Bsun Olive vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Bsun Olive and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Olive and Gateron Silent Ink Black stand out as unique options to consider. The Bsun Olive is a tactile switch known for its all-POM housings, delivering a resonant, deep sound that sets it apart. With pronounced tactile feedback and a crisp bottom-out thanks to its long pole stem, users can enjoy a satisfying tactile feel and auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black is a linear switch preferred for quieter environments. Offering a cushiony bottom-out feel with minimal audio feedback, it provides a silky and muted typing experience. Each switch has its own distinct characteristics and benefits, appealing to different preferences and needs. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Olive and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches each offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Olive's POM top and bottom housings create a deep and muted sound, providing a satisfyingly quiet typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend top and bottom housings produce a pointed and high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. While the Olive's POM material emphasizes a quieter typing experience, the Silent Ink Black's material adds a touch of sharpness to the sound profile.
Despite their differences in sound profile, both the Bsun Olive and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches offer high-quality construction and performance. The Olive's POM bottom and top housings work together to create a cohesive sound experience that is deep and muted. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend bottom and top housings complement each other, producing a satisfyingly clacky sound that is not overly sharp. Both switches prioritize a unique sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience for users, regardless of the specific characteristics of the material used.
While the bottom housing of a switch has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. In the case of the Bsun Olive and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches, the differences in their housing materials result in distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The Olive's POM material offers a more muted and deeper sound, ideal for users who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend material adds a touch of sharpness and clackiness to the sound profile, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced and high-pitched sound while typing.
Weight
The actuation force of the Bsun Olive tactile switch is lighter at 45 grams compared to the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, which has an actuation force of 60 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Olive requires 65 grams while the Silent Ink Black needs 70 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of force required. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Olive, as it has a lower actuation force. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Silent Ink Black with its slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of typing experience and the desired level of force feedback.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Bsunn Olive tactile switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, we can see that the Olive has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Silent Ink Black's 4 mm travel distance. The shorter travel distance of the Olive switch may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers, while the longer travel distance of the Silent Ink Black may provide a more satisfying tactile feel for those who prefer a deeper press. Both switches offer a different typing experience, with the Olive providing a quicker actuation and the Silent Ink Black offering a more pronounced keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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 delivering a resonant and deep sound, while the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is praised for its muted and quiet operation. The Olive provides a distinct auditory experience with its tactile feedback, creating a satisfying typing sound. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black offers a softer and less noticeable sound, making it ideal for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Olive tactile switch is described as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, providing a medium tactile experience with a prominent tactile bump and responsive feel. In contrast, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is said to offer a silky and polished typing experience, with exceptionally smooth keypresses and reduced friction. The Olive switch focuses on tactile feedback and a sharp bottom-out, while the Silent Ink Black prioritizes a cushioned bottom-out and minimal resistance during key presses.
Overall, if you prefer a switch with distinct tactile feedback and a resonant sound, the Bsun Olive tactile switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch would be more suitable. Both switches cater to different preferences, ensuring that you can achieve a satisfying typing experience based on your individual needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience and noise level. If you enjoy a pronounced tactile feedback, sharp bottom-out, and a resonant, deep sound, the Olive switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a cushiony bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback, the Silent Ink Black switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you value the most.
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