Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver offer distinct yet compelling experiences for users, particularly those who favor linear switches. The Chiikawa - 28g is celebrated for its remarkably light actuation force and bright sound profile, making it an excellent choice for typists who appreciate a responsive feel and a crisp, high-pitched sound with each keystroke. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are engineered with gamers in mind, boasting a shorter travel distance of just 3.4mm that enables rapid key presses, enhancing performance during high-stakes gaming sessions. Their medium-high pitch adds an exhilarating audio backdrop while still maintaining a budget-friendly appeal. Both switches cater to different preferences; the Chiikawa is perfect for those who prioritize sensitivity and sound clarity in typing, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver emphasizes speed and gaming performance. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver both feature polycarbonate top housings, which brings a remarkable similarity to their sound profiles. Polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience, providing a clear and resonant output that many users appreciate. The translucency of the polycarbonate also makes these switches suitable for RGB lighting, reflecting vibrant colors more effectively. Therefore, in terms of top housing material, both switches will produce comparable sound characteristics, resulting in a similarly bright and engaging auditory feedback when keys are released.
However, while both switches share the same type of material for their top housing, they diverge in their bottom housing composition. The Chiikawa - 28g utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon absorbs sound better due to its relatively softer composition, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience compared to harder plastics. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 Silver also features a nylon bottom housing, meaning that both switches will generate a similar impact in bottom-out sound and feel. This creates a consistent foundation in tactile feedback across both models, ensuring that users can expect a satisfying and rich response when pressing down on the keys.
When considering the overall performance of these switches, the interplay of the materials involved plays a crucial role. While both the Chiikawa - 28g and G Pro 3.0 Silver employ the same polycarbonate top housing—resulting in an invigorating sound profile—the use of nylon in their bottom housings ensures that the typing experience remains coherent and satisfying. Consequently, when pressed, both switches will deliver a consistent auditory and tactile experience. The combination of these housing materials effectively showcases how the unique properties of polycarbonate and nylon work together to create a distinct yet harmonious typing experience across these two different switches.
Weight
In comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, we see notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Chiikawa - 28g features a lighter actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it ideal for extended typing sessions and casual use. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which provides a more substantial push feel that some users may prefer for a satisfying typing experience. Consequently, the Chiikawa switch caters to those who favor a lighter touch, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver is better suited for users seeking a stronger engagement with each keystroke. Overall, if you prefer a lightweight feel for longer usage, the Bsun Chiikawa is the better choice, whereas the Gateron G Pro 3.0 will appeal to those who want a more robust typing sensation.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that if you're seeking a more responsive switch, the G Pro 3.0 Silver could be the better choice due to its shorter actuation, which allows for quicker key presses—ideal for gaming scenarios. However, the Chiikawa's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feel, catering to users who prefer a deeper keypress for a more satisfying tactile experience. Thus, those who value speed and rapid response may lean toward the G Pro 3.0 Silver, while those who appreciate a more pronounced key travel may prefer the Chiikawa - 28g.
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 G Pro 3.0 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
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 characterized by a bright sound profile that produces a crisp, high-pitched tone with each keystroke. This auditory feedback can be particularly satisfying, especially for those who appreciate a more responsive and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch features a medium-high pitched sound that adds a certain exhilaration to gaming sessions. Its sound can be best described as deep and thocky, often associated with a richer and more immersive auditory experience. While both switches offer distinct sound signatures, the Chiikawa's brightness contrasts with the deeper, more bass-oriented sound of the G Pro, making them suitable for different user preferences.
When considering feel, the Chiikawa - 28g linear switch is known for its very light actuation force, which contributes to a responsive typing experience. However, specific qualities regarding how it feels need further elaboration. In comparison, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are noted for their buttery and creamy feel, allowing for a smooth and effortless keystroke experience. This seamless typing sensation makes them particularly appealing for high-paced gaming, as users can glide quickly over the keys. The differences in feel emphasize a preference for a lighter touch versus a more luxurious, buttery glide, depending on personal typing style.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches cater to distinct preferences, offering unique auditory and tactile experiences. The Chiikawa suits those who enjoy a bright sound with light actuation, while the G Pro delivers a deep, thocky sound with a smooth feel ideal for gaming. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference, whether you prioritize that crisp response and bright sound or a creamy, buttery touch with a thocky auditory punch.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch ultimately hinges on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize an exceptionally light actuation force and a brighter, crisper sound profile, the Chiikawa switch is an excellent choice. Its low bottom-out force ensures rapid key presses, making it particularly suitable for typing tasks where comfort and light feedback are essential, such as for long writing sessions or casual computer use. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch tailored for competitive gaming, the G Pro 3.0 Silver stands out with its shorter travel distance and higher bottom-out force, providing that tactile feedback and buttery-smooth keystroke experience that gamers often seek. The deeper, thocky sound may also add a satisfying auditory element to your gameplay. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you lean more towards a casual typing experience or an intense gaming performance, guiding you toward the switch that best complements your style.
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