Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Bsun Chiikawa - 45g

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa series offers two intriguing options with distinct nuances: the Chiikawa - 28g and the Chiikawa - 45g, both of which are linear switches. The Chiikawa - 28g is known for its exceptionally light 28g actuation force, making it an ideal choice for those who favor rapid keystrokes and a more effortless typing experience. Its bright sound profile delivers a crisp, high-pitched tone, providing an enjoyable auditory feedback that can enhance productivity and typing satisfaction. On the other hand, the Chiikawa - 45g offers a slightly more substantial actuation force at 45g, appealing to users who prefer a more deliberate typing experience, balancing responsiveness with a tactile heft that can lend greater confidence to each keystroke. Both switches boast the same bright sound profile, yet they cater to different typing preferences—whether one prioritizes speed and lightness or a more robust feedback mechanism. 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 Chiikawa - 28g Linear

Bsun Chiikawa - 45g Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and Bsun Chiikawa - 45g both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which enhances their sound performance significantly. The use of polycarbonate in their construction contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile that is a characteristic of this stiffer plastic material. Since both models utilize polycarbonate for the top section, users can expect similar sound qualities when actuating keys. The translucency of the polycarbonate also makes it ideal for RGB lighting, as it allows the light to filter through, creating an aesthetically pleasing effect that both models can deliver effectively.

While the top housings of the Chiikawa - 28g and Chiikawa - 45g are the same in material composition, the bottom housings differ, yet both are crafted from nylon. This material choice is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to its stiffer counterparts; thus, both switches will exhibit the characteristic nylon sound signature. Users will experience a softer and somewhat more muted sound when bottoming out, thanks to nylon's properties of absorption. The consistent use of nylon in both models' bottom housings ensures that they maintain this softer, rounder sound profile, even though other elements might vary between different models.

In summary, the primary differences between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and 45g lie in the weight specifications and the performance nuances that may arise from those differences, rather than in the housing materials themselves. Since both models employ the same polycarbonate for the top housing, they share a resonance that enhances their acoustic attributes. Additionally, their matching nylon bottom housings ensure they both produce similarly rich and full sounds when the switches are pressed. Despite any variations in feel or weight, users can anticipate a comparable experience in terms of sound and aesthetics, particularly when it comes to RGB lighting compatibility.

Weight

The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch differ significantly in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Chiikawa - 28g features a lighter actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it a better choice for those who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Chiikawa - 45g has a stronger actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. The difference in actuation and bottom out forces shows that the 28g switch is lighter and suitable for prolonged use, while the 45g switch is heavier, providing a firmer typing experience. Overall, users can expect a distinctly different feel between these two switches, depending on their force preferences.

Travel distance

The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch both feature an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that pressing down on either switch will provide the same tactile experience in terms of how far the key travels from the top to the bottom. Consequently, users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and responsiveness when using either type of switch, despite the difference in their actuation force. As a result, the tactile experience will remain consistent between the two models, focusing on how much pressure is required rather than the travel distance itself.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch is noted for its bright audio profile that delivers a crisp and high-pitched sound when typing. Similarly, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch shares this characteristic, producing the same bright sound profile and responsive acoustic feedback. This means that regardless of which option you choose, you can expect that distinctive, lively auditory experience when you type. However, it's important to keep in mind that the overall sound can also be influenced by your keyboard's construction, including the choice of board and keycap material.

In terms of feel, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g is celebrated for its very light actuation force, contributing to its responsive nature, making it feel effortless to type on. The Chiikawa - 45g switch, though slightly heavier, is also designed for responsiveness; however, it requires a bit more force to actuate. This difference in weight can lead to variations in typing experience, with the 28g switch feeling more nimble and suited for rapid typing, while the 45g switch may cater to those who prefer a slightly deliberate and controlled feel.

Combining all of this information, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and 45g linear switches offer a similar bright sound signature that many users find appealing. The key difference lies in the actuation force; the lighter 28g switch provides a more effortless typing experience, while the 45g variant offers a bit more resistance, which can enhance precision for some users. Ultimately, the choice between them would depend on personal typing preferences—whether you lean towards a lighter, more responsive feel or prefer a slightly heavier touch.

Conclusion

To sum up, your choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and intended usage. If you favor a lighter, more responsive switch with a bottom-out force of 34 grams, the Chiikawa - 28g is an excellent option. This switch is particularly suitable for fast typists or gamers who require quick actuation and minimal resistance, making it easier to execute rapid keystrokes. Additionally, the light feel combined with a bright sound profile will add an engaging auditory experience while you type. However, if you prefer a bit more heft in your typing experience, the Chiikawa - 45g, with its bottom-out force of 51 grams, would be more appropriate. This medium-light switch provides a balanced feel that some users find more satisfying and control-oriented, especially for longer typing sessions or more deliberate keystrokes. In essence, choose the Chiikawa - 28g for speed and nimbleness, and opt for the Chiikawa - 45g when you want a weightier feel that still maintains the crisp sound and responsiveness characteristic of the Chiikawa line.

Mentioned in this article

Bsun Chiikawa - 28g Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Chiikawa - 45g Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more