentially provide a softer feel during use, though the unknown bottom out force leaves some uncertainty. For typists who prefer a lighter touch, the Taichi may be preferable, while those who appreciate a more substantial feel might lean toward the Mint.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Mint linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, the KTT Mint offers a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Taichi has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Mint switch provides a more traditional depth, which some users may appreciate for a more substantial tactile experience. On the other hand, the Taichi's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers and those seeking quicker response times, as it allows for faster keystrokes. Ultimately, if you prefer a deeper key travel for a more pronounced feel, the KTT Mint would be the better choice, whereas if you lean towards a snappier experience, the Bsun Taichi would suit you well.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Mint comes in at $2.91 per 10 switches.
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 KTT Mint linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched sound that leans towards a bass-heavy and mellow tone, providing a more subdued auditory experience. It also features a neutral sound profile, making it versatile enough for various environments, be it at home or in an office setting. In contrast, while the Bsun Taichi switch incorporates a long-pole stem that contributes to a unique high-pitched bottom-out sound, specific details regarding its sound descriptors are lacking. This indicates that the Taichi's acoustic properties may offer a different auditory experience compared to the Mint, which may appeal to those who prefer more pronounced sounds while typing.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Mint stands out for its mild and polished characteristics. The mild typing experience ensures that it’s accessible for both beginners and experienced typists alike, making it a comfortable choice for prolonged use. The polished nature of the switch confirms that users can expect a refined typing experience with minimal friction, enhancing the smoothness of the key travel. Since the Bsun Taichi lacks provided descriptors for feel, it’s difficult to make a direct comparison in that regard. It’s possible that the Taichi offers a different tactile sensation entirely, but without specific information, it remains an unknown.
In summary, the KTT Mint linear switch offers a low-pitched, subdued sound profile coupled with a mild and polished feel, making it an accommodating option for various users. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi promises an enchanting high-pitched sound due to its unique design but lacks detailed information on its tactile qualities. For those looking for a switch experience that leans towards a gentle and refined typing journey, the Mint would be a solid choice, while the Taichi may cater to those who prefer a more vibrant acoustic experience, albeit with unspecified tactile feedback. If you value sound and feel, your decision might lean towards the Mint for a smoother, quieter experience or the Taichi if you're drawn to high-pitched acoustics.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the KTT Mint linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you’re looking for a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a subtle poppy thockiness, the KTT Mint is your best option. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams makes it accessible for long typing sessions without causing fatigue, and its low-pitched sound profile ensures that it won't be too disruptive, whether you're working in a quiet office or gaming at home. On the other hand, if you desire an enchanting, high-pitched bottom-out sound and prioritize unparalleled smoothness and stability, the Bsun Taichi would be more suitable, particularly if you’re an enthusiast who values those specific auditory and tactile characteristics. The Taichi's design, featuring long-pole stems and extended springs, suggests a unique typing experience, although the unavailable bottom-out force may require additional research to fully understand its actuation. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you favor a well-rounded, understated experience with the Mint or an extraordinary, eye-catching sound and feel with the Taichi.
Mentioned in this article
