Bsun Taichi vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the Bsun Taichi and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Taichi and the HMX Twilight stand out as two exceptional linear options, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Taichi is celebrated for its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, designed with a long-pole stem and extended springs that contribute to unparalleled smoothness and stability during keystrokes. This makes it an excellent choice for typists and gamers alike who value a responsive and consistent feel. In contrast, the HMX Twilight boasts an extended travel distance of 3.85mm, providing a slightly quieter typing experience while still embodying the signature clacky qualities associated with HMX switches. This feature may appeal to those who appreciate a more subtle auditory feedback without sacrificing performance. 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
40g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.85 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Taichi and the HMX Twilight, there are distinct differences that influence the auditory and tactile experiences of each switch. The Taichi features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This stiffer plastic not only enhances clarity but is also advantageous for RGB lighting setups due to its translucency, allowing light to pass through more effectively. In contrast, the Twilight utilizes a nylon top housing that delivers a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and contributes to a rounder sound profile, leading to a substantial variance in the auditory feedback of the two switches.
Both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, which further aligns their tactile and sound characteristics when pressed. The use of nylon—considered a classic in switch design—means that both switches will have a dampened sound upon bottoming out, enhancing the depth of the sound profile and contributing to a more muted experience. Since both switches share this bottom housing material, users can expect a similar sensation when actuating them, underscoring the role this material plays in sound absorption and overall tactile feedback. The interplay of nylon in both switches promotes a cohesive feel, even if their top housings differ significantly.
Additionally, the tonal qualities invoked by the combination of each material in both switches are noteworthy. While the Taichi's polycarbonate top leads to a brighter sound when keys are released, the nylon bottom ensures that this brightness is tempered by a fuller, more resonant base. On the other hand, the Twilight’s nylon top may offer a more harmonious sound experience when pressed and released, leaning towards a lush auditory output. The distinct top materials—polycarbonate versus nylon—not only shape the individual characters of each switch but also result in a rich blend of sound profiles when utilized together with a nylon bottom, appealing to various preferences in tactile and sound experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Taichi linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Taichi features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, ideal for long sessions at work or during gaming. In contrast, the HMX Twilight has a slightly heavier actuation force of 42 grams, which may offer a more substantial feel that some typists appreciate. Regarding bottom out forces, the Twilight has a well-defined bottom out force of 50 grams, which provides a clear tactile stopping point, though the Taichi’s bottom out force remains unknown. Therefore, while the Taichi is lighter in terms of actuation, the Twilight presents a heavier and clearer bottom out sensation. Ultimately, users must weigh these characteristics against their personal preferences for typing comfort and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the Bsun Taichi linear switch with the HMX Twilight linear switch, a notable difference in travel distance becomes evident. The Taichi features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Twilight offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.85 mm. This makes the Taichi the shorter option, which may appeal to those who prioritize faster response times, particularly gamers looking for an edge in performance. In contrast, the Twilight's longer travel distance may provide a more traditional feel, offering a more substantial bottoming out that some users prefer for tactile feedback. Ultimately, choosing between these switches hinges on individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth; the Taichi is ideal for those seeking quick actuation, while the Twilight caters to users who appreciate a more robust keystroke 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 HMX Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight for $3.29.
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 Taichi linear switch is renowned for its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, which adds an element of auditory charm to the typing experience. This distinctive sound is largely attributed to its design, featuring a long-pole stem, extended springs, and walled stems, which contribute to enhanced smoothness and stability. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight linear switch offers a slightly quieter auditory profile due to its extended travel distance of 3.85mm. While it may lack the high-pitched resonance of the Taichi, it retains the signature clacky characteristics typical of HMX switches, making it a pleasant alternative for those who prefer a more subdued sound without sacrificing responsiveness. Ultimately, while the Taichi provides a more pronounced acoustic experience, the Twilight's quieter nature can still be enjoyable.
Regarding feel, the Taichi switch is known for its unparalleled smoothness, largely a result of its specialized design which includes the long-pole stem and walled structure. This smooth action often translates into a luxurious and satisfying typing experience, allowing for seamless keystrokes. In contrast, the HMX Twilight switch, while also linear, emphasizes a different kind of tactile feedback owing to its travel distance of 3.85mm. This feature may impart a more noticeable bottom-out feeling, appealing to users who enjoy a deeper engagement with their keystrokes. Consequently, both switches offer unique experiences, with the Taichi focusing on effortless fluidity and the Twilight providing a slightly more tactile presence in the descent and ascent of each keypress.
In summary, both the Bsun Taichi and HMX Twilight linear switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Taichi stands out for its enchanting high-pitched sound and exceptional smoothness, while the Twilight leans towards a quieter operation with a more pronounced bottom-out feel. Choosing between these two switches will largely depend on whether one prioritizes a striking auditory experience or a balanced, slightly quieter feel in their typing journey. Regardless of the choice, both switches promise to deliver quality performance for any enthusiast.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Taichi linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you are someone who values a distinct auditory experience and prefers a switch that provides a captivating sound profile, the Bsun Taichi is your best bet. Its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, combined with its smoothness and stability due to the long-pole stem and extended springs, makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a tactile and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a lighter actuation force with a more subdued auditory feedback while still enjoying a clacky sound, the HMX Twilight could be the better option for you. With its extended travel distance and a bottom-out force of only 50 grams, it offers a satisfying typing response that caters to users who prefer a more subtle switch without sacrificing responsiveness. Ultimately, your choice should reflect the kind of feedback and experience you hope to achieve while using your mechanical keyboard, whether that’s the spirited sound of the Taichi or the balanced qualities of the Twilight.
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