Bsun Olive vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Bsun Olive and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Olive and the Durock T1 are two popular options, each offering unique features and benefits. The Bsun Olive is praised for its all-POM housings and deep, resonant sound, making it a tactile switch that provides a satisfying experience with pronounced tactile feedback and a sharp bottom-out. On the other hand, the Durock T1 stands out for its comfort and medium bump when typing, with a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. While the Olive switch is best described as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the T1 is categorized as 'Stepped', 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Accented', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences and typing styles. 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
67g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Olive and the Durock T1 switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound profile and typing experience. The Olive's POM housing creates a deep and slightly muted sound, providing a unique typing experience. In contrast, the T1's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is more resonant due to its stiffer nature. While the Olive's POM bottom housing contributes to the overall sound profile, the T1's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound.
Despite their differences, both switches offer a unique sound profile that enhances the typing experience. The Olive's POM top housing and the T1's polycarbonate top housing both contribute to a pleasing sound, albeit with different characteristics. The translucency of the polycarbonate top housing also makes it ideal for RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic element to the switch. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Olive and the nylon bottom housing of the T1 each offer their own benefits in terms of sound absorption and impact on the overall sound profile.
Overall, the choice between the Bsun Olive and the Durock T1 will depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing feel. While the Olive offers a deeper and more muted sound with its POM housing, the T1 provides a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate housing. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, with the top and bottom housings playing a role in shaping the overall sound profile. Whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound or a sharper, more resonant sound, you can achieve similar results with either switch by considering the qualities of their respective top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, we can see that the Olive has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the T1's unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Olive at 65 grams and the T1 at 67 grams, both falling into the medium-heavy category. The difference in actuation force may result in a slightly lighter typing experience with the Olive, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the T1 may provide a slightly more substantial typing feel due to its higher actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Bsun Olive tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, while the Durock T1 tactile switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Olive has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the T1. The 3.4mm travel distance of the Olive may appeal to those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the 4mm travel distance of the T1 provides a bit more depth to the key press, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the kind of typing experience one is looking for.
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 T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 its resonant, deep sound that sets it apart from others. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch is described as having a low-pitched sound with a neutral profile, similar to rain falling on a window. The choice of board and keycaps can also influence the overall sound of the switches, creating unique audio experiences for users.
When it comes to feel, the Olive switch is characterized by its accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy tactile feedback, providing a pronounced and immersive typing sensation. In comparison, the T1 switch offers a stepped feel with mild pre-travel and post-travel, along with an accented and polished finish for a smooth and refined typing experience. Both switches offer a medium bump when pressing down, but the Olive switch emphasizes a stronger tactile sensation, while the T1 switch focuses on a comfortable typing experience.
Overall, the BSUN Olive tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch provide unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Olive switch excels in delivering a distinct deep sound and a sharp tactile feedback, appealing to users who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the T1 switch offers a low-pitched sound and a comfortable typing feel with a polished finish, catering to those seeking a smoother and more relaxed typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide satisfying results, each with its own distinct characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Bsun Olive tactile switch or the Durock T1 tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a switch. If you value a deep, resonant sound profile and a pronounced tactile feedback with a sharp bottom-out, then the Bsun Olive switch with its unique design and long pole stem may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on the window, then the Durock T1 switch might be more to your liking. Both switches have their own distinct qualities in terms of feel and sound, so it's important to consider what type of typing experience you are looking for before making your decision. Ultimately, whether you choose the Bsun Olive or the Durock T1, you can expect a tactile switch that enhances your typing experience with its unique characteristics.
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