Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Gateron CJ
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron CJ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices among enthusiasts are the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron CJ, both of which are linear switches but offer distinct experiences. The Chiikawa - 28g is celebrated for its exceptionally light actuation force of just 28 grams, making it incredibly responsive and perfect for fast typists or gamers looking for quick input. Its bright sound profile produces a crisp, high-pitched auditory feedback, adding an engaging auditory element to the typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron CJ presents a unique take on the linear switch concept, boasting a higher-pitched clack and an impressively smooth actuation that provides a delightful tactile experience. Described as 'chirpy,' 'neutral,' and even 'thocky,' the CJ’s sound and feel cater to those who appreciate a more nuanced auditory feedback while typing. Choosing the Chiikawa - 28g may appeal to those who prioritize speed and responsiveness, while the Gateron CJ might attract those seeking a more harmonious blend of sound and smoothness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
28g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Y3X
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron CJ, we observe notable differences and similarities that ultimately influence their sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Chiikawa - 28g utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and clarity, producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound when pressed. This characteristic makes it particularly well-suited for setups utilizing RGB lighting, as its translucency enhances the aesthetic appeal. In contrast, the Gateron CJ features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which also produces a pointed and somewhat high-pitched sound, though it is described as less sharp than that of the Chiikawa. While both materials contribute to a bright sound, the nuances in their acoustic properties mean that the Gateron CJ might offer a clackier feel while still maintaining tonal clarity.
Examining the bottom housings reveals a different story. The Chiikawa - 28g employs a nylon bottom housing, celebrated for its ability to create a fuller and deeper sound profile. This softer plastic absorbs more sound, generating a duller resonance that can provide a pleasant typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron CJ integrates POM as its bottom housing material. POM is known for producing a muted and deep sound, which contrasts with nylon's softer, velvety characteristics. While both switches use different materials for their bottom housings, they both offer a deeper acoustic experience, albeit through distinct attributes that shape how each switch feels and sounds during use.
The interaction between each switch's top and bottom housing materials ultimately influences the overall typing experience. While the Chiikawa - 28g’s polycarbonate top resonates with a clearer, crisper sound, its nylon base offsets this with a fuller tone, resulting in a balanced auditory experience. Conversely, the Gateron CJ, with its INK blend top housing complementing its POM bottom housing, offers a clacky sound paired with a unique, muted depth. Although they rely on different materials, both switches can yield similar results in terms of lively sound profiles, giving users an engaging typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference regarding sound and feel, as both can deliver satisfying outcomes despite their material differences.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces are quite pronounced. The Chiikawa switch has a light actuation force of 28 grams, making it suitable for extended typing sessions without much fatigue, while its bottom out force of 34 grams provides a mild resistance that some may appreciate for a less abrupt feel. In contrast, the Gateron CJ switch comes in at a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which caters to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Essentially, the Chiikawa is the lighter option, making it ideal for those who prioritize comfort and endurance, while the Gateron CJ is the heavier switch for individuals seeking a firmer typing feel. The substantial difference in their forces suggests that users will experience dissimilar typing dynamics, with the Chiikawa being easier to press down and the CJ requiring more force to activate.
Travel distance
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron CJ linear switch features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Chiikawa slightly shorter, appealing to those who prefer a quicker response time typical of shorter switches, which can enhance gaming performance. In contrast, the CJ switch's 4 mm travel distance offers a more traditional feel, which some users might favor for its hearty depth when pressing keys. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Chiikawa could be the better option, whereas the Gateron CJ would suit those who appreciate a more substantial tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g 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 - 28g for $3.29.
The Gateron CJ has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CJ for $5.35.
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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch is renowned for its bright sound profile, celebrated for producing a crisp, high-pitched sound while typing. This characteristic makes it highly responsive and enjoyable for users who appreciate a more energetic auditory feedback. In contrast, the Gateron CJ linear switch has a more complex acoustic signature, featuring higher-pitched clacks complemented by a distinctive "chirpy" quality that incorporates a slight squeak. This unique sound adds character to the typing experience, setting the CJ switches apart from many others in the market. While both switches offer appealing sound profiles, the Chiikawa leans towards brightness and clarity, whereas the CJ provides a richer variety of tones.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g’s attributes are less defined, suggesting it may possess a very light actuation force that emphasizes responsiveness. In comparison, the Gateron CJ linear switch offers a mild feel that creates a gentle typing experience. This milder response contributes to an easily approachable switch that suits a wide range of typing preferences, making it friendly for both beginners and seasoned users. While the Chiikawa's feel is less characterized, the CJ's smooth push feel can be reassuringly consistent and satisfying during long typing sessions.
Considering the available information, both the Chiikawa - 28g and Gateron CJ linear switches present enticing options for different users. The Chiikawa excels with its bright sound and light actuation, appealing to those who enjoy an energetic typing experience. Meanwhile, the CJ offers a unique acoustic signature with its chirpy clacks and a smoother push feel that can appeal to those who prefer a gentle touch. Ultimately, both switches can deliver similar enjoyable typing experiences, but their distinct auditory and tactile qualities may resonate differently with individual preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you favor an ultra-light actuation force and a bright, high-pitched sound profile that offers a quick and responsive typing experience, the Chiikawa - 28g would be an excellent fit for you. It is particularly well-suited for gaming or fast-paced typing where every millisecond counts, and its crisp acoustics will certainly add a touch of fun to your keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a more balanced typing experience with a medium bottom-out force and a versatile sound profile, the Gateron CJ switch is likely more aligned with your needs. Its mix of chirpy and thocky sounds, combined with a mild feedback feel, makes it suitable for both office environments and home use. Therefore, consider how you want to balance responsiveness, sound, and comfort, and choose the switch that will enhance your overall typing satisfaction.
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