Cherry MX Brown vs. Bsun Taichi

Overview

When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry MX Brown and Bsun Taichi offer distinctly different experiences tailored to varying user preferences. The Cherry MX Brown is revered for its subtlety; it provides a light, tactile typing experience characterized by gentle feedback and minimal noise, making it an excellent choice for typists who value a mix of comfort and feel without overwhelming auditory distractions. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi switch presents a polished, linear experience that's designed for those who appreciate smooth keystrokes and an enchanting, high-pitched bottom-out sound. Featuring a long-pole stem and extended springs, this switch is perfect for gamers and those who enjoy rapid, uninterrupted typing. While both switches cater to different needs—tactile feedback versus linear smoothness—there's much more to consider when selecting the best fit for your typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Cherry MX Brown Tactile

Bsun Taichi Linear

$4.00 per 10

$2.75

$2.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Cherry MX Brown and the Bsun Taichi switches present a fascinating contrast that can significantly influence keyboard performance and sound profile. The Cherry MX Brown features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper, fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. This softness allows the nylon to absorb more sound, resulting in a sound that is notably rounder and less sharp. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi employs a polycarbonate top housing, which leads to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate enhances sound clarity and resonance, making it ideal for users who appreciate a brighter auditory experience when typing. This difference in materials creates distinct tonal qualities that cater to varied user preferences.

Both switches share the same bottom housing material, nylon, which unites them in sound characteristics at the base level. Nylon's inherent softness contributes to a similar deeper and fuller sound when typing on either switch. Therefore, despite the differences in their top housings, the MX Brown and Taichi exhibit a commonality in the way that sound is experienced from the bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing's capacity to absorb sound ensures that the bottom-out feel remains consistent and cushioned in both switches, giving users a reliable tactile experience regardless of the distinct auditory outputs from their top housings.

When analyzing the overall sound profile and typing sensation of both the Cherry MX Brown and the Bsun Taichi, it's essential to note how the interaction of the housing materials impacts the tactile experience. The nylon bottom housing of both switches provides a familiar and cushioned bottom-out feel, while the differing top housing materials—nylon for the MX Brown and polycarbonate for the Taichi—shape the post-press auditory response. This bifurcation in material characteristics indicates that a typist's preferences might be influenced not only by overall sound profiles but also by the impact each component's material selection has on the overall typing experience. Whether one favors the deeper tones of the MX Brown or the crisper sound of the Taichi, the combination of materials ultimately crafts a unique tactile and auditory feedback loop for the typist.

Weight

When comparing the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, several distinctions emerge. The Cherry MX Brown has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Bsun Taichi's 40 grams, making the Taichi switch the lighter option, which may be preferred for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons due to reduced finger fatigue. However, the MX Brown features a bottom out force of 55 grams, which adds a sense of resistance when pressing all the way down, offering a more substantial typing experience for users who enjoy a firmer keystroke. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Taichi switch remains unknown, meaning we cannot directly assess how it would feel when fully pressed down. Overall, those who favor a lighter typing experience might opt for the Taichi while those seeking a more tactile feedback and heavier force should consider the Cherry MX Brown.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, we find that the MX Brown has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Taichi measures at 3.6 mm. This makes the MX Brown the longer option, providing a more pronounced keypress that many users appreciate for its tactile feedback. In contrast, the Taichi's shorter 3.6 mm travel distance can lead to quicker actuation, making it appealing for gamers who favor rapid response times. While both switches serve different preferences, those who enjoy a more traditional, hearty depth in their keystrokes may prefer the Cherry MX Brown, whereas users seeking a more immediate feel might lean toward the Bsun Taichi linear switch. Thus, the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference regarding travel distance and response.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Brown switches exude a low-pitched, mellow tone that delivers subtle audio feedback, making them suitable for environments where quieter typing is necessary. This subdued sound profile ensures minimal disruption and can be preferred by those who favor a more tranquil typing experience. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi linear switches produce a distinctly clacky sound, characterized by a bright and percussive quality. The sharp and snappy auditory feedback from the Taichi switches is more pronounced, creating a lively and engaging experience but potentially distracting in quieter settings. Ultimately, the difference in sound between these two types of switches represents a significant factor in a typist's experience.

In terms of feel, Cherry MX Brown switches feature a textured experience, providing a subtle tactile bump that adds a level of feedback during typing. This gentle texture can invoke a sense of connection with the keyboard but may also introduce a bit of friction, which some users may find less than ideal. Conversely, the Bsun Taichi switches are praised for their polished feel, boasting a smooth and refined typist experience due to their high-quality materials and likely factory lubing. This results in minimal friction and an effortless key travel experience, catering to those who prefer a sleek and quick typing sensation without any interruptions.

In summary, the Cherry MX Browns and the Bsun Taichi switches offer distinctly different sound profiles and tactile experiences. The MX Browns provide a low-pitched and subtle auditory experience accompanied by a textured feel, making them perfect for those desiring a more subdued typing atmosphere. On the other hand, Taichi switches deliver a clacky sound that’s vibrant and engaging, paired with a polished and smooth feel for those who favor fluid key presses. Depending on your priorities in sound and tactile feedback, both switches can satisfy different preferences, resulting in a typing experience tailored to individual tastes.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between Cherry MX Brown tactile switches and Bsun Taichi linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a subtle typing experience with a touch of tactile feedback and low-pitched, mellow sounds, the MX Brown may be the better choice for you. These switches serve well for a balanced typing experience, providing feedback without being overly loud or distracting, making them suitable for both typing and gaming in shared environments. On the other hand, if you crave a smooth, polished feel and enjoy the exhilarating, clacky sound that comes with each keystroke, the Bsun Taichi switches will likely enhance your typing experience. With their refined design and crisp acoustics, these switches cater to users who prioritize smoothness and a more pronounced auditory feedback. Ultimately, it comes down to whether you prefer the subtlety and tactility of the MX Browns or the smoothness and lively sound of the Bsun Taichi.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Brown Tactile

$4.00 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Taichi Linear

$2.75

$2.25 per 10

Learn more