Bsun Olive vs. Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Olive and Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie represent two distinct approaches to typing experience—each with its own set of advantages. The BSUN Olive switches, renowned for their all-POM housings, provide a resonant, deep sound along with pronounced tactile feedback. This tactile nature, characterized by a crisp and sharp bottom-out due to the long pole stem design, creates a distinctly satisfying auditory and tactile experience that's perfect for those who appreciate a more interactive and invigorating feel while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, also made of medium-weight all-POM material, prioritizes smoothness and a ‘thocky’ sound profile, allowing for a quieter and more fluid typing experience. Ideal for users who prefer a seamless keypress without the disruptions of tactile bumps, it balances quality with affordability. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference: whether you favor the pronounced feedback of the Olives or the silky smoothness of the Sea Salt Smoothies. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and needs.

By the numbers

Bsun Olive Tactile

Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie Linear

$5.80

$4.70 per 10

$3.00

$2.70 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Bsun Olive and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switches are both characterized by their POM (polyoxymethylene) composition, which lends itself to producing a specific acoustic signature. Both the top and bottom housings for each switch are made of POM, generating an incredibly pleasing and similar sound profile that is deep and relatively muted. This shared material choice underlines a commitment to producing a satisfying auditory experience, which is particularly important for typists and gamers alike who might prioritize sound quality in their keyboard switches.

While both switches showcase the same POM materials for their housings, the performance traits related to each housing design still have their nuances. The bottom housing generally influences the bottom-out sound and feel more significantly; hence, during keystrokes, users may notice a distinctly satisfying thump from both switches, attributed to the strength of the POM material. Conversely, the top housing will affect the sound felt when a key is released, reinforcing the muted yet deep tonal characteristics. Therefore, despite identical housing materials, users can expect a consistent sound signature with a common emphasis on smooth actuation and tactile feedback.

In conclusion, the shared use of POM for both the Bsun Olive and Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie ensures a cohesive sound experience across both switches. This similarity suggests that users will achieve comparable acoustic results regardless of which switch they choose. By maintaining consistency in the housing material, the strengths associated with POM can be fully realized, allowing users to enjoy the satisfying qualities of a deeper, more muted sound profile that enhances the overall typing or gaming experience.

Weight

When comparing the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, their actuation forces differ slightly, with the Olive requiring 45 grams to register a keystroke, while the Sea Salt Smoothie has a marginally heavier actuation force of 48 grams. This means that the Olive switch is the lighter option, which may appeal to users who prefer a more effortless typing experience suitable for extended use, such as during long work sessions or gaming marathons. The bottom out force of the Olive switch is 65 grams, indicating a substantial push feel when reaching the key's lowest point, contributing to a more tactile feedback. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Sea Salt Smoothie is unknown, leaving the tactile experience at that depth uncertain. Overall, while both switches cater to different preferences with their varying actuation forces, the Olive's heavier bottom out force might attract users seeking a more pronounced typing experience, as opposed to the lighter feel of the Olive that promotes endurance.

Travel distance

The Bsun Olive tactile switch features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This comparison highlights a clear difference between the two switches, with the Olive being the shorter option. For gamers or users who prioritize responsiveness and quicker key actuation, the shorter 3.4 mm travel distance of the Olive may provide a more favorable experience. However, for those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when typing, the Sea Salt Smoothie’s 3.7 mm travel distance could be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding key travel and tactile feedback.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound profiles, the Bsun Olive tactile switch delivers a resonant and deep auditory experience, which can evoke a sense of satisfaction as the key presses are executed. This sound is characterized by its sharp bottom-out, thanks to the design of the switch and the material used. On the other hand, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie produces a thocky sound that many users find appealing. Both switches are made with all-POM housings, which may contribute to their overall sound quality, but the Olive tends to be more pronounced and dynamic, while the Smoothie achieves a softer, muted resonance.

In terms of feel, the Olive switch is notable for its multi-faceted characteristics. It provides an accented tactile response, which is neither overly aggressive nor too subtle, making it an excellent choice for users who enjoy a distinct tactile sensation without being overwhelmed. The invigorating nature of the Olive switch ensures that each keypress feels snappy and reactive, thanks to its pronounced feedback and sharp tactile bump. These qualities are enhanced by a longer pole stem design that ensures an engaging typing experience. Unfortunately, there is limited information available regarding the feel of the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons, but medium-weight switches generally offer a pleasant experience as well.

In summary, while both the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch utilize all-POM housings, they present different auditory and tactile experiences. The Olive stands out with its deep sound and responsive, invigorating feel, characterized by its pronounced tactile feedback and sharp bottom-out. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie's thocky profile offers a softer sound, though its tactile feel remains less defined in the information provided. Depending on what you're seeking in a keyboard switch, you may find either option appealing—just remember that sound and feel can be influenced by factors like your choice of board and keycaps.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, it’s essential to consider your personal preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a pronounced tactile feel with a satisfying auditory feedback, the Olive would likely be your best choice. Its medium-heavy actuation and sharp tactile bump provide an invigorating typing experience, ideal for users who appreciate feedback while typing or gaming, making it excellent for those who like to feel each keypress distinctly. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a smoother typing experience without the tactile interruption, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie is a compelling option. This switch, with its thocky sound profile and seamless actuation, caters to those who prefer a quieter and fluid feel—perfect for long typing sessions or when you need to minimize noise. Ultimately, your decision should align with what you prioritize in typing: a responsive tactile feedback with the Olive or the silky smoothness of the Sea Salt Smoothie.

Mentioned in this article

Bsun Olive Tactile

$5.80

$4.70 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie Linear

$3.00

$2.70 per 10

Learn more