Bsun Olive vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Bsun Olive and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Olive and TTC Speed Silver stand out as popular options with distinct qualities. The Bsun Olive switch is praised for its resonant, deep sound produced by its all-POM housings. It offers a tactile typing experience with pronounced feedback and a sharp bottom-out, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a satisfying and responsive feel. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switch is favored for its fast and precise typing experience, with a light-medium resistance and reduced travel distance for quick actuation. While the Olive switch is categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', 'Snappy', the Speed Silver is labeled as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Polished'. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
The housing materials of the Bsun Olive and TTC Speed Silver switches offer distinct differences in sound profiles and aesthetics. The Olive's POM top housing provides a deep and muted sound, while the Speed Silver's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, offering a visually appealing option for those looking to customize their keyboards. In contrast, the POM bottom housing of the Olive and nylon bottom housing of the Speed Silver provide differences in sound profiles as well, with POM offering a unique sound and nylon creating a deeper and fuller tone.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Bsun Olive and TTC Speed Silver switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The use of POM in the Olive's top and bottom housing creates a cohesive sound profile that is pleasing to the ear, while the use of polycarbonate in the Speed Silver offers a sharper and more resonant sound. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Speed Silver absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile that some users may prefer over the deeper tones of the POM bottom housing in the Olive. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in sound and feel.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note that the top and bottom housings play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of a switch. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the combination of POM and nylon in the Bsun Olive and TTC Speed Silver switches, respectively, results in a unique balance of sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer the deeper and muted sound of POM or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate, both switches offer distinct characteristics that contribute to an enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch are quite different. The Olive has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Speed Silver's 55 grams. However, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. This means that while the initial force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both switches, the Olive will provide a slightly heavier typing experience overall due to the higher bottom out force. In terms of weight, the Olive is on the heavier side, making it ideal for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, while the Speed Silver is lighter and better suited for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference for typing experience and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
The travel distance of both the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is equal, with both switches having a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that when pressing down on either key, the user will experience the same amount of travel distance before bottoming out. As a result, both switches will provide a consistent typing experience in terms of key travel. Whether typing on a keyboard with the Olive tactile switch or the Speed Silver linear switch, users can expect similar results in terms of travel distance and key 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 TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 stands out for its resonant and deep sound profile, creating a satisfying auditory experience during use. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of typing environments and preferences. The sound produced by both switches will vary depending on additional factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Olive tactile switch offers a unique typing experience with its accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy tactile feedback. This creates a tangible sensation that is both responsive and immersive. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and smooth key travel for a comfortable typing session. Both switches provide distinct tactile experiences that cater to different preferences in typing feel.
Overall, the Bsun Olive tactile switch and TTC Speed Silver linear switch offer contrasting yet exceptional qualities in sound and feel. The Bsun Olive provides a deep and resonant sound with pronounced tactile feedback, creating a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver offers a neutral sound profile and a gentle, polished typing feel for a fast and precise typing experience. Whether you prefer a more tactile and immersive feel or a smooth and precise typing experience, both switches offer unique qualities to enhance your typing journey.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the BSUN Olive tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, your decision should be based on your preference for sound and feel. If you prioritize a pronounced tactile feedback with a deep, resonant sound, then the Olive switch is the way to go. The Olive switch offers a satisfying typing experience with its unique design and sharp bottom-out. On the other hand, if you value a fast and precise typing experience with a neutral sound profile and a smooth key travel, then the Speed Silver switch is the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
