Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. KTT Glimp
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the KTT Glimp switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the KTT Glimp offer distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The Chiikawa - 28g is celebrated for its exceptionally light actuation force and bright sound profile, allowing for a highly responsive and exhilarating typing experience with each keystroke. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prioritize speed and a crisp auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the KTT Glimp strikes a harmonious balance with its medium-light actuation force, providing a more substantial typing experience without overwhelming resistance. The Glimp also introduces tactile feedback and a clacky sound profile that many users find enjoyable and satisfying. While both switches fall under the linear category, they present unique characteristics that can greatly influence your typing comfort and enjoyment. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the KTT Glimp exhibit remarkable similarities, particularly in their top housing composition. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clearer resonance of the sound produced when the key is pressed. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate in these switches makes them well-suited for RGB lighting setups, as both switches showcase the illuminated effect beautifully. Therefore, users of either switch can expect a vivid and engaging visual experience coupled with an enhanced auditory response.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both the Chiikawa - 28g and the KTT Glimp utilize nylon—a classic choice in switch design. The properties of nylon lead to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which effectively absorbs sound waves. This results in a more muted bottom-out sound, creating a smoother and more rounded typing experience. The consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing for both switches means that users will experience similar tactile feedback and audio characteristics when bottoming out a switch, regardless of brand. This shared material choice ensures that both switches can evoke a satisfying typing feel that caters to those who prefer a more cushioned response.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate for the top and nylon for the bottom housing in both the Chiikawa - 28g and the KTT Glimp creates a harmonious interplay between sound and feel. The polycarbonate top delivers a clear and resonant auditory experience, while the nylon bottom absorbs and softens that sound during each key press, resulting in a well-balanced performance for users. Since both switches feature the same housing materials, they provide comparable results, making them appealing choices for typing enthusiasts who appreciate exquisite sound profiles and tactile experiences in their keyboard switches.
Weight
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch present distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Chiikawa switch has a lighter actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it an excellent option for those who prefer a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the KTT Glimp switch features a heavier actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience that some users may find preferable. As a result, the Chiikawa switch is the lighter option, while the Glimp is the heavier switch. Since their forces differ significantly, users can expect distinctly different typing experiences, with the Chiikawa offering a lighter and more effortless keystroke, while the Glimp delivers a firmer feel with greater resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Chiikawa switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Glimp switch measures a slightly longer 4 mm. This means that if you're looking for a more responsive experience, the Chiikawa's shorter travel distance could suit your needs better, as shorter distances facilitate quicker key presses – a preference often sought by gamers. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced key press, the Glimp's greater travel distance may provide that satisfying depth, catering to those who appreciate a more tactile response. Ultimately, while both switches serve distinct preferences, the Chiikawa's 3.6 mm travel distance is the shorter option, and the Glimp, at 4 mm, is the longer one.
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 KTT Glimp has an MSRP of $3.84 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glimp for $3.45.
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 switch produces a bright, high-pitched tone that is notably crisp, making each keystroke feel responsive and lively. This clear sound profile encourages a joyful typing experience but may be perceived as somewhat sharper compared to more traditional switches. On the other hand, the KTT Glimp switch offers a fairly clacky sound, marked by a sharp and percussive quality that adds an engaging auditory element to typing sessions. This switch also maintains a neutral sound profile, providing versatility for various environments, thus catering to both beginners and advanced users alike. The sound output of both switches can, of course, be influenced by the specific keyboard build and keycap materials.
Regarding feel, the Chiikawa - 28g is characterized by its very light actuation force, resulting in a quick and effortless response. However, the exact details about its tactile feedback and overall typing experience are not provided. In contrast, the KTT Glimp switch is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery feel during typing. This luxurious typing sensation often results from factory lubrication or specific material choices, which allow your fingers to glide easily over the keys. Additionally, the Glimp switches are categorized as mild, providing a gentler and more approachable typing experience, making them suitable for a wide range of users.
In conclusion, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g switch delivers a bright and crisp sound, complemented by its light actuation force for a responsive typing experience, while the KTT Glimp switch features a clacky sound alongside a creamy and mild feel, striking an enjoyable balance for various typing preferences. Although their characteristics differ, each switch brings unique qualities that can significantly enhance the typing experience depending on personal preferences and intended use. If you’re in search of vibrant auditory feedback and a lightweight feel, the Chiikawa is your go-to, while those seeking a smooth and versatile typing experience may find the Glimp more suitable.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the environment you'll be using them in. If you prefer a super light actuation and an exceptionally bright sound profile, the Chiikawa - 28g might be the right choice for you, especially if you enjoy a more responsive and crisp typing experience. This switch is ideal for fast typists or gamers who appreciate swift key presses with a high-pitched auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more balanced feel with sufficient tactile feedback and a comfortable middle-ground actuation force, the KTT Glimp switch is likely your best bet. Its medium-light resistance and clacky sound profile deliver a satisfying auditory element while still feeling substantial under your fingers. The creamy and mild textures of the Glimp add to an enjoyable overall typing experience, making it suitable for both everyday use and longer typing sessions. Thus, your choice should align with your specific typing style and whether you favor a lighter or more balanced actuation.
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