Bsun Olive vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the Bsun Olive and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Olive and the Outemu Red mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that they offer unique experiences for users. The Bsun Olive switch is best known for its all-POM housings which deliver a resonant, deep sound, making it stand out among tactile switches. With pronounced tactile feedback and a crisp bottom-out, the Olive switch offers a satisfying tactile feel and auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Red switch is a linear switch that offers a smooth, consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback. While the Olive switch is described as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the Red switch does not have any specific categorizations. Depending on your preference for tactile feedback and sound, you may lean towards the Bsun Olive switch or the Outemu Red switch. 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
45g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
The housing materials of the Bsun Olive and the Outemu Red switches offer unique characteristics that impact the sound and feel of the switches. The Olive's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Red's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. This difference is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a more clear and resonant sound compared to the POM housing. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic element to the switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Olive's POM creates a similar deep and muted sound profile as its top housing, while the Red's nylon bottom housing offers a fuller and rounder sound. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, leading to a duller sound profile that enhances the typing experience. The combination of different housing materials in the Olive and Red switches showcases how varying plastics can impact the overall sound and feel of a keyboard switch.
When comparing the top and bottom housings of the Bsun Olive and Outemu Red switches, it becomes apparent that the qualities of each housing material are distributed throughout the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences and typing experiences, showcasing the importance of housing materials in keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, we can see that the Olive has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Red's 46 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Olive is heavier at 65 grams, while the Red has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 62 grams. Both switches fall into the medium category in terms of force required. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Olive may be more suitable due to its lighter actuation force. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a slightly heavier typing feel may lean towards the Outemu Red switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Olive tactile switch is 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Olive has a shorter travel distance compared to the Red. The shorter distance of the Olive may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Red may provide a more substantial feel for some users. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on individual preferences, with the Olive being more responsive and the Red offering a deeper keystroke experience.Ultimately, it depends on personal preference when selecting the ideal travel distance for your typing or gaming needs.
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 Red 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 is known for its resonant and deep sound, setting it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Red linear switch's sound characteristics are unknown. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Bsun Olive tactile switch is often described as having an accented tactile feedback, providing a medium level of tactile sensation that is not overpowering. The switch is also said to be invigorating, offering a snappy and reactive feel that enhances the typing experience. Additionally, the sharp tactile bump of the Olive switch gives it a distinct and satisfying keypress. As for the Outemu Red linear switch, there is no information available regarding its feel characteristics.
Overall, the Bsun Olive tactile switch stands out for its unique sound profile and pronounced tactile feedback, delivering a satisfying typing experience. While the Outemu Red linear switch's sound and feel qualities are unknown, it's important to consider your personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches may offer similar results depending on individual preferences and setup configurations.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the BSUN Olive tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, you should consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, pronounced tactile feedback, a sharp bottom-out, and a resonant, deep sound, the BSUN Olive switch is the way to go. This switch provides an accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy feel during use. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force without tactile feedback and a linear typing experience, the Outemu Red switch is the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for tactile feedback and sound, as well as the typing feel you find most comfortable and enjoyable.
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