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Bsun Olive vs. Durock Piano

An in-depth look at the Bsun Olive and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Olive and the Durock Piano each bring unique characteristics to the table. The Bsun Olive switch is a tactile switch that is best known for its all-POM housings, delivering a resonant, deep sound that sets it apart from others. With pronounced tactile feedback and a crisp bottom-out, the Olive switch offers a satisfying tactile and auditory experience during use. On the other hand, the Durock Piano switch is a linear switch that stands out for its proprietary material blend, providing a gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature. While the Olive switch is described as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', 'Snappy', the Piano switch is categorized as 'Bassy', 'Frictionless', 'Silky'. Both switches have their own unique appeal depending on the user's preference. 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

N/A

Bottom-out force

65g

Bottom-out force

63.5g

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Total travel

3.40 mm

Total travel

4.00 mm

Factory lubed

Yes

Factory lubed

No

Stem construction

Standard

Stem construction

Standard

Stem material

POM

Stem material

Mystery material

Top housing material

POM

Top housing material

Proprietary POM blend

Bottom housing material

POM

Bottom housing material

Proprietary POM blend

Mount type

Plate (3-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

Stainless steel

Spring

Gold-plated

Housing materials

The housing materials used in the Bsun Olive and Durock Piano switches both feature POM, a durable and high-quality material known for producing a unique and pleasing sound profile. In both switches, the POM top housing contributes to a deep and satisfying sound experience, with a relatively muted tone. However, while the exact blend of POM in the Piano switch is not disclosed, it still offers a similar deep sound profile as the Olive switch. This similarity in sound profile can be attributed to the use of POM in both switches, showcasing the versatility and effectiveness of this housing material.

One key difference between the Bsun Olive and Durock Piano switches lies in their respective bottom housings. The POM bottom housing in the Olive switch also contributes to its pleasing sound profile, adding to the deeper tones and muted sound output. Conversely, the proprietary POM blend bottom housing in the Piano switch offers a similarly deep and satisfying sound experience, emphasizing the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed. Despite this difference in bottom housing materials, both switches still deliver a consistent and high-quality sound profile due to the utilization of POM in their construction.

Overall, the choice of housing materials between the Bsun Olive and Durock Piano switches highlights the importance of POM in creating a unique and desirable sound experience. While the exact composition of POM may vary between the two switches, they both share a common emphasis on deep and satisfying sound profiles. Whether it's the top or bottom housing, the qualities of POM are evident in each switch, demonstrating its versatility and impact on the overall sound output. Ultimately, both switches offer a high level of performance and deliver a premium sound experience that enthusiasts can appreciate.

Weight

The Bsun Olive tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Durock Piano linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Olive at 65 grams and the Piano at 63.5 grams, making them both fall under the medium-heavy category. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Olive may be the better choice. On the other hand, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the Piano may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The Bsun Olive tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the Durock Piano linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Olive offers a slightly quicker response due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for faster reaction times. On the other hand, the Piano switch provides a bit more depth and feedback with its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding travel distance and responsiveness. Both switches offer quality options for different 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 Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.

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 best known for delivering a resonant, deep sound that is distinctly satisfying during use. On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch is described as having a bassy sound profile, offering a deeper and richer sound signature during key presses. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences, with the Olive emphasizing depth and resonance, while the Piano focuses on a creamy, bass-heavy sound.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Olive tactile switch is known for its accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy tactile feedback. This means users can expect a medium level of tactile feedback that is satisfying without being overbearing, thanks to the pronounced and crisp tactile bump of these switches. On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch is described as providing a frictionless and silky typing experience, offering an extremely smooth and effortless feel with minimal resistance or friction. Users can expect a gliding push sensation while typing with the Piano switches, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing experience.

Taking all the available information into account, it's clear that the BSUN Olive tactile switch and the Durock Piano linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Olive switch focuses on deep, resonant sound and pronounced tactile feedback, the Piano switch prioritizes a bassy sound profile and a smooth, frictionless typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience that each user is looking for. Regardless of which switch is chosen, users can expect high-quality performance and a satisfying typing experience.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the BSUN Olive tactile switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you value a deep, resonant sound with pronounced tactile feedback, the Olive switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, frictionless typing experience with a creamy sound signature, the Piano switch could be more suited to your liking. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to what type of typing experience you find most satisfying. Choose the switch that aligns best with your personal preferences for a truly enjoyable typing experience.

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