Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. HMX EMO
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the HMX EMO 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 the HMX EMO stand out as notable options, each with their distinct characteristics tailored for different typing preferences. The Chiikawa - 28g is celebrated for its exceptionally light 28g actuation force, allowing for an incredibly responsive typing experience that produces a bright, high-pitched sound profile—a delight for those who enjoy auditory feedback. On the other hand, the HMX EMO features a bouncy, lively feel with a slightly heavier 46g bottom-out force, which, paired with its exceptional factory lubrication, provides a smooth and satisfying typing experience that many users find irresistible. While both switches are linear and designed to enhance typing pleasure, one might choose the Chiikawa for its lightweight and crisp feedback, while the EMO is perfect for those who appreciate a bit more weight and a clacky sensation. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials for both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the HMX EMO switches share notable similarities, particularly with their top housing made of polycarbonate. This common choice in both switches results in an enhanced auditory experience characterized by sharper, higher-pitched sounds that are crisper and more defined. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to this resonant sound profile, ensuring that users enjoy an engaging typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate not only aids in producing vivid RGB lighting effects but also enhances the visual aesthetic of the switch, as a clear housing typically indicates the presence of this material.
Contrasting the top housing, both the Chiikawa - 28g and the HMX EMO employ nylon for their bottom housings. This material is recognized for its unique acoustic properties, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon effectively absorbs more sound, leading to a rounder and more muted auditory experience, which balances out the higher-pitched tones produced by the polycarbonate top. This combination of materials in both switches results in a distinctive sound profile that blends higher clarity from the polycarbonate and a more subdued depth from the nylon, creating a well-rounded typing sensation across various key presses.
When considering the overall performance of these switches, it is important to note that the interplay between the top and bottom housing materials influences the sound and feel of each keystroke. The polycarbonate top housing primarily impacts the sound produced as the key is released, while the nylon bottom housing significantly affects the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback upon pressing the key down. Since the materials are consistent across both models, users can expect a similar auditory experience whether they opt for the Chiikawa - 28g or the HMX EMO. Both switches highlight a deliberate choice of materials that results in a balanced sound profile, making them suitable for a range of typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch to the HMX EMO linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Chiikawa switch features a lightweight actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a lighter typing experience that is ideal for long periods of use, such as in office settings or during extended gaming sessions. In contrast, the HMX EMO switch has a heavier actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel while typing. Overall, the Chiikawa switch is the lighter option, while the EMO switch is the heavier one, suggesting that users will achieve distinct tactile experiences based on their preferences for force sensitivity.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the HMX EMO linear switch, the Chiikawa features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the EMO has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This indicates that if you're seeking a more responsive typing experience, the EMO might be the better option due to its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers who prefer quick response times. Conversely, the Chiikawa's longer travel distance could be more appealing for users who appreciate the tactile feedback of a deeper keystroke and find shorter distances to feel too abrupt. Overall, the Chiikawa - 28g linear switch offers a more substantial feel, while the EMO provides a slight edge in 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 HMX EMO has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EMO for $2.79.
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 best known for its bright sound profile, characterized by a crisp, high-pitched sound that adds a lively auditory element to the typing experience. This makes it stand out particularly in environments where the switch's distinctive character can be appreciated. On the other hand, the HMX EMO linear switch offers a lively, clacky auditory experience, which implies a more resonant sound when typing. However, it is important to note that the overall sound of a switch is influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard frame and keycap materials, meaning that ultimately, both switches have the potential to produce engaging auditory feedback but in different tonal qualities.
When discussing feel, the Chiikawa - 28g is renowned for its very light actuation force of 28g, making it quite responsive, allowing for quick typing without much resistance. This contributes to a feather-light experience that many users appreciate for speed and efficiency. Conversely, the HMX EMO switch has a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 46g but is noted for its exceptionally factory-lubed mechanics and a bouncy feel. This combination results in a smooth and satisfying typing experience, striking a balance between lightness and tactile feedback but offering more weight compared to the Chiikawa.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and HMX EMO linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences among typists. The Chiikawa focuses on a crisp, high-pitched sound and an ultra-light feel, making it ideal for rapid, responsive typing. Meanwhile, the EMO switch provides a lively clack and a smooth, bouncy experience, albeit with a heavier bottom-out force. Depending on your typing style and sound preference, either switch can deliver an enjoyable experience, but they will do so with distinctly different characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the HMX EMO linear switch, you should consider your typing preferences and intended usage. If you favor a lighter touch and enjoy a bright, responsive typing experience, the Chiikawa - 28g is an excellent choice. With its 28g actuation force and a bottom-out force of just 34 grams, you’ll find it easy to type quickly and accurately, making it a great option for gaming or fast-paced typing where quick actuation is essential. Moreover, if you appreciate a crisp high-pitched sound, the Chiikawa - 28g will enhance your auditory satisfaction without overwhelming you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bit more resistance with a lively, clacky feel, the HMX EMO linear switch is worth considering. Although it has a bottom-out force of 46 grams, the factory lubrication ensures that your keystrokes feel smooth and effortless. This switch also provides a satisfying bounce, making it an ideal choice for typists who enjoy a tactile feedback experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value a super light touch with a bright sound (Chiikawa - 28g) or a more substantial, enjoyable feel with a lively acoustics (HMX EMO).
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