Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Durock Daybreak
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Durock Daybreak switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and Durock Daybreak are two distinct options worth considering. The Chiikawa switch is celebrated for its exceptionally light 28g actuation force, allowing for quick and responsive keystrokes paired with a bright sound profile that delivers a crisp, high-pitched auditory feedback, ideal for those who favor a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak, with its heavier 67g actuation force, caters to users who prefer a more substantial touch while typing. Its muted, low-pitched sound offers a quiet operation, making it particularly suitable for office environments or shared spaces where noise discretion is vital. Both switches serve different preferences and needs; the Chiikawa is great for speedy typists who appreciate a more tactile soundscape, while the Daybreak appeals to those who desire a solid and subdued feel. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Durock Daybreak share notable similarities, particularly in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches incorporate polycarbonate, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This consistency in material choice means that users can expect a similar auditory experience when typing on either switch, especially under RGB lighting conditions. The translucence of polycarbonate in the top housing enhances its aesthetic value, making these switches particularly appealing for those who prioritize the visual aspect of their keyboard setups.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both switches is made from nylon, a material recognized for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. Nylon contributes to a rounder sound due to its softer construction, which helps absorb sound rather than amplify it. As both the Chiikawa - 28g and Durock Daybreak utilize nylon for their bottom housings, they share this characteristic, further enhancing the compatibility of their sound profiles when typing. The combination of a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom in both switches effectively balances the auditory experience, with the top contributing clarity and the bottom offering warmth.
Given that both switches utilize the same materials in their respective housings, any differences in typing experience or sound profile are likely to be minimal. Users can expect a harmonious blend of qualities with the Chiikawa - 28g and Durock Daybreak, as the distinct contributions of polycarbonate and nylon complement each other, resulting in a consistent typing experience. The impact of pressing the switches will feel familiar, with the nylon absorbing sound and ensuring a gentle bottom-out feel, while the polycarbonate top will maintain a clear and resonant sound when releasing the keys. Thus, for those considering these switches, they can anticipate a similarly gratifying experience regardless of the chosen model.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch, there are significant differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Chiikawa switch has a lightweight actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, allowing for longer periods of typing with minimal fatigue, making it ideal for long work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Daybreak switch has a notably higher bottom out force of 67 grams, which indicates a more substantial typing experience, suitable for those who prefer a stronger tactile feedback when typing. However, the actuation force for the Daybreak switch remains unspecified. Therefore, while the Chiikawa is clearly the lighter option, offering easier and more comfortable keystrokes, the Daybreak's heavier bottom out force caters to users who enjoy a firmer keystroke feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch, it becomes apparent that they differ slightly in their specifications. The Chiikawa - 28g has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, whereas the Daybreak features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. With the Chiikawa’s shorter travel distance, users will experience a snappier feel that caters well to gamers seeking quick response times. In contrast, the Daybreak's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keypress, providing a deeper and potentially more satisfying feedback when typing. Thus, individuals who prioritize responsiveness might lean towards the Chiikawa, while those who value a richer typing experience could opt for the Daybreak.
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 Durock Daybreak has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Daybreak for $5.41.
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 Bsun Chiikawa - 28g switch is characterized by its bright and high-pitched tone, which makes it quite engaging and lively during use. Typing on these switches produces a crisp response, which can make for an enjoyable and somewhat expressive auditory experience. In contrast, the Durock Daybreak switch leans towards a more muted and low-pitched sound. These switches are designed to minimize the typical clatter associated with mechanical keyboards, making them ideal for quieter environments. The Daybreak’s sound is softer and more bass-heavy, resulting in an operation that’s unobtrusive and suitable for shared spaces.
Regarding the feel of these two switches, the Chiikawa - 28g offers an extremely light actuation force, making it highly responsive and effortless to use. This lightness may contribute to a sense of speed in typing, allowing for quick and easy key presses. On the other hand, the Durock Daybreak switch features a more substantial actuation force of 67g, providing a heftier and more deliberate typing experience that many users appreciate. The Daybreak switches are noted for their polished feel, which results in a smooth and refined typing sensation due to either high-quality materials or effective factory lubrication. This contrast in weight contributes to very different user experiences, with the Chiikawa embracing a nimble and fast approach compared to the Daybreak's solid and controlled touch.
In summary, the Chiikawa - 28g switch is ideal for those seeking a bright, light, and engaging typing experience with a responsive sound profile, while the Durock Daybreak caters to those who prefer a muted, low-pitched sound and a more substantial and polished feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that appeal to different typing styles and environments. Depending on your preferences for sound and tactile feedback, your experience may vary significantly between these two options, so it’s worthwhile to consider what aspects matter most to you when choosing a switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Durock Daybreak linear switch largely depends on your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you intend to use your keyboard. If you prefer a lightweight switch that offers a quick, responsive feel and enjoy the vibrant sound profile it produces, the Chiikawa - 28g is an excellent option. Its low actuation force and high-pitched sound can enhance your typing experience, especially if you like to type at speed or in a casual setting. On the other hand, if you find comfort in a more substantial feel and prefer a quieter typing experience—particularly in professional or shared environments—the Durock Daybreak's heavier actuation force and muted sound profile would be more suitable. The smooth and polished feel of the Daybreak ensures that each keystroke is satisfying and deliberate, making it ideal for focused tasks or long hours of typing. Ultimately, consider your priorities in terms of tactile feedback, sound, and typing environment; this will guide you in selecting the switch that aligns best with your needs.
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