Cherry MX Brown vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Brown and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Brown and Bsun Olive mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both offer unique characteristics catering to different preferences. The MX Brown switch is known for its subtlety, providing a light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive switch stands out for its deep, resonant sound and pronounced tactile feedback, creating a satisfying tactile and auditory experience during use. While the MX Brown is categorized as textured, bassy, and low-pitched, the Bsun Olive falls under accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding typing experience and sound 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
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 Brown and the Bsun Olive switches both contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. While the MX Brown features a nylon top and bottom housing, the Bsun Olive utilizes a POM top and bottom housing. The nylon housing of the MX Brown creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound. Conversely, the POM housing of the Bsun Olive produces a unique and pleasing sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted.
In terms of sound profile, the nylon top and bottom housing of the Cherry MX Brown and the POM top and bottom housing of the Bsun Olive both contribute to a deeper sound profile. However, the MX Brown's nylon housing provides a fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder overall sound. On the other hand, the POM housing of the Bsun Olive creates a more unique and muted sound profile that differs from the Cherry MX Brown.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall switch experience, the Cherry MX Brown's nylon housing will have more of an impact on the sound when letting go of a key, while the Bsun Olive's POM housing will affect the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Despite the differences in housing materials between the two switches, both the Cherry MX Brown and the Bsun Olive offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch have some similarities and differences. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, meaning they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, the Cherry MX Brown has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams compared to the Bsun Olive's heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. This makes the MX Brown more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, as it requires less force to fully press a key, while the Bsun Olive is better suited for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a heavier push. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing weight and comfort during extended typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Olive tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The MX Brown has a slightly longer travel distance, making it more suitable for individuals who prefer a deeper key press feel. On the other hand, the Olive switch has a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying travel distances, so selecting the switch that matches your preference is crucial in achieving optimal performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on whether you prioritize a longer travel distance for a more tactile feel or a shorter travel distance for faster response times.
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 Brown 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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Brown switches are known for their bassy and low-pitched tones, providing a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive switches offer a resonant and deep sound, thanks to their POM housings and unique design that result in a satisfying auditory experience. Both switches provide different sound experiences, with the MX Browns offering a more subtle and mellow tone compared to the bold and distinct sound of the Olive switches.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Brown switches are characterized as textured, providing a frictional feel when pressed that some users may prefer for a tactile typing experience. In contrast, the Bsun Olive switches are described as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, offering a prominent amount of tactility with a firm actuation force that creates an immersive typing sensation. The Olive switches provide a more pronounced tactile feedback compared to the subtle tactility of the MX Brown switches, catering to users who prefer a more intense typing experience.
Overall, the Cherry MX Brown and Bsun Olive switches offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. While the MX Browns provide a subtle and relatively light typing experience with subdued audio feedback, the Olive switches deliver a resonant and deep sound with pronounced tactile feedback for a more immersive typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile, tactility, and typing experience.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Cherry MX Brown and Bsun Olive tactile switches, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you appreciate a light, subtle tactile feedback with a quieter typing sound, the MX Brown may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced tactile bump and a deep, resonant typing sound, the Olive switches would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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