Gateron Aliaz vs. Bsun Chiikawa - 45g
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often boils down to personal preference and typing style. The Gateron Aliaz switches cater well to users in quiet environments, such as offices, thanks to their silent design and tactile feedback, striking a balance between a satisfying keystroke and minimal noise disruption. With a medium-heavy weight, the Aliaz offers a pleasantly substantial feel, making it the ideal choice for those who appreciate a pronounced typing experience without the cacophony typically associated with mechanical switches. In contrast, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g switches are characterized by their light actuation force and vibrant sound profile, providing an exhilarating typing experience with each keystroke punctuated by a crisp, high-pitched sound. This makes them exceptionally responsive, appealing to gamers or typists who prefer a snappy feel and an engaging auditory feedback during use. Each switch offers a unique set of traits that cater to different work environments and user preferences; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
51g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3X
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g, we find both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, a material known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This consistency in top housing material suggests that users can expect similar acoustic characteristics when typing with either switch. Due to polycarbonate’s stiffness, both switches provide clear and resonant feedback during use, which is advantageous for enthusiasts who appreciate a more pronounced auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal of the switches, particularly for users looking to showcase RGB lighting, as it allows light to shine through vibrantly.
On the contrary, the bottom housings of these switches differ significantly in material. The Aliaz utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a consistent sound profile across the entire switch, allowing for a more uniform tactile feedback experience. This choice aligns well with the attributes of its top housing, enabling a coherent sound signature. In contrast, the Chiikawa - 45g opts for a nylon bottom housing, which is recognized for its softer and more absorbent nature. This material change results in a deeper, fuller sound profile, affecting the overall auditory feedback when bottoming out during typing, thus providing a distinct contrast to the Aliaz.
The differing bottom housing materials in these two switches lead to varied sound and tactile experiences, despite their shared polycarbonate tops. While pressing the keys on both switches would yield that pronounced sound due to their identical top housing, the Chiikawa’s nylon bottom housing introduces a unique depth and roundness to the overall typing experience. Therefore, users can expect a richer auditory experience with the Chiikawa - 45g, while the Aliaz maintains a sharper, more crystallized tone throughout. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, and the choice between them hinges upon whether one prioritizes a fully cohesive sound profile or a diversified auditory feedback character.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch, a noticeable difference in actuation and bottom out forces becomes evident. The Aliaz switch features a significantly heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Chiikawa switch offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams, catering to those who favor a more effortless typing feel, ideal for extended use during work or gaming sessions. Consequently, the Aliaz is the heavier switch, creating a firmer resistance, while the Chiikawa is lighter, requiring less force to actuate and bottom out. If the actuation force and bottom out force had been equal, users would enjoy a similarly consistent typing experience, but here, each switch presents distinct tactile characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Aliaz has a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the more traditional travel distances that many users find comfortable, particularly those who appreciate a more substantial keystroke feel. In contrast, the Chiikawa - 45g features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, catering to gamers and users who prefer quicker response times due to the reduced distance that the key must travel. This difference means that if you opt for the Aliaz, you will experience a deeper, more tactile feedback, while selecting the Chiikawa will lead to a more rapid actuation, which may feel less pronounced. Ultimately, the Aliaz provides a longer travel distance, making it preferable for those who seek a robust keystroke, whereas the Chiikawa offers the benefits of a shorter travel for improved responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Chiikawa - 45g 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Aliaz switches are designed for a quieter typing experience, making them ideal for environments where noise reduction is essential, like offices. They produce a muted sound that minimizes the typical auditory feedback associated with mechanical keyboards, ensuring that each keystroke is less likely to disrupt those nearby. In contrast, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g switches are known for their bright sound profile, offering a crisp and high-pitched tone when typing. This could be appealing for users who enjoy an audible response from their keyboard, but it also means that the Chiikawa switches are less suited for quiet environments.
In terms of feel, the Aliaz switches stand out with their luxurious silky and polished characteristics. They provide an exceptionally smooth typing experience, enhancing the overall fluidity when pressing and releasing keys. This is due in part to the materials used and possibly factory lubrication, which results in reduced friction and a refined touch. On the opposite end of the spectrum, the Chiikawa - 45g switches are characterized by their very light actuation force, offering a more responsive feel that may appeal to typists who enjoy a less pronounced tactile feedback. However, the lack of additional descriptors means that detailed nuances of their tactile feedback remain less defined.
Overall, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard experience. The Aliaz’s muted sound and smooth feel make it a strong choice for those prioritizing quietness and a refined typing experience, while the Chiikawa switches cater to users who enjoy a brighter sound and a more responsive touch. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on whether you value subdued acoustics and a silky typing feel or prefer auditory feedback and lighter key presses.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the environment in which you’ll use your keyboard. If you seek a silent typing experience and are often in quieter settings, such as an office, the Aliaz is the clear winner. Its medium-heavy weight creates a satisfying tactile feel with a muted sound profile that ensures you can type without disturbing others. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter, more responsive keystroke and prefer a keyboard that offers a brighter sound profile, the Chiikawa - 45g will serve you well. With its lighter actuation force, this switch allows for quicker and effortless typing, making it ideal for gaming or fast-paced tasks where every millisecond counts. Ultimately, consider your priorities—whether you favor a solid, quieter typing experience or a light, crisp feedback—and let that guide your choice between these two excellent options.
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