Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the diverse world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish stand out as compelling choices, each catering to different typing preferences. The Chiikawa - 28g, with its linear mechanism, boasts a remarkably light actuation force and an exuberant sound profile, delivering a responsive and snappy typing experience that many gamers and fast typists find appealing. Its bright auditory feedback can make typing feel lively and enjoyable. In contrast, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish, a tactile switch, is designed for those who appreciate feedback without the loud sound of a click. With its medium weight and neutral sound signature, it strikes an excellent balance, making it an accessible choice for users seeking a dependable and versatile switch for both typing and gaming. While the Chiikawa - 28g may attract those looking for speed and auditory excitement, the EverFree offers a more nuanced experience for those who favor tactile engagement. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
28g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a remarkably similar acoustic profile. Polycarbonate is known for its superior stiffness compared to other plastics, contributing to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when keystrokes are engaged. Both switches exhibit a clear translucency, making them ideal for RGB lighting setups, enhancing their visual appeal in illuminated keyboard environments. Thus, users can expect to achieve a consistent sound profile and aesthetic when using either switch, making them interchangeable for those who favor a bright and resonant audio experience.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the Chiikawa - 28g and the EverFree (EF) Grayish are made from nylon, a classic material known for its sound-absorbing qualities. The use of nylon results in a deeper and fuller auditory experience, delivering a richer and more rounded sound profile when typing. Given that nylon is a softer plastic, it contrasts starkly with the properties of polycarbonate used in the top housing. This division in material affects how users perceive sound while interacting with the keyboard, as the blunt characteristics of nylon will dominate the bottom-out sound and feel, while the clear and sharper qualities from the polycarbonate top will resonate during the release of each key.
Ultimately, while the top housing of both switches employs polycarbonate, creating a unified auditory experience during keystrokes, the nylon bottom housing uniquely enhances the feel and sound during key bottom-outs. By using a combination of a polycarbonate top and a nylon bottom, both the Chiikawa - 28g and EverFree (EF) Grayish allow enthusiasts to enjoy a versatile typing experience that balances crispness and warmth. Users who appreciate the distinct sound and tactile feedback resulting from these unique material pairings will find that both switches deliver similar yet richly textured typing experiences, catering to different preferences in acoustic and tactile responses.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, a clear distinction emerges in their characteristics. The Chiikawa switch features a relatively light actuation force of 28 grams, making it ideal for users who favor softer keystrokes that can facilitate longer typing sessions with less fatigue. Its bottom out force is 34 grams, providing a gentle yet satisfying feedback when the key is fully pressed down. In contrast, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch has a significantly heavier actuation force of 59 grams, which will appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, giving a firmer response at each keystroke. However, the bottom out force for the EverFree is unknown, leaving a gap in its performance metrics. Therefore, while the Chiikawa switch is the lighter option with a lower actuation force, the EverFree provides a more weighty experience, catering to different preferences among typists and gamers alike.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, it is evident that they cater to different preferences. The Chiikawa - 28g boasts a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the longer option, while the EverFree (EF) Grayish has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference suggests that users who prioritize a more tactile and pronounced feedback may prefer the Chiikawa switch, as it provides a deeper feel when pressed. Conversely, gamers and those who favor faster response times might gravitate towards the EverFree switch, as its shorter travel distance facilitates quicker key presses. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on individual tactile preferences and the desired level of responsiveness, with the Chiikawa offering a more hearty depth and the EverFree providing a more immediate feel.
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 EverFree (EF) Grayish has an MSRP of $2.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EverFree (EF) Grayish for $2.69.
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 recognized for its bright sound profile, characterized by a crisp, high-pitched sound when typing. This lively audio feedback can contribute to a more engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch features a neutral sound signature that is more subdued and balanced. This makes it versatile for a variety of environments, whether at home or in an office, catering to those looking for a moderate acoustic experience. While both switches provide distinct auditory signatures, the Chiikawa leans towards a more pronounced sound, whereas the EverFree offers a quieter, more neutral option.
When evaluating the feel of each switch, the Chiikawa - 28g stands out for its very light actuation force, resulting in an ultra-responsive typing experience that can feel almost effortless. This makes it particularly appealing for users who prefer a lighter touch without the resistance often associated with heavier switches. In contrast, the EverFree (EF) Grayish is described as a stepped tactile switch, offering a mild tactile bump that provides feedback at two stages during the keystroke. Its snappy nature enhances the typing experience, making it feel lively and engaging. So, while the Chiikawa focuses on responsiveness and lightness, the EverFree balances tactile feedback with a slightly more substantial resistance.
In conclusion, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish ultimately depends on personal preference regarding sound and feel. The Chiikawa is an excellent option for those who enjoy a bright, lively sound and a very light actuation for quick typing, while the EverFree caters to users looking for a neutral sound profile with reliable tactile feedback and a medium weight. Both switches can provide enjoyable typing experiences, but they distinctly serve different typing styles, ensuring there’s something to suit a range of preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you favor a very light actuation and appreciate a bright, crisp sound profile, the Chiikawa - 28g is an excellent choice, making it ideal for gamers or typists who enjoy a snappy response and wish to reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a more balanced typing experience with a tactile feedback that doesn't feel overwhelming, the EverFree (EF) Grayish is a stellar option. Its neutral sound signature and slightly heavier actuation are well-suited for everyday use, whether at home or in the office, catering to both beginners and experienced typists who seek a reliable all-purpose switch. Ultimately, the decision should reflect your personal preferences in sound, actuation force, and feel to enhance your overall typing experience.
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