Bsun Kiki Red vs. Kailh Sage

Overview

When comparing the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it becomes evident that each offers a unique typing experience catering to different preferences. The Kiki Red is praised for its finely-tuned balance of high-pitched clackiness without being overly loud, thanks to its POM housing and smooth actuation facilitated by Ly stems. On the other hand, the Sage switch provides a distinct clicky feel with a heavier weight and sharp, crunchy clickiness. While the Kiki Red appeals to those who appreciate subtle auditory feedback and smooth performance, the Sage switch is ideal for users seeking a more invigorating typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Bsun Kiki Red Linear

Kailh Sage Clicky

$4.70

$3.83 per 10

$6.25 per 10

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Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and the Kailh Sage, it is clear that they both offer unique sound profiles but achieve this through different means. The Kiki Red's POM top housing provides a deeper and more muted sound, while the Sage's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly impact the typing experience for users, depending on their preference for a more subdued or vibrant sound.

Moving on to the bottom housings, the Kiki Red's POM bottom housing once again offers a deep and muted sound profile, similar to its top housing. In contrast, the Sage's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer composition. This difference in material can significantly affect the overall typing sound and feel, as the bottom housing plays a key role in the bottom-out sound when pressing a key.

It is important to note that the combination of different housing materials in a switch can result in a balanced typing experience. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel, paired with the influence of the top housing on the sound when releasing a key, showcases how each material contributes to the overall sound profile of the switch. While the Kiki Red and Sage use different materials for their top and bottom housings, both can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on individual preferences for sound and feel.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is clear that they have significant differences in weight. The Kiki Red has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Sage has an unknown actuation force and a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Those who prefer a stronger push when typing may opt for the Kailh Sage, while individuals who enjoy a lighter touch may find the Bsun Kiki Red more appealing. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, with the Kiki Red offering a lighter option and the Sage providing a heavier alternative.

Travel distance

The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch both have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting their travel distance, it can be noted that both switches offer a consistent amount of distance for key presses. Users can expect similar results in terms of tactile feedback and typing experience when using either switch. It's worth mentioning that the travel distance of 3.6 mm provides a comfortable typing experience and allows for efficient key presses. Overall, both switches offer a satisfactory travel distance for users who prefer a consistent feel while typing.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch offers a clacky typing experience with comfortably high-pitched nuances that strike a balance between sharpness and loudness. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch provides a distinct clicky sound with a heavy weight and sharp clickiness, giving a refreshing experience to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback. Both switches offer unique sound signatures that cater to different preferences, with the Kiki Red focusing on a subtle, nuanced sound while the Sage brings a more intense and prominent clicky noise. When considering sound, it's important to take into account the overall setup including the keyboard board and keycaps, as they can also influence the sound produced by the switches.

As for the feel, the Bsun Kiki Red switch is known for its creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery feel with minimal resistance and effortless keypresses. The Sage switch, on the other hand, provides an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback with moderate to firm actuation force, creating a snappy and reactive feel that immerses the user in a more intense typing sensation. The Kiki Red focuses on smoothness and ease of pressing, while the Sage emphasizes a strong tactile bump and pronounced feedback for a more engaging typing experience. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback that caters to different preferences, with the Kiki Red focusing on smoothness and finesse while the Sage delivers a more intense and tactile typing experience.

In conclusion, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. The Kiki Red provides a comfortable and nuanced typing experience with a clacky sound and smooth, frictionless feel, ideal for those who appreciate subtlety and finesse in their mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage offers a sharp and clicky typing experience with a heavy weight and invigorating tactile feedback, perfect for users who enjoy a more intense and tactile typing sensation. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, when choosing between the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you appreciate a subtle auditory feedback and a smooth actuation, the Bsun Kiki Reds with their medium-light weighting and clacky sound signature may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heavy clicky typing experience with a sharp tactile bump, the Kailh Sage switches could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a more nuanced and refined typing sensation or a bold and invigorating feel.

Mentioned in this article

Bsun Kiki Red Linear

$4.70

$3.83 per 10

Learn more

Kailh Sage Clicky

$6.25 per 10

Learn more