Bsun Olive vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Bsun Olive and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Olive and the Outemu Blue offer distinct typing experiences. The Bsun Olive is a tactile switch that is best known for its resonant, deep sound and pronounced tactile feedback. The unique design of the Olive switch, along with its all-POM housing and long pole stem, ensures a satisfying feel and auditory experience during use. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue is a clicky switch that lacks a specific standout feature but provides a satisfying click sound with each keystroke. If you prefer a switch with a sharp, snappy feel, the Olive may be the best choice for you. However, if you enjoy the audible feedback of a clicky switch, the Outemu Blue could be more to your liking. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Olive and the Outemu Blue, it is evident that they offer distinct sound profiles due to their different materials. The Olive's POM top housing provides a deeper and more muted sound, while the Blue's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. The use of POM in the Olive results in a unique sound profile, while the polycarbonate in the Blue offers a higher-pitched tone. Despite these differences, both housings aim to enhance the overall typing experience by providing a pleasing sound for users.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing materials, the Olive utilizes POM, which similarly creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Blue incorporates a nylon bottom housing that produces a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer nature. The choice of material for the bottom housing plays a significant role in determining the overall sound quality of the switch, with POM offering a unique sound and nylon delivering a deeper tone.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Bsun Olive and the Outemu Blue provide different sound profiles, it is important to note that the qualities of each material contribute to the overall typing experience. The impact of the bottom housing is more noticeable during the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, whereas the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to varying preferences, whether it be the deeper and muted sound of POM in the Olive or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Blue. Ultimately, the choice between these housing materials comes down to personal preference and desired sound profile.
Weight
The Bsun Olive tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Blue clicky switch, which has an actuation force of 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Olive requires 65 grams, while the Blue's bottom out force is unknown. This makes the Olive switch a bit heavier overall in terms of bottoming out. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Olive for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the more substantial typing experience provided by the heavier bottom out force of the Blue. In terms of force, these two switches offer slightly different experiences, catering to different preferences in typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Olive has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Blue has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Olive's shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking a faster response time, such as gamers, as it allows for quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, the Blue's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more pronounced keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Olive offering a shorter distance for quick actions and the Blue providing a longer distance for a more tactile experience.
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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 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 BSUN Olive tactile switch stands out for its resonant, deep sound that adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, Outemu Blue clicky switches are known for their distinct clicky sound that some users find satisfying and reminiscent of old-school mechanical keyboards. Both switches offer unique auditory feedback that can enhance typing enjoyment, but the specific sound profile can be influenced by factors such as keyboard construction and keycap material.
When it comes to feel, the BSUN Olive switch offers a medium-weight typing experience with pronounced tactile feedback. The long pole stem design of the Olive switch contributes to a sharp bottom-out and a satisfyingly tactile sensation. The Olive switch is described as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, providing a balanced level of tactility that many users appreciate. In contrast, the Outemu Blue switch does not have specific descriptors available to outline its tactile feel, but it is known for its clicky feedback and moderate actuation force.
In conclusion, the BSUN Olive tactile switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Olive switch delivers a deep sound and a satisfying tactile experience, while the Blue switch provides a nostalgic clicky sound without detailed information available on its tactile feel. Depending on your preference for sound and typing feedback, both switches can offer a unique and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, trying out both switches on different keyboards may be the best way to determine which one aligns with your preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the BSUN Olive tactile switch or the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it really comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force, pronounced tactile feedback, and a satisfying auditory experience, then the BSUN Olive switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a lighter bottom out force and a distinct audible click with each key press, then the Outemu Blue switch may be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, it is important to consider factors such as sound, feel, and bottom out force when selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.
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