Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. KTT Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the KTT Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, preferences can vary widely, and two popular options that often come up in discussions are the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the KTT Cream Yellow, both of which belong to the linear switch category. The Chiikawa - 28g is renowned for its exceptionally light 28g actuation force and bright sound profile, providing a highly responsive experience with a crisp, high-pitched auditory feedback — ideal for users who prioritize quick, efficient keystrokes. Conversely, the KTT Cream Yellow stands out with its bouncy feel and distinctively clacky sound, thanks to a shortened bottom-out distance and a long-pole stem, making it perfect for those who enjoy a more tactile auditory experience while typing. Each switch has its unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences, leading to intriguing choices for enthusiasts seeking optimal performance. 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
28g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and KTT Cream Yellow switches demonstrate both similarities and distinctions that play a crucial role in the overall tactile and auditory experience. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its clarity and resonance. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is especially pronounced when using RGB lighting, as its translucence enhances the visual effects. This shared characteristic in the top housing means that when using either switch, users can anticipate a more vibrant and clear sound, leading to a similar auditory experience when the keys are released.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches differ, as both utilize nylon material. Nylon is revered for its softer properties, resulting in a deeper and more rounded sound profile. The inherent softness of nylon reduces vibrations and absorbs sound, thus providing a muted acoustic response compared to the sharper tones created by polycarbonate. This differentiation means that the overall typing experience will vary slightly based on the composition of the bottom housing, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel as users press the keys down. Nonetheless, both switches deliver a satisfying and respectable sound profile, although the Chiikawa - 28g may provide a touch more depth due to the nylon’s sound-dampening capabilities.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom is a well-regarded formula for mechanical switches, making both the Chiikawa - 28g and KTT Cream Yellow impressive choices for users seeking specific auditory and tactile feedback. Users can expect a crisp release from either switch due to the shared polycarbonate tops, while the deeper impact of the keypress will be shaped by the unique nylon bottoms. It is the interplay of these materials that creates a harmonious balance, offering a fulfilling typing experience characterized by both clarity on release and warmth on engagement, aligning the two models in both functionality and sound dynamics.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch, a noticeable difference exists in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Chiikawa switch exhibits a lighter actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, which can reduce fatigue during prolonged use. In contrast, the Cream Yellow switch has a significantly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, appealing to typists and gamers who enjoy a more substantial push feel for enhanced tactile feedback. Thus, the Chiikawa is the lighter option, while the Cream Yellow is the heavier switch. Accordingly, users should choose based on their preferences for typing comfort and experience, as the difference in force can greatly influence the typing dynamics for different usage scenarios.
Travel distance
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch differ slightly in their travel distances, with the Chiikawa having a travel distance of 3.6 mm and the Cream Yellow at 3.5 mm. This means that the Chiikawa provides a slightly longer key travel, which may appeal to users who appreciate a bit more depth in their keystrokes. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Cream Yellow could be beneficial for gamers seeking faster response times and a more immediate feedback sensation. While both switches offer travel distances that fall below the traditional norm of 4.0 mm, the Chiikawa's 3.6 mm might feel more substantial and less abrupt to those who prefer more tactile depth in their typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus a fuller key press.
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 KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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 known for its bright sound profile, which produces a crisp, high-pitched noise when typing. This responsiveness can create an engaging auditory experience for users, especially in quiet environments where the subtle sound helps to accentuate the act of typing. On the other hand, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch delivers a distinctively clacky sound, characterized by its sharp, snappy feedback. The combination of a shortened bottom-out distance and a long-pole stem enhances the resonant audio quality, making each keystroke feel more pronounced and satisfying. While both switches have their unique sound profiles, the choice between them will ultimately depend on whether you prefer the Chiikawa's bright clarity or the Cream Yellow's clacky resonance.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 28g is celebrated for its extremely light actuation force, making it notably responsive and effortless to press. This feature allows for quick typing and reduced fatigue during extended use. In comparison, the KTT Cream Yellow switch stands out with its bouncy feel, providing a spring-like feedback that enhances the overall typing experience. The combination of the longer spring and the switch design results in a lively rebound when pressed, adding a layer of fun and engagement to your interactions with the keyboard. While both offer unique tactile experiences, the Chiikawa leans towards lightness and responsiveness, while the Cream Yellow embodies a more dynamic and elastic sensation.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and KTT Cream Yellow switches present compelling characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Chiikawa shines with its bright, crisp sound and extremely light actuation force, ideal for users who favor a quick and responsive typing experience. Conversely, the Cream Yellow offers a clacky sound with a bouncy tactile feel, perfect for those who appreciate pronounced audio feedback and a lively typing sensation. The ultimate choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding sound and feel, but regardless of the selection, both can deliver satisfying results in your mechanical keyboard journey.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer an ultra-light actuation force that allows for quick and responsive keypresses, along with a bright and high-pitched sound profile, the Chiikawa - 28g is the ideal choice. This switch is well-suited for users who love fast-paced typing or gaming, where speed and precision are paramount. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more substantial feel and a satisfying clack when typing, the KTT Cream Yellow switch will likely be more appealing. With its medium bottom-out force and bouncy feedback, it offers a more traditional mechanical experience, making it fitting for those who appreciate a well-balanced and engaging typing sensation. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize a lighter, more responsive feel or a firmer, more tactile experience with audio validation.
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