Cherry MX Orange vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Orange and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch for your typing or gaming needs, the choice between Cherry MX Orange and Bsun Olive switches often comes down to personal preference in feel and feedback. The Cherry MX Orange switch, a linear switch, offers a smooth and consistent keystroke, making it an excellent choice for users who crave a fluid typing experience without any tactile interruptions. Renowned for its enhancements from the original MX Orange, this switch caters to those who appreciate a straightforward, reliable profile. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive switch stands out with its tactile feedback and distinctive auditory experience, characterized by a resonant sound and a sharp bottom-out thanks to its unique long pole stem design. This switch appeals to those who enjoy a more engaging typing sensation marked by a pronounced tactile bump, perfect for both typists who revel in feedback and gamers seeking precision. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Yes
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Orange switches and the Bsun Olive switches, we see distinct differences that influence their sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Cherry MX Orange utilises nylon for both its top and bottom housing, which is known for its softer composition. This quality allows nylon to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller acoustic experience that is both muted and rounded. In contrast, the Bsun Olive employs POM for both its top and bottom housing. POM, while still capable of producing a deeper sound, tends to offer a unique auditory signature that is considered distinctively pleasing yet similarly muted. The key difference lies in how these materials interact with the sound generated during typing; nylon leans towards warmth and depth, while POM introduces a nuanced character to the sound generated.
Both the Cherry MX Orange and Bsun Olive switches exhibit a deeper sound profile, though their methods of achieving this differ. The nylon in the MX Orange's housing absorbs sound waves more effectively due to its softness, making the typing experience feel more subdued and round. In contrast, the Bsun Olive’s POM housing, while offering a unique and pleasant sound experience, does so through a harder plastic consistency that still manages to create a muted result. This difference in material composition reflects contrasting philosophies in design; the MX Orange embraces traditional nylon for its classic sound absorption capabilities, while the Bsun Olive utilizes modern POM to provide a fresh auditory experience.
Despite these material differences, users can expect similarly satisfying results in terms of sound profile. Both switches produce a pleasingly deep and muted sound, though the MX Orange leans more towards a classic feel, while the Bsun Olive offers a contemporary twist. In practical use, the bottom housing's material will have a substantial impact on the bottom-out sound and the tactile sensation, while the top housing plays a critical role in the release sound. Therefore, while the materials differ, users interacting with either switch will find that both provide a gratifying typing experience that highlights their respective design philosophies distinctly yet appreciably.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, we find notable differences in both their actuation force and bottom out force. The Cherry MX Orange requires an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Bsun Olive has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Olive switch is easier to press, making it a better choice for users who prefer lighter keys for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Orange is unknown, whereas the Olive switch exhibits a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams. This suggests that while the Olive switch feels lighter at the start, it has a more pronounced resistance when fully depressed, providing a solid tactile experience. Consequently, those who favor a substantial typing feel might be drawn to the Olive switch despite its lighter actuation. Overall, the Cherry MX Orange is heavier in terms of actuation force, while the Olive switch delivers a contrast of lighter actuation with heavier bottoming out.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Cherry MX Orange features a travel distance of 4 mm, which is more traditional and caters to users who appreciate deeper keystrokes. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, appealing to those who prefer quicker response times, often favored by gamers. As a result, the Cherry MX Orange provides a more substantial feel, while the Bsun Olive allows for a more responsive touch. Therefore, if you prefer a hearty depth in your keystrokes, the MX Orange is the better choice, while the Olive might be ideal for those who enjoy a brisker, snappier typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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 Cherry MX Orange switch produces a muted yet smooth auditory profile that is reminiscent of classic linear switches, lending itself well to an unobtrusive typing experience. The Bsun Olive switch, on the other hand, is characterized by a resonant, deep sound that offers a more pronounced auditory feedback with each keystroke. This distinct auditory signature makes the Olive an appealing choice for users who appreciate a richer sound profile. It's important to note, however, that the overall sound experience may vary depending on the specific keyboard design and the keycap material used.
When it comes to feel, the MX Orange switch is smooth and linear in nature, offering a consistent actuation without tactile bumps, making it particularly ideal for those who favor swift, uninterrupted key presses. In contrast, the Bsun Olive switch delivers a more complex tactile sensation. It is accented and invigorating, providing a prominent tactile feedback that balances moderate actuation force with snappy responsiveness. The sharpness of the tactile bump enhances the typing experience, making it feel alive with each keystroke. This combination ensures that users can expect a satisfying tactile interaction, distinctly different from the MX Orange's smooth operation.
In summary, while the Cherry MX Orange offers a smooth and quiet typing experience favored by linear switch enthusiasts, the Bsun Olive presents a unique auditory and tactile feedback that caters to users who desire a more engaging and pronounced feel during their typing sessions. If you're looking for a more subdued, linear experience, the MX Orange is your best option. Conversely, if you want a lively, tactile encounter, the Olives should be on your radar. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize smoothness or a pronounced tactile response in your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the decision between Cherry MX Orange linear switches and Bsun Olive tactile switches largely depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you favor a smoother, quieter typing experience without tactile bumps, the MX Orange would be your go-to choice. These switches are ideal for gamers who prioritize fast, uninterrupted key presses and typists who prefer a subdued sound profile while maintaining speed and precision. On the other hand, if you enjoy tactile feedback and a more pronounced auditory experience with each keystroke, the Bsun Olive switches will likely appeal to you. With their medium-heavy resistance and distinct tactile feel, they provide a satisfying typing experience that engages your senses and can enhance your overall enjoyment. Additionally, if you find pleasure in the sound of your typing, the Olives' deeper resonance is likely to resonate well with you. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by whether you prioritize smoothness or tactile feedback, as well as the specific activities you engage in while using your keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
