Bsun Olive vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Bsun Olive and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Olive and the Outemu Crystal Brown mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to note their unique qualities. The Bsun Olive is a tactile switch that stands out for its all-POM housings, delivering a resonant and deep sound that is distinctly satisfying. It offers medium weight with pronounced tactile feedback and a crisp bottom-out, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy an accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Crystal Brown is also a tactile switch, but lacks the unique design elements and characteristics that set the Bsun Olive apart. While both switches offer tactile feedback, the Crystal Brown does not have a specific standout feature. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsuns Olive and the Outemu Crystal Brown, one can see a clear difference in the sound profiles produced by the switches. The Olive's POM top and bottom housings create a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Crystal Brown's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This distinction in sound quality is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate and the softness of nylon, which affect the way sound is absorbed and resonated within the switches.
Aesthetically, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Outemu Crystal Brown allows for a clear and translucent appearance, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the POM top housing of the Bsuns Olive lacks translucency but still provides a pleasing sound profile that is unique in its own right. While the materials used in the top housing differ between the two switches, they both contribute to the overall sound experience when typing on the switches.
Overall, the choice between the Bsuns Olive and the Outemu Crystal Brown ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and aesthetics. The POM and polycarbonate housings offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the POM housing emphasizing a deeper and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate housing produces a crisper and sharper sound. Whether one enjoys a softer, fuller sound or a clearer, higher-pitched sound, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience for different users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, we can see that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Olive has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Crystal Brown has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that while the initial keystroke on both switches will feel the same in terms of force required, the Olive will provide a more substantial typing experience due to the heavier bottom out force compared to the Crystal Brown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Crystal Brown, while those who enjoy a heavier push feel may opt for the Olive. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Bsun Olive tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter compared to the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Olive offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers looking for faster inputs. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feedback when typing. Both switches have their own advantages depending on personal preferences, with the Olive being the shorter option and the Crystal Brown offering a longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
The Outemu Crystal Brown comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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
Based on the available information, the Bsun Olive tactile switch is known for delivering a resonant and deep sound with a pronounced tactile feedback, resulting in a satisfying auditory experience. The long pole stem design adds to the crisp bottom-out feel. In contrast, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is not available, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Bsun Olive is described as having an accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy tactile experience. This means that users can expect a medium tactile switch with a prominent amount of tactility, creating an immersive typing sensation. The sharp and snappy tactile bump provides a distinct and responsive typing feel. Unfortunately, there is no available information on the feel of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, making it challenging to contrast the two switches in this regard.
In conclusion, while the Olive switch showcases a unique sound profile and a tactile experience that is characterized by its pronounced feedback and sharp bottom-out, the details on the Outemu Crystal Brown switch are lacking. If you enjoy a switch with a satisfying auditory and tactile experience, the Bsun Olive tactile switch may be a suitable choice. If you are looking for a similar experience, you may find that the Outemu Crystal Brown switch could provide comparable results. Remember, individual preferences and the overall keyboard setup will also play a significant role in the sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the BSUN Olive tactile switch or the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, you should first think about your preference in terms of tactile feedback, actuation force, and sound. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for an invigorating, sharp, and snappy tactile feel with a resonant, deep sound, then the Olive switches with their unique design and long pole stem may be ideal for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and are looking for a switch that is accentuated, immersive, and snappy, then the Crystal Brown switches might be more suitable for your typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
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