Cherry MX Black vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Cherry MX Black and the Bsun Olive. The Cherry MX Black is a linear switch that is beloved for its smooth and textured feel, emitting a deep sound profile while typing. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive is a tactile switch with all-POM housings, providing a unique and satisfying tactile feedback with a sharp bottom-out. While the Cherry MX Black is praised for its low-pitched and stiff characteristics, the Bsun Olive stands out for its invigorating and sharp feel. Both switches offer a distinct typing experience, but the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Cherry MX Black and the Bsun Olive switches both offer a deeper sound profile, but achieve it in slightly different ways. The MX Black utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a duller, rounder sound. In contrast, the Olive features a POM top housing that produces a unique and pleasing deeper sound. While both materials aim for a similar outcome, the specific characteristics of nylon and POM result in subtle differences in sound quality.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Cherry MX Black and the Bsun Olive switches again share a similar goal of producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon bottom housing of the MX Black absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a rounder sound when compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Olive creates a more muted and deeper sound. Despite the differences in material, both switches achieve a similar sound profile that is characterized by depth and richness.
Overall, while the Cherry MX Black and Bsun Olive switches may utilize different housing materials, they both excel in creating a deeper and fuller sound experience. The nylon and POM materials each contribute their unique characteristics to the overall sound profile, with the nylon offering a duller and rounder sound while the POM provides a more muted and deep tone. Regardless of the specific material used, both switches ultimately deliver a satisfying typing experience with a rich sound quality that enhances the overall user experience.
Weight
The Cherry MX Black linear switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Bsun Olive tactile switch. The MX Black requires 60 grams to actuate and 80 grams to bottom out, making it a heavier option. On the other hand, the Olive switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Olive switch, as it requires less force to type with. In contrast, those who prefer a more substantial push feel may opt for the MX Black switch. Both switches offer different typing experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, we find that the MX Black has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Olive has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. The MX Black offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a deeper feel when pressing down on the key compared to the Olive. Despite this difference, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference, with the MX Black offering a deeper press and the Olive providing a slightly shorter and potentially quicker response. Ultimately, users looking for a quicker, more responsive feel may prefer the Olive, while those seeking a more substantial key press may opt for the MX Black.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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
In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Black switch is characterized by a low-pitched profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone during typing. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive switch delivers a resonant, deep sound that sets it apart from other switches. The sound produced by the Olive switch is not explicitly described, but it is safe to say that both switches provide a satisfying auditory experience, albeit with slightly different characteristics.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cherry MX Black switch is known for its textured and stiff qualities, providing a noticeable friction when pressed and requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive switch offers an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback due to its unique design and long pole stem. It also provides a snappy and accented typing experience, adding to the overall tactile satisfaction during use.
Taking into consideration the subjective qualities of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, it is evident that both switches offer distinct advantages in sound and feel. While the MX Black switch excels in providing a low-pitched sound with a textured and stiff feel, the Bsun Olive switch stands out with its deep, resonant sound and invigorating, sharp tactile feedback. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, users can expect similar levels of satisfaction with either switch, tailored to their individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a heavier actuation force and smooth, low-pitched sound profile, then the MX Black may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy actuation force, pronounced tactile feedback with an invigorating and sharp feel, and a resonant, deep sound profile, then the Bsun Olive switch could be the more satisfying choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how you prioritize the feel and sound of the switches during your typing sessions.
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