Bsun Olive vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Bsun Olive and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Olive and TTC Silent Red offer distinct characteristics to cater to different preferences. The Bsun Olive is renowned for its tactile feedback and resonant, deep sound, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a satisfying auditory and tactile experience while typing. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red is perfect for those seeking a smooth and noiseless typing experience, ideal for quiet environments such as offices or shared living spaces. Both switches have their unique qualities that set them apart, offering options for different preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 TTC Silent Red, it is evident that the POM top housing of the Olive creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Red produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. The use of POM in the bottom housing of the Olive also contributes to its pleasing sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Silent Red enhances the depth and fullness of the sound. The difference in housing materials between the two switches results in distinct tactile and auditory experiences for users.
While both the Bsun Olive and the TTC Silent Red offer unique sound profiles, they both share the benefit of using high-quality materials in their construction. The POM top and bottom housings of the Olive create a pleasing, unique sound that is on the deeper side, while the Silent Red's polycarbonate and nylon housings offer a sharper and fuller sound experience. Despite the differences in sound profiles, both switches are designed to provide users with a satisfying typing experience that is enhanced by the quality of their housing materials. Whether it is the POM or polycarbonate top housing, or the POM or nylon bottom housing, each material contributes to the overall performance of the switch.
In terms of how the top and bottom housings impact the overall performance of the switch, it is important to note that the properties of each material play a significant role in the sound profile and feel of the switch. The impact of the bottom housing is more pronounced during bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings ensures that users experience a balanced and nuanced typing experience with each press of a key. Whether it is the POM or polycarbonate top housing, or the POM or nylon bottom housing, each material contributes to the overall performance and sound profile of the switch in a unique and distinct way.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, we can see that they both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Olive has a slightly higher bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Silent Red's 63.5 grams. Despite this slight difference, both switches fall under the medium-heavy category in terms of force required to press the keys. In terms of weight, some may prefer the Olive for its slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Red may be favored by those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Bsun Olive tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the TTC Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Silent Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Olive switch. The difference of 0.3 mm may not be significant to all users, but for those who are sensitive to key travel distance, it could make a difference in the feel of typing or gaming. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for fast response times preferred by gamers. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference for key depth and responsiveness.
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 TTC Silent Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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 switch is best known for delivering a resonant and deep sound that truly sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red switch is designed to produce a muted sound profile, making it ideal for quiet environments like offices or shared living spaces. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Olive switch providing a more pronounced and satisfying auditory experience, while the Silent Red switch focuses on minimizing noise for a more subtle typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Olive switch is well-regarded for its accentuated tactile feedback, making each keypress feel invigorating and sharp. The long pole stem design of the Olive switch ensures a crisp bottom-out feel, resulting in a tactile experience that is both snappy and responsive. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red switch is known for its buttery and mild typing sensation, providing a smooth and consistent feel from top to bottom. The padded bottom-out feel of the Silent Red switch adds an extra layer of comfort to the typing experience. Both switches offer distinct tactile experiences, with the Olive switch focusing on a more pronounced tactile feedback, while the Silent Red switch prioritizes a smooth and effortless typing feel.
Overall, the Bsun Olive and TTC Silent Red switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. The Olive switch provides a resonant and tactile typing experience with pronounced feedback, while the Silent Red switch offers a quiet and buttery-smooth typing sensation. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. It is important to consider factors such as your keyboard setup and keycap choice to further customize the sound and feel of these switches to suit your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and comfort for a variety of typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're someone who values a tactile typing experience with a distinct sound, the Bsun Olive tactile switch would be an excellent choice for you. The pronounced tactile feedback and sharp bottom-out make for an invigorating and responsive typing sensation that is sure to enhance your overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet and smooth typing experience, especially in a shared environment, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is the way to go. With its muted sound profile and buttery feel, these switches offer a comfortable and seamless typing experience without the distracting clatter. Ultimately, the decision between the Bsun Olive and TTC Silent Red switches will come down to your personal preferences and typing habits.
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