Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie and the Bsun Taichi present two compelling options for enthusiasts who prefer linear switches. The Sea Salt Smoothie is lauded for its medium-weight design and all-POM construction, delivering a satisfying thocky sound profile alongside exceptional smoothness, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a responsive typing experience without any tactile bumps. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi is celebrated for its high-pitched bottom-out sound and advanced features, including a long-pole stem and extended springs that contribute to its unparalleled smoothness and stability. While both switches cater to a linear preference, they offer different auditory and tactile experiences. The Sea Salt Smoothie appeals to users looking for a balanced sound with a robust feel, while the Taichi entices those who appreciate a distinctive auditory feedback with its enchanting sound signature. 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
48g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie and the Bsun Taichi switches, significant differences emerge, affecting their overall sound profiles and aesthetics. The Sea Salt Smoothie utilizes a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, known for producing a deeper, more muted sound. In contrast, the Taichi features a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and contributes to a sharper, crisper sound profile. The properties of these materials mean that while the Sea Salt Smoothie is favored for users seeking a softer auditory experience, the Taichi's design is better suited for those who prefer a bright and lively typing sound. This difference can lead to contrasting auditory experiences when using these switches, with one focusing on a smooth, subtle delivery and the other presenting a more vivid and resonant sound.
The differences in the bottom housing materials further emphasize these sound profile distinctions. The Sea Salt Smoothie's POM bottom housing complements its top housing by creating a deeper and mellow sound quality, offering a unique auditory experience that is pleasant and cohesive. In contrast, the Taichi employs a nylon bottom housing, which absorbs sound, resulting in a fuller and rounder sound profile. Nylon is generally softer than POM, helping to mask higher frequencies and intensifying the overall sound experience. Therefore, while the Sea Salt Smoothie excels in delivering a more robust and muted sound, the use of nylon in the Taichi's bottom housing adds a layer of depth, making them distinctly different in terms of auditory feedback.
Despite the differences in their materials, similarities in results can emerge when considering the combined effects of each switch’s top and bottom housings. Both switches possess unique characteristics that balance sound and typing feel, allowing users to experience satisfying keystrokes regardless of preference. In both instances, the top housing influences the release sound, while the bottom housing affects the bottom-out feel and sound. This means that even though one switch may produce a sharper sound and the other a softer one, the overall experience can be tailored by how each component integrates, resulting in unique but equally gratifying auditory and tactile feedback for different typing styles.
Weight
Comparing the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, there is a notable difference in actuation force. The Sea Salt Smoothie requires a force of 48 grams to actuate, while the Taichi has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams. This means that typists or gamers who prefer a softer feel for prolonged typing sessions might lean towards the Taichi switch for its lighter actuation. However, without available data on their bottom out forces for both switches, we cannot make a direct comparison on that aspect. Nevertheless, the known actuation forces indicate that the Sea Salt Smoothie provides a more substantial push feel, potentially appealing to those who enjoy a heavier switch. Conversely, the Taichi can be seen as the more accessible option for those preferring less resistance during typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preferences regarding weight and resistance during use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, it’s clear that the Sea Salt Smoothie offers a slightly greater travel distance at 3.7 mm, compared to the 3.6 mm of the Taichi. This 0.1 mm difference may seem minimal, but it could translate to a different feel when typing or gaming. The shorter travel distance of the Taichi may be preferable for gamers seeking quicker response times, as it enables faster actuation. Conversely, if you appreciate a more satisfying and hearty depth in your keystrokes, the longer travel distance of the Sea Salt Smoothie could provide a better experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will hinge on personal preference for travel distance and the responsiveness desired in a keyboard.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Salt Smoothie for $2.70.
The Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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 Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch is known for its distinctive thocky sound profile, which can contribute a satisfying auditory experience during typing. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi linear switch delivers a high-pitched bottom-out sound that adds a unique element to its acoustic signature. While both switches produce pleasant sounds, they cater to different auditory preferences, with the Sea Salt Smoothie offering a deeper, fuller tone and the Taichi showcasing a brighter, sharper pitch. It’s important to note that the overall sound experience will also depend on external factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps, which can enhance or alter these inherent qualities.
Regarding feel, the Sea Salt Smoothie switch is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness, a characteristic often sought after by enthusiasts who value a fluid keystroke. Comparatively, the Taichi switch features a long-pole stem and extended springs, which also contribute to a notable sense of smoothness and stability during keypresses. Both switches deliver a delightful feel while typing, making them suitable for users who prefer a seamless linear switch experience. While the nuances of feel may vary, both switches excel in providing a satisfying typing experience free from any noticeable scratchiness.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie and Bsun Taichi linear switches offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Sea Salt Smoothie provides a thocky sound and exceptional smoothness, while the Taichi brings a high-pitched bottom-out sound with a focus on smoothness and stability. Depending on individual preferences for auditory and tactile feedback, users can select either switch to achieve a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience. Given their superior construction and quality, either choice is likely to yield enjoyable results that enhance your typing or gaming experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, your choice largely depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel. If you are someone who enjoys a thocky sound profile and prioritizes a smooth typing experience, the Sea Salt Smoothie would be a fantastic fit for you. Its medium-weight design, combined with the all-POM construction, ensures a satisfying typing experience, especially if you appreciate an auditory feedback without overpowering noise. On the other hand, if you are inclined towards a more enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound and value stability alongside smoothness, the Bsun Taichi may be your ideal option. Its unique long-pole stem and extended springs cater to users who seek precision and a distinctive auditory character while typing. Ultimately, your choice hinges on whether you favor a bassy thock or a brighter sound, and how much you prioritize the tactile nuances each switch offers.
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