Bsun Olive vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Bsun Olive and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Olive tactile switch to the Jwick Taro tactile switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Olive switch stands out for its resonant, deep sound produced by its all-POM housing, as well as its pronounced tactile feedback and sharp bottom-out. On the other hand, the Taro switch offers a cozy typing experience with a medium-level of tactility and crisp clacks. While the Olive switch is categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the Taro switch is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Buttery', and 'Stepped'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences in typing feel and sound. 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
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Olive and the Jwick Taro differ in their choice of housing materials for both the top and bottom parts of the switch. The Olive uses POM for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Taro utilizes polycarbonate for the top housing, producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The Nylon bottom housing of the Taro contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound compared to the stiffer POM bottom housing of the Olive.
Aesthetically, the housing materials of the Bsun Olive and Jwick Taro also play a role in the overall design of the switches. The translucent nature of polycarbonate used in the Taro's housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. In contrast, the opaque nature of POM in the Olive's housing may not offer the same level of customization when it comes to lighting effects. Additionally, the choice between POM and nylon for the bottom housing of the switches can impact the overall typing experience, with nylon offering a softer and more absorbent surface compared to the stiffer POM material.
Overall, while the Bsun Olive and Jwick Taro have different housing materials that result in distinct sound profiles and aesthetics, both switches aim to provide a pleasing typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housing materials in each switch allows for a balance of qualities that can be felt and heard during use. Whether you prefer the deeper and more muted sound of POM in the Olive or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Taro, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, we can see some differences. The Olive has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Taro's actuation force is unknown and its bottom out force is 67 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of force required. The Olive is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force, while the Taro requires a slightly heavier force for bottoming out. However, these differences are minimal, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of weight and feel.
Travel distance
The Bsun Olive tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Taro being slightly longer than the Olive. Gamers who prioritize speed and quick response times may prefer the Olive due to its shorter travel distance. However, those who prefer a more substantial keypress and a bit more depth may lean towards the Taro switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, as both offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 and deep sound, setting it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch offers a cozy typing experience with acute and crisp clacks. While the specific sound qualities of the Taro switch are described as neutral, indicating a moderate sound profile, the Olive switch's sound characteristics are not explicitly stated. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the BSUN Olive tactile switch is described as accentuated, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, providing a tangible and immersive typing sensation. In contrast, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is noted for its buttery and stepped feel, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a mild tactile sensation that includes pre-travel and post-travel stages. The specific tactile feedback of the Taro switch is different from the Olive switch, which features a prominent tactile bump and a reactive feel.
Taking into consideration the subjective qualities of sound and feel, it's clear that the BSUN Olive tactile switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch offer distinct typing experiences. While the Olive switch provides a resonant and deep sound with pronounced tactile feedback, the Taro switch offers a cozy typing experience with acute clacks and a buttery, stepped feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel during typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the BSUN Olive and Jwick Taro tactile switches, consider the following factors. If you prefer a switch with a pronounced tactile feedback, sharp bottom-out, and a resonant, deep sound, the Olive switches with their medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a cozy typing experience with a medium-level of tactility, acute and crisp clacks, and a bottom out force of 67 grams, the Taro switches could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing experience.
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