Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Gateron CM
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron CM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron CM present intriguing choices for enthusiasts. The Chiikawa switch, known for its incredibly light 28g actuation force, offers a bright and responsive typing experience that appeals to those who prioritize speed and dexterity in their keystrokes. With a crisp, high-pitched sound profile, it’s perfect for users who enjoy the auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Gateron CM, featuring a full nylon housing, introduces a richer, deeper sound signature that sets it apart from conventional switches. Its meticulously crafted factory lube job lends an effortlessly smooth feel, while the lengthened, dual-staged spring provides a bouncy and engaging typing experience that many call "thocky." Both switches cater to different preferences: the Chiikawa ideal for those who favor lightness and responsiveness, while the CM appeals to users seeking a more substantial, polished feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
28g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Y3X
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron CM differ significantly in their top housing materials, which has a notable impact on their acoustic characteristics. The Chiikawa features a polycarbonate top housing, known for imparting a sharper and more resonant sound profile due to its stiffness. This material clearly facilitates the creation of a higher-pitched sound, making it well-suited for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback during typing. Conversely, the Gateron CM utilizes a nylon top housing, which absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a fuller and deeper audio experience. The sound profile produced by nylon is generally warmer and less crisp, catering to a different set of preferences among typists. Therefore, while the two switches may both achieve distinct audio qualities, the choice of top housing material plays a pivotal role in defining their sound characteristics.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, suggesting a similarity in how the bottom-out sound and feel will manifest across the two types. As nylon is known to absorb sound and provide a rounder auditory signature, both the Chiikawa and the CM will deliver that deeper and fuller sound when a key is bottomed out. This similarity in the bottom housing material means that regardless of the differences in the top housing, users will experience a fairly consistent auditory output when the switches are activated. Thus, the tactile and auditory feedback from the bottom of the keypress will reflect the characteristics inherent to nylon, creating a sense of cohesiveness in how these two switches behave in practice.
Ultimately, the contrast in housing materials emphasizes the different sound profiles that typists might experience when using these switches. The Chiikawa’s polycarbonate top will enhance the clarity and brightness when keys are released, while the Gateron CM’s nylon top will contribute to a softer release sound. Those who favor the distinct sharpness of the Chiikawa may find it preferable for a more lively typing experience, whereas those drawn to a more subdued sound might gravitate towards the Gateron CM. Despite both switches employing nylon in the bottom housing, which guarantees a certain roundness to the auditory feedback, the top housing's material dictates how the overall experience is shaped during use. This interplay between the two materials highlights the nuanced nature of switch design and the significant role that housing materials play in defining audio and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron CM linear switch present contrasting characteristics in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, catering to different user preferences. The Chiikawa switch features a notably lighter actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it ideal for those who favor a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Gateron CM switch demands a significantly heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience that some users may find preferable. Therefore, if you’re looking for a lightweight feel, the Chiikawa switch would be the best choice, while the Gateron CM appeals to those who appreciate a firmer push. Overall, these differences in force specificity suggest that users seeking comfort during prolonged use might lean towards the Chiikawa switch, whereas those desiring a more tactile feedback and resistance may be inclined to select the Gateron CM.
Travel distance
Both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron CM linear switch share the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This similarity ensures that users can expect a comparable feel and response when pressing down on a key with either switch. Since both switches have an identical travel distance, the typing experience will be nearly identical in terms of the key travel you feel, leading to similar results for those looking for consistency in their keyboard performance.
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 CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron CM linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Chiikawa - 28g switch is celebrated for its bright sound, producing a crisp, high-pitched tone that adds an element of responsiveness to your typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron CM switches offer a rich and deep sound signature characterized by a bassy and thocky quality. Their full nylon housing contributes to this, creating a lower frequency range that resonates with a satisfying "thud" or soft "knock" during key presses. This variety in sound may largely influence user preference, depending on whether one enjoys a lighter, more perky sound or a deeper, richer auditory feedback.
When it comes to the feel of these switches, the Chiikawa - 28g is recognized for its very light actuation force, which makes the typing experience incredibly responsive. However, specific tactile nuances of its feel—such as smoothness or friction—remain unspecified. Conversely, the Gateron CM linear switch is noted for its buttery, polished, and creamy typing experience, thanks largely to an impeccable factory lube job and a dual-staged spring design. This results in a typing sensation that feels frictionless and effortless, making it ideal for users who favor a smooth glide during keystrokes. Thus, while the Chiikawa offers a light and possibly plush experience, the CM presents a more sumptuous and seamlessly smooth interaction.
In conclusion, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and Gateron CM linear switches present distinct auditory and tactile experiences tailored to different preferences. The Chiikawa - 28g provides a bright sound profile and a light touch, ideal for those who appreciate a quick and responsive typing feedback. Meanwhile, the Gateron CM excels in delivering a deeper, more resonant sound complemented by its buttery, polished feel for a sophisticated keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will largely depend on individual taste, with both offering unique characteristics that could enhance one's mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron CM linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use cases. If you lean towards a lighter actuation force and seek a very responsive, bright-sounding typing experience, the Chiikawa - 28g would be ideal, particularly for tasks that require fast typing or gaming where speed and agility are paramount. Its crisp, high-pitched sound profile provides an engaging auditory feedback, making it a delightful option for those who appreciate lighter and quicker keystrokes. Conversely, if you prefer a more substantial feel with a deeper, richer sound, the Gateron CM linear switch shines. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force and buttery, creamy typing sensation make it perfect for prolonged typing sessions or for users who enjoy a bit more resistance while typing. The low-pitched, thocky sound profile, enhanced by its factory lube job, offers an elegant and polished experience that many typists find satisfying. Both switches provide unique attributes that cater to different styles, so consider your specific needs and preferences when making your selection.
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