Bsun Taichi vs. Gateron Type A

Overview

In the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly impact your typing experience, and two notable options worth considering are the Bsun Taichi and Gateron Type A linear switches. The Bsun Taichi switch is celebrated for its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, thanks to its long-pole stem and extended springs that deliver unparalleled smoothness and stability during each keystroke. This switch caters to enthusiasts who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A switch, part of Sillyworks' innovative "Project Rehash" / SLAY series, redefines traditional travel distances and incorporates advanced factory lubing techniques, resulting in a deeper sound signature that offers a balanced typing feel. With its medium-weight characteristics, the Type A appeals to users looking for a versatile option that blends comfort with performance. While both switches have their unique attributes, ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Bsun Taichi Linear

Gateron Type A Linear

$2.75

$2.25 per 10

$4.70 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Taichi and the Gateron Type A switches, one notable contrast lies in the choice of top housing materials. The Bsun Taichi utilizes a polycarbonate top which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances resonance and clarity. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting effects, making it visually appealing for users who prioritize aesthetics. In contrast, the Gateron Type A features a nylon top housing that delivers a deeper, fuller sound profile. The inherent softness of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounded and more muted auditory experience, which may appeal to those seeking a more subdued typing sensation.

Despite the differences in top housing materials, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing, which is made of nylon. The use of nylon in both the Bsun Taichi and the Gateron Type A ensures that the switches yield a consistent sound effect due to the properties of the material. The nylon's ability to absorb sound creates a deeper and fuller tonal quality, impacting the switch's bottom-out sound and feel. As both switches feature nylon for this pivotal component, users can expect a similarly enriching, plush tactile experience when bottoming out, irrespective of their individual top housing materials.

Ultimately, the distinction between the Bsun Taichi and Gateron Type A boils down to the effect each has on sound and aesthetics. With the Taichi's polycarbonate top housing introducing a sharper auditory experience, users will find a more vibrant sound profile accentuated by RGB lighting possibilities. In contrast, the Gateron Type A’s nylon top creates a more muted sound experience conducive to a pleasing and rounded typing sensation. The combination of nylon bottom housings in both switches ensures a common thread—while overall sound profiles may differ, users can anticipate a rich typing experience at the point of actuation, uniting the two switches under a shared characteristic despite their distinct identities.

Weight

When comparing the Bsun Taichi linear switch to the Gateron Type A linear switch, the actuation forces highlight a clear distinction between the two. The Taichi boasts a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, which may appeal to users who seek a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended work sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Type A requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, suggesting a more substantial feel that some typists may prefer. However, the bottom out force for the Taichi is unknown, making it difficult to compare fully on that front. The Type A, meanwhile, features a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a firmer feedback when pressing down fully. Consequently, if a user prioritizes a lighter overall typing feel, the Taichi may be the better option; conversely, those who favor heavier feedback and a more tactile typing experience would likely find the Type A more to their liking.

Travel distance

The Bsun Taichi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Type A linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Taichi the shorter option, providing a slight advantage in terms of responsiveness, which can be particularly beneficial for gamers looking for quick, efficient keystrokes. On the other hand, the Type A, with its longer 4 mm travel distance, may offer a more satisfying typing experience for users who appreciate a deeper key press, as it feels less abrupt and more substantial. For those who prioritize rapid response times, the Taichi's shorter travel could be more appealing, while traditionalists who prefer a full key press may gravitate towards the Gateron Type A. In summary, if you're seeking a quicker, more responsive experience, the Taichi's 3.6 mm distance is advantageous, but if you value a deeper feel, the 4 mm distance of the Type A is superior.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Bsun Taichi linear switch stands out with its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound. This distinctive trait is a result of its long-pole stem and extended springs, providing a more pronounced auditory feedback upon actuation. In contrast, the Gateron Type A offers a sound profile that skews towards the deeper end of the spectrum, characterized as more neutral and subdued. While the Type A’s muted sound can be appreciated for its versatility in various environments, it cannot quite match the Taichi's distinct high-pitched signature. Nevertheless, both sound profiles can be influenced by the keyboard's build quality, such as the choice of board and keycaps, offering users a range of auditory experiences.

Regarding feel, the Bsun Taichi linear switch is celebrated for its unparalleled smoothness and stability, attributed to its carefully designed walled stems and long-pole construction. While specific descriptions for the feel of the Taichi switch are not provided, one can infer that its engineering aims to deliver a seamless typing experience. The Gateron Type A, marketed as a medium-weight switch, similarly promises a balanced tactile experience suitable for both novice and seasoned users. However, the specifics of its tactile feedback are not detailed, leaving a gap in comparisons regarding how it interacts with the fingers during sustained typing sessions.

In conclusion, while the Bsun Taichi and Gateron Type A linear switches each offer distinct sound profiles—one leaning towards a high-pitched note and the other providing a deeper, more subdued sound—their unique qualities contribute to an individual typing experience. The Taichi impresses with its emphasis on smoothness and auditory feedback, whereas the Type A caters to those desiring a more neutral sound and moderate weight. Although both switches promise their own benefits, the choice between them ultimately hinges on personal preference regarding sound characteristics and the specific tactile sensations one seeks in a linear switch.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Taichi linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in sound, feel, and usage scenario. If you prioritize a switch that offers a unique auditory experience, with a high-pitched bottom-out sound and exceptional smoothness due to its long-pole stem and extended springs, then the Taichi may be the right choice for you. This switch is likely to appeal to enthusiasts who enjoy an expressive typing sound and seek a more dynamic feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a more balanced approach with moderate sound and actuation force, the Gateron Type A could be your best bet. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams makes it suitable for a variety of typing tasks, whether at home or in a quieter office environment, and its deeper sound signature offers a more subdued auditory experience that can be appealing if you want a switch that fits seamlessly into your daily routine. Ultimately, consider your typing habits and the environment in which you’ll be using your mechanical keyboard to make the best choice for your needs.

Mentioned in this article

Bsun Taichi Linear

$2.75

$2.25 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Type A Linear

$4.70 per 10

Learn more