Bsun Taichi vs. Everglide Tourmaline Blue
An in-depth look at the Bsun Taichi and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Taichi and Everglide Tourmaline Blue present two distinct yet enticing options for typists and gamers alike. The Bsun Taichi, recognized for its high-pitched bottom-out sound, features a long-pole stem, extended springs, and walled designs that create a smooth and stable typing experience that's often favored by those seeking precision and a unique auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue shines with its deep, thocky sound profile that envelops users in a satisfying tactile experience while providing a bouncy feel thanks to its lengthened single-stage spring. Furthermore, the Tourmaline Blues are well-suited for a broad audience, marrying comfort with a standard spring weight that appeals to both casual and seasoned users. While the Taichi excels in achieving a particular auditory finesse, the Tourmaline Blue caters to those who prefer a rich sound and a more approachable typing sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your unique needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Taichi and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue, both switches share similarities and differences that influence their sound profiles. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate provides a clear and resonant output, making it ideal for users seeking a more defined auditory feedback during typing. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting effects, which can enhance the aesthetic appeal of the switches. Given these characteristics, both the Taichi and Tourmaline Blue will yield comparable performance when it comes to the clarity of sound as well as visual effects.
While the top housing of both switches is identical in terms of material, the bottom housing is where they diverge. The Taichi utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which brings a different auditory experience to the mix. Nylon, being a softer plastic, contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound, resulting in a duller yet smoother audio feedback. In contrast, the Tourmaline Blue employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining a consistent sound signature across both sections; thus, it continues to deliver that sharp and resonant sound. This contrast means that the overall sound experience of the Taichi will be noticeably rounder and less pronounced than that of the Tourmaline Blue.
The differing bottom housing materials directly affect the overall typing experience and sound profile of each switch. For the Bsun Taichi, the nylon bottom amplifies the tactile feedback and enables a softer landing sound when the key is bottomed out, whereas the Everglide Tourmaline Blue, with its polycarbonate bottom, creates a more uniform sound profile across both the actuation and bottom-out stages. Therefore, users who appreciate a rich sound may gravitate towards the Taichi, while those who prefer brightness and clarity might find the Tourmaline Blue more appealing. Ultimately, both switches will perform well in terms of sound clarity and overall aesthetic, but the choice between them will depend largely on the user's preference for sound depth versus brightness.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Bsun Taichi linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, there are notable differences in their characteristics. The Taichi features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, which can be advantageous for extended typing sessions, making it suitable for those who prefer a more effortless keystroke during long hours of use. In contrast, the Tourmaline Blue has a significantly heavier actuation force of 59 grams, providing a more substantial tactile experience that some users may find preferable for its robust feedback. Additionally, the bottom out force for the Taichi is unknown, while the Tourmaline Blue has a defined bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating that it may feel more substantial upon pressing the key all the way down. Overall, if you're seeking comfort for prolonged typing or gaming, the Taichi switch is likely the better option due to its lighter actuation, while those who favor a heavier typing feel may lean toward the Tourmaline Blue.
Travel distance
The Bsun Taichi linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch exhibit different travel distances, with the Taichi measuring 3.6 mm and the Tourmaline Blue at 4 mm. This means that the Taichi has a shorter distance of travel, which may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times and a more immediate keystroke feel. In contrast, the Tourmaline Blue's longer 4 mm travel distance offers a more traditional typing experience, likely delivering a sense of depth that some users prefer for a more tactile engagement with each keypress. As a result, users who favor responsiveness and speed would likely lean towards the Taichi, while those who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke may opt for the Tourmaline Blue. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to individual preferences regarding travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Everglide Tourmaline Blue has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Tourmaline Blue for $3.89.
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
When it comes to sound, the Bsun Taichi linear switch is characterized by its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out noise, which is a result of its long-pole stem and various design features aimed at providing smoothness and stability. This distinctive sound profile is particularly appealing to users who prefer a sharper auditory feedback during their typing sessions. In contrast, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch delivers a more subdued yet satisfying deep and "thocky" sound, which many users find enveloping and immersive. While the Taichi excels in its unique high-pitched sound, the Tourmaline Blue provides a balanced, deeper tone that may be more suitable for those who favor a muted experience. Ultimately, your choice may hinge on whether you lean towards the sharper notes of the Taichi or the deeper resonance of the Tourmaline Blue, each evoking different auditory experiences.
In terms of feel, the Taichi switch is prized for its exceptional smoothness and stability, thanks to its well-crafted long-pole stem and engineered components. However, specific tactile feedback and how it compares to the Tourmaline Blue may not be detailed. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue is noted for its buttery, effortless keystroke experience, adding an enjoyable tactile dimension. Its gentle resistance makes it easy to press, minimizing finger fatigue during prolonged use, while the mild nature of its actuation allows for a friendly typing experience that would accommodate both beginners and advanced typists alike. While the Taichi's specific characteristics in feel remain less defined, the Tourmaline Blue clearly stands out for its user-friendly tactile qualities.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Taichi linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Taichi's high-pitched sound and smooth performance appeal to those who enjoy sharp auditory feedback, whereas the Tourmaline Blue's deep, thocky sound and buttery keystroke are tailored for individuals seeking a more subdued, satisfying typing experience. While some aspects of the Taichi's feel are less detailed, the Tourmaline Blue provides a well-rounded typing experience that is accessible and enjoyable for a broad audience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize an enchanting auditory experience or a balanced, comfortable tactile one.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Taichi linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the overall experience you seek. If you're looking for a unique auditory feedback with a high-pitched bottom-out sound and a focus on smoothness, the Taichi might be the perfect choice for you. It’s designed to elevate your typing experience with its long-pole stem and stable design, making it an excellent option for those who relish the sound and smoothness while they type. Conversely, if you prefer a more balanced experience with a satisfying deep sound and a pleasant bouncy feel, the Tourmaline Blue is likely your go-to. With its medium-heavy actuation force, it combines a buttery smooth keystroke with a mild yet enjoyable typing experience, ensuring comfort during extended sessions. Ultimately, your choice should reflect not only the tactile and auditory sensations you desire but also the ergonomic needs that enhance your typing comfort.