Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Akko V3 Crystal Pro
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro both represent excellent choices for fans of linear switches, yet they cater to different preferences in sound and tactile experience. The Chiikawa - 28g is lauded for its exceptionally light actuation force of just 28 grams, making it incredibly responsive and ideal for users who seek a quick and effortless typing experience. This switch is characterized by its bright sound profile, producing a crisp, high-pitched sound that injects a lively quality into each keystroke. In contrast, the V3 Crystal Pro switches offer a more robust feel with their fully polycarbonate construction, which not only contributes to a bouncy and polished tactile feedback but also delivers a distinctly chirpy sound signature. Users drawn to a silky smooth typing experience may find the Crystal Pro more appealing. While both switches promise an engaging performance and appealing sound, they cater to varied typing tastes and needs. 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
28g
Actuation force
48g
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
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Y3X
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro exhibit striking similarities in their top housing materials, both employing polycarbonate for this component. As a result, users can expect a sound profile characterized by sharpness, higher-pitched notes, and a crisp resonance. This is attributed to polycarbonate's inherent stiffness, enabling it to produce a clear and resonant sound during typing. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate enhances aesthetic features, particularly when used with RGB lighting, allowing the illumination to shine through beautifully. Therefore, both switches will deliver an exciting visual and auditory experience, making them well-suited for users who prioritize the combination of aesthetics with performance.
However, when examining the bottom housing materials, a contrast emerges. The Chiikawa - 28g utilizes nylon, a material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer characteristics that absorb sound more effectively. This results in a duller and rounder sound, which can create a satisfying typing experience, especially for those who prefer a more muted acoustic feedback. In contrast, the V3 Crystal Pro employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well, which means both switches share a similar sound profile that retains the sharpness and clarity associated with polycarbonate. This key distinction in bottom housing material indicates that the Chiikawa - 28g will yield a warmer typing experience while the V3 Crystal Pro maintains a brighter sound.
Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in each switch affects how sound and feel are experienced during usage. While the top housings of both the Chiikawa - 28g and the V3 Crystal Pro produce similar vibrant sounds, the different materials used in the bottom housing play a critical role in the overall typing experience. The Chiikawa - 28g's nylon bottom contributes to a full and rich bottom-out sound, whereas the V3 Crystal Pro with its polycarbonate bottom emphasizes a clearer and more resonant auditory feedback. Thus, while both switches can deliver enjoyable typing feedback, the nuanced interplay between the top and bottom housing materials allows each to cater to different preferences among users, showcasing the intricacies of design in mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, a clear distinction emerges in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Chiikawa switch features a notably lighter actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a gentler keystroke for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro has a heavier actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, appealing to users who appreciate a more substantial tactile experience. This difference highlights the Chiikawa switch as the lighter option, while the V3 Crystal Pro is categorized as the heavier one. Ultimately, users seeking a lighter switch for longer use would benefit from the Chiikawa, while those who prefer a firmer feel should consider the V3 Crystal Pro.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, we find that they are not the same. The Chiikawa switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the V3 Crystal Pro measures slightly longer at 3.8 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm may seem minor, but it can significantly impact the feel and performance of each switch. The shorter travel distance of the Chiikawa switch may appeal to gamers looking for quicker responsiveness, allowing for faster key presses during intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the V3 Crystal Pro may be more suitable for those who prefer a deeper, more substantial feel when typing or gaming, providing a more grounded experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding switch depth and responsiveness.
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 Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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
The sound profile of the Chiikawa - 28g linear switch is characterized by a bright and crisp high-pitched tone, which comes from its very light actuation force. This sound is indicative of a highly responsive switch, designed to provide a pleasing auditory feedback during typing. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch also features a bright and chirpy sound signature, which includes a subtle squeak that sets it apart. This distinctive acoustic quality is influenced by the switch's fully polycarbonate construction. Both switches produce a lively sound that can enhance the typing experience, though the specific character of that sound might vary slightly due to their different construction materials.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 28g linear switch excels with its very light actuation force, resulting in an extremely responsive and effortless typing experience. While there isn't detailed information on its tactile feedback, the light nature suggests a very fluid keypress. In contrast, the V3 Crystal Pro offers a bouncy feel that provides a spring-like, elastic feedback sensation. This bounciness can give the user a sense of lively responsiveness, complemented by a polished finish that results in exceptionally smooth key travel. Overall, users of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro can expect a great balance of smoothness and liveliness under their fingers, while the Chiikawa may cater more to those who prioritize a lighter touch.
In summary, both the Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch provide unique experiences defined by their sound and feel. While the Chiikawa boasts a bright, crisp sound and a very light touch, the V3 Crystal Pro combines a chirpy tone with a bouncy and polished typing sensation. For enthusiasts looking for a lively auditory feedback paired with a smooth and dynamic tactile experience, both switches hold appealing qualities, making your choice largely dependent on personal preference regarding weight and acoustic characteristics.
Conclusion
In summary, your choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound, and actuation force. If you are seeking a light and responsive switch that allows for rapid typing and provides a distinct, bright sound profile, the Chiikawa - 28g is an excellent option. Its low actuation force of just 28g makes it especially suitable for users who type with a lighter touch, favoring speed and agility over resistance. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel with a medium actuation force of 60g, the V3 Crystal Pro will cater to your needs. Its polycarbonate construction not only enhances durability but also delivers a silky smooth and bouncy typing experience, making it great for both gaming and long typing sessions. Additionally, the unique chirpy sound signature of the V3 Crystal Pro adds a playful acoustic layer to your keystrokes, which might be appealing if you value a lively and cheerful typing atmosphere. Ultimately, consider what aspects of the switches matter most to you, whether it’s the light responsiveness and crisp sound of the Chiikawa or the smooth, polished feel and bouncy feedback of the V3 Crystal Pro, to find the perfect switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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