Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 White
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White both offer unique experiences tailored to the preferences of different typists. The Chiikawa - 28g is celebrated for its exceptionally light actuation force of just 28 grams, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize responsiveness and speed in their typing. Additionally, its bright sound profile delivers a crisp, high-pitched sound with each keystroke, appealing to users who enjoy auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White, although slightly heavier at 38 grams, presents a meticulously crafted typing experience that caters to delicate typists seeking a budget-friendly option. With a frosted light diffuser that enhances RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch that provides satisfying auditory feedback, this switch allows for an engaging typing experience without compromising quality. Ultimately, both switches have their advantages depending on your typing style and sound preferences; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
28g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switches share notable similarities, particularly in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches employ polycarbonate, which is recognized for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of the polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant audio experience, making it an ideal choice for RGB lighting applications due to its translucency. Thus, users can expect to have comparable sound characteristics when utilizing either switch, especially when it comes to the sound produced during key releases that are influenced by the top housing.
However, the two switches differ in their bottom housing materials, with the Chiikawa - 28g and G Pro 3.0 White both utilizing nylon. This classic switch housing material is known for its softer properties that create a deeper and fuller sound profile, contrasting the sharper sound of polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing dampens sound more effectively due to its relatively softer composition, leading to a rounder audio experience upon key presses. Consequently, while both switches may deliver clear sounds when released, the sound produced during typing will feel different—duller and deeper with the chiikawa due to nylon's absorbent qualities, compared to a more lively resonance in other configurations.
Ultimately, the unique combination of housing materials in both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and Gateron G Pro 3.0 White creates a blend of audio characteristics that highlights the strengths of each material. Users may find that while the top housing imparts a sharper sound profile due to polycarbonate, the bottom housing shapes the overall auditory experience with a fuller, more muted response. Therefore, while both switches utilize the same materials for their respective top and bottom housings, the interaction between polycarbonate and nylon manifests differently, affecting both the tactile and auditory feedback experienced during use.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different preferences. The Chiikawa switch features a lighter actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch and longer typing sessions. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 White has a heavier actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing. As a result, while the Chiikawa switch is the lighter option, providing ease of use for extended sessions, the G Pro 3.0 White is the heavier choice, offering a more robust typing sensation. These differences in actuation and bottom out forces will lead to distinct user experiences, so the decision largely depends on individual preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, we find that the Chiikawa has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 White measures 4.0 mm. This makes the Chiikawa the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel that may cater to gamers seeking quicker actuation. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 White, with its longer 4.0 mm travel distance, provides a deeper, more traditional typing experience that some users may prefer for its more substantial feedback. Thus, while both switches serve different preferences, those who enjoy a faster response may favor the Chiikawa, whereas those who appreciate a more pronounced depth might opt for the Gateron.
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 White 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 White 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 known for its bright sound profile, producing a crisp, high-pitched sound that enhances the auditory experience of typing. This sharpness contrasts with the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White, which offers a more varied acoustic character. The G Pro White can lean towards a clacky sound, generating a sharp and snappy feedback with its medium-high pitch, while it can also exhibit neutral or subdued sound qualities depending on various factors. Consequently, the Chiikawa gives a clearer high-end tone, while the G Pro 3.0 White provides a more balanced sound that can be either sharp or soft, making them suitable for different preferences in auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 28g is celebrated for its extremely light actuation force, which contributes to a responsive typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue. Meanwhile, the G Pro 3.0 White also emphasizes a lightweight feel, classified as creamy and easy-to-press, ensuring effortless key activation. This switch enhances the typing experience further by providing a silky sensation, allowing fingers to glide smoothly over the keys. Both switches facilitate a comfortable and gentle typing experience, making them ideal for extended sessions, whether for work or gaming. The G Pro's additional characteristics of subtle and feathery sensations may complement the Chiikawa’s lightweight profile, ensuring a highly enjoyable interaction with the keyboard.
In conclusion, while both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switches excel in delivering a light actuation force and a comfortable typing feel, they diverge in their sound profiles. The Chiikawa offers a brighter, crisper sound, whereas the G Pro 3.0 White provides more acoustic variety with its potential for clackiness or subdued tones. Ultimately, if you seek a lightweight feel and an enjoyable typing experience, either switch will meet those requirements, but your choice will depend on your personal preference for sound characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch ultimately comes down to your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you favor a much lighter actuation force for quicker, more responsive typing, especially in fast-paced gaming or touch typing scenarios, the Chiikawa - 28g with its 34-gram bottom-out force is an excellent choice. Its unique sound profile, characterized by a bright and high-pitched tone, makes it particularly enjoyable for those who appreciate an auditory feedback during their typing experience. On the other hand, if you seek a balance of lightness and a slightly more pronounced tactile feedback, the G Pro 3.0 White, with a slightly firmer 45-gram bottom-out force, might be more to your liking. It's ideal for both gaming and productive tasks, providing that creamy, smooth typing feel with a pleasing clacky sound that's not too overwhelming. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your comfort, typing style, and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard, ensuring that you enjoy a truly personalized typing experience.
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