Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. HMX FJ400
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the HMX FJ400 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the pros and cons of different options to find the perfect fit for their typing style and preferences. The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g stands out with its notably light actuation force and bright sound profile, making it an enticing choice for those who prioritize responsiveness and a crisp auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the HMX FJ400 offers a balanced sound profile and serves as a versatile middle ground within the HMX Film switch lineup, appealing to users seeking a more tempered typing experience without sacrificing performance. Both switches bring their unique characteristics to the table: the Chiikawa - 28g excelling in speed and auditory clarity, while the FJ400 provides a harmonious balance of sound and actuation. 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
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
T2
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
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 Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the HMX FJ400 utilize different materials for their top housings, which contributes significantly to their overall sound profiles. The Chiikawa - 28g features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its rigidity and translucence. This material facilitates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound that tends to resonate clearly, making it particularly effective for RGB lighting scenarios. In contrast, the FJ400 employs a POM top housing, resulting in a sound profile that leans toward the deeper and more muted end of the spectrum. Thus, while both switches aim to provide unique auditory experiences, their differing top housing materials lead to distinctly different sound signatures, with polycarbonate producing a more vibrant tone compared to the subdued notes of POM.
Both switches, however, share a commonality in their bottom housing, as both use nylon. The Chiikawa - 28g’s nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic properties, which absorb sound and give it a rounded character. Similarly, the FJ400’s nylon bottom housing also contributes to a warm, muted auditory experience. This shared aspect becomes particularly relevant when it comes to the overall sound and feel of the switches. As both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, they will exhibit similar deeper and fuller tones when pressed, regardless of the differences in their top housing materials.
When comparing these two switches overall, it becomes apparent that the interaction between the different materials in their constructions leads to nuanced differences in sound and feel. The Chiikawa - 28g offers a bright, resonant experience owing to its polycarbonate top housing, while the FJ400 provides a uniquely pleasing, deeper sound through its POM top housing. Nonetheless, since both switches employ nylon for the bottom housing, they will share correspondingly rich and round sound qualities during key presses. Consequently, while users may enjoy unique auditory traits from each switch due to the differing top materials, the deeper sound experience is a common thread that ties both models together.
Weight
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch present distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Chiikawa switch features a light actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons, as it requires less effort to press down each key. In contrast, the FJ400 has a considerably heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. As a result, those who prioritize a lighter switch for ease of use will find the Chiikawa - 28g more suitable, whereas users desiring a firmer resistance may favor the FJ400. Ultimately, the key differences in actuation and bottom out forces underscore the distinct use cases each switch addresses.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch, we find that the Chiikawa - 28g has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, whereas the FJ400 has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Chiikawa - 28g the shorter option between the two. For gamers seeking quicker response times, the shorter travel distance of the Chiikawa switch may provide a more immediate feedback, which can be advantageous in fast-paced scenarios. However, those who prefer a more pronounced depth when pressing keys might lean towards the FJ400, as its longer travel distance could offer a more satisfying tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding responsiveness versus depth.
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 FJ400 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the FJ400 for $3.29.
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 Chiikawa - 28g linear switch is characterized by a bright and crisp sound profile, producing a high-pitched tone that adds an engaging auditory element to your typing experience. This makes the Chiikawa a delight for users who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. Conversely, the HMX FJ400 offers a more balanced sound profile, making it less piercing than the Chiikawa. This middle-ground quality can appeal to those who prefer a more subdued auditory experience without sacrificing clarity. Both switches' sound output can be influenced by various factors, including the specific keyboard they are mounted in and the type of keycaps used, so the actual sound may vary based on your setup.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 28g linear switch is known for its very light actuation force, allowing for swift and responsive keystrokes that can enhance typing speed. Its design encourages a nimble typing experience, making it suitable for both casual typists and gamers who value quick reactions. On the other hand, the HMX FJ400 provides a solid yet approachable feel, striking a balance that most users find comfortable. While it is also a linear switch, its feedback may be slightly more pronounced than that of the Chiikawa, catering to those who prefer a middle-ground sensation without being overly rigid or soft.
In conclusion, both the Chiikawa - 28g and HMX FJ400 linear switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences. The Chiikawa excels with its bright sound and very light actuation, perfect for those who cherish a vibrant typing experience, while the FJ400 stands out with its balanced sound and comfortable feel, appealing to a wider range of preferences. Choosing between them will largely depend on individual taste: if you prefer a lively sound with a highly responsive feel, go for the Chiikawa, while those looking for a more subdued yet reliable typing experience might favor the FJ400. Overall, both switches can provide satisfying results depending on the desired characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the type of experience you want. If you're drawn to a lightweight switch that features a very light actuation force and a bright, crisp sound profile, the Chiikawa - 28g is likely the better choice for you. This switch allows for rapid keystrokes and can enhance your typing speed, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming or for users who prefer a more sensitive touch while typing. Conversely, if you prefer a more structured feel with a firmer bottom-out force, the HMX FJ400 might suit you better. With its balanced sound profile and medium force, it offers a more stable typing experience that can reduce finger fatigue during long writing sessions, making it a good option for typists and gamers who value a more solid keystroke. Ultimately, your choice should align with your typing style, preferences for sound and actuation weight, and how you use your mechanical keyboard in daily tasks.
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