Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie vs. Bsun Tuzi (Bunny)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie and the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) 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 Tuzi (Bunny) present two appealing options for enthusiasts looking to enhance their typing experience. The Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, a medium-weight all-POM switch, is celebrated for its thocky sound profile and remarkable smoothness, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a satisfying auditory feedback without compromising on fluid keystrokes. On the other hand, the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) stands out with its refined design that features a modified LY stem, delivering a clacky and high-pitched sound, combined with a silky touch that many users find appealing for both gaming and typing. While the Smoothie balances performance and price, the Tuzi offers a unique auditory experience that might cater to those who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke 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
48g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
42g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie and the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny), significant differences arise that affect their sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Sea Salt Smoothie features a POM (polyoxymethylene) top housing, which is known for producing a deeper, muted sound profile. This material is adept at creating a pleasantly unique resonance, rendering an experience that many users find satisfying. Conversely, the Tuzi (Bunny) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to the clarity and resonance in its sound profile, making it ideal for those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback during typing. Therefore, if a user prefers a rich and deeper tone, they'd gravitate toward the Sea Salt Smoothie, while those seeking a bright and cutting sound would favor the Tuzi.
Examining the bottom housings provides further contrast between these two switches. The Sea Salt Smoothie's bottom housing is also made of POM, aligning it with the top for a cohesive sound profile that leans towards the deeper and muted side. In contrast, the Tuzi (Bunny) employs a nylon bottom housing, which is traditionally known for its ability to absorb sound and produce a deeper and fuller output. The use of nylon allows the Tuzi to create a duller and rounder sound, contrasting sharply with the crispness of its polycarbonate top housing. This variation in materials results in the Tuzi having a more rounded lower end when bottomed out, especially when compared to the more consistent sound produced by the fully POM-housed Sea Salt Smoothie.
In essence, the differing compositions of the Sea Salt Smoothie and the Tuzi (Bunny) not only define their aesthetic characteristics but also lead to unique auditory experiences that cater to varied preferences. While both switches might include plastics that create pleasing sounds, the materials' distinct properties suggest contrasting experiences. If both switches had the same housing materials for the top and bottom, users could expect more uniform auditory feedback, harmonizing both deep and sharp tones to create a balanced sound experience. However, the differing materials between these two switches results in sensations and sound profiles that cater to specific tastes, attracting enthusiasts to either side depending on their preference for sound characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch and the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) linear switch, we can see notable differences. The Sea Salt Smoothie features a higher actuation force of 48 grams, while the Tuzi (Bunny) has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams. This makes the Tuzi (Bunny) more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for extended typing sessions with less fatigue. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Sea Salt Smoothie is unknown, while the Tuzi (Bunny) exhibits a bottom out force of 42 grams, which is considered light. Therefore, if you're seeking a switch that offers a more substantial typing experience, the Sea Salt Smoothie may be preferable despite its unspecified bottom out force. Conversely, for a more effortless typing feel, the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) is the lighter option, making it ideal for prolonged use without as much strain.
Travel distance
The Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) linear switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Sea Salt Smoothie provides a little more depth in its keypress, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Tuzi (Bunny) offers a more responsive experience due to its shorter travel distance, making it potentially more appealing for gamers seeking quicker response times. Overall, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference: if you favor robust feedback, the Sea Salt Smoothie is the better choice, while those wanting a snappier activation may opt for the Tuzi (Bunny).
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 Tuzi (Bunny) has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Tuzi (Bunny) for $3.49.
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 offers a thocky sound profile that is characterized by a deeper yet satisfying tone when typed on. This contrasts with the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny), which is recognized for its clacky and high-pitched sound, delivering a sharp and snappy auditory feedback that is both crisp and percussive. This clackiness appeals to typists who enjoy a more vibrant and bright sound while typing. However, it’s worth noting that the ultimate sound experience will also depend on your choice of keyboard, keycaps, and overall build, which can influence how both switches are perceived acoustically.
When it comes to feel, the Sea Salt Smoothie excels in delivering an exceptionally smooth stroke, making it a pleasure for long typing sessions. It allows for a comfortable transition between key presses, minimizing resistance and potential fatigue. On the other hand, the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) is highlighted for its silky feel, providing a type experience that further enhances smoothness while pressing and releasing keys. This results in a typing sensation that feels refined and effortless, appealing to those who seek a luxurious touch in their keystrokes.
Ultimately, both the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie and the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a thocky sound with a smooth feel, the Sea Salt Smoothie is an excellent choice. Conversely, if you favor a more clacky and high-pitched auditory experience accompanied by a silky typing sensation, the Tuzi (Bunny) switches will serve you well. Each has its strengths, so selecting between them boils down to your individual typing habits and sound preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie and the Bsun Tuzi (Bunny) linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you lean toward a more muted, thocky sound profile paired with exceptional smoothness, then the Sea Salt Smoothie may be the perfect fit for you, especially if you're someone who enjoys a medium-weight switch that feels balanced and versatile across various typing tasks. Conversely, if you prefer a sharper, clacky sound with a crisp and engaging auditory feedback, then the Tuzi (Bunny) linear switch could be your go-to choice. With its light bottom-out force of 42 grams and silky typing experience, it caters well to those who favor a responsive and lively feel during intense typing sessions or gaming. In summary, aligning your choice with the type of sound and tactile experience that resonates with you is key in selecting the right switch for your mechanical keyboard journey.
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