Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. HMX Hibiscus
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the HMX Hibiscus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the HMX Hibiscus present compelling options, each catering to different preferences in typing experience. The Chiikawa - 28g is celebrated for its remarkably light actuation force and distinctive bright sound profile, allowing for quick, responsive keystrokes and a high-pitched auditory feedback that many typists find delightful. This switch is ideal for those who prioritize speed and sound in their typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Hibiscus also boasts a lightweight actuation force but takes typing comfort to another level with its ultra-smooth feel, paired with a clacky and poppy sound signature that offers tactile satisfaction. While both switches are linear and embrace a fluid typing style, the choice between them ultimately comes down to whether you value a crisp, immediate feedback or a plush, velvety experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
28g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Y3X
Stem material
T3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the HMX Hibiscus, one notable difference lies in the top housing. The Chiikawa - 28g utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is prized for its ability to produce a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is primarily due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, allowing for greater resonance and clarity in sound when the key is released. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus features a nylon top housing, which is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. While both switches exhibit unique acoustic characteristics, the clear nature of the Chiikawa's polycarbonate housing is specifically beneficial for RGB lighting, enhancing visual aesthetics without compromising sound quality.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Chiikawa - 28g and the HMX Hibiscus use nylon, resulting in similarities in their auditory experiences when a key is pressed down. The nylon bottom housing in each switch absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, leading to a rounder and more muffled sound. This commonality ensures that both switches deliver a deeper, more pronounced feel when bottoming out, effectively providing a cohesive auditory experience. The consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing across both switches plays a crucial role in maintaining a satisfying typing experience, characterized by a warm and full sound.
The combination of materials in both switches highlights the importance of how top and bottom housings interact to produce the overall sound and feel during use. Although the Chiikawa - 28g and the HMX Hibiscus differ significantly in their top housing materials, the shared nylon bottom housing means they will produce similar auditory results when pressed down. However, the distinctions in the top housing materials ensure that users will experience different acoustic profiles when letting go of the keys. This results in a unique blend of sound dynamics for each switch, with the Chiikawa offering a brighter and more resonant sound upon release due to its polycarbonate top, while the Hibiscus will offer a deeper and more subdued auditory experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom-out forces of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, significant differences can be observed. The Chiikawa switch features a lighter actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom-out force of 34 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer effortless typing or longer gaming sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Hibiscus switch has a heavier actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom-out force of 48 grams, providing a more substantial push feel favored by users who enjoy a stronger typing experience. Therefore, if you seek a lighter switch for comfort during extended use, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g is the better option, while the HMX Hibiscus caters to those who appreciate a firmer tactile feedback with its increased force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, the Chiikawa measures at 3.6 mm, while the Hibiscus has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that if you are seeking a more responsive typing experience, the Hibiscus might be preferable due to its shorter actuation distance, which could lead to quicker response times—an advantage often sought by gamers. Conversely, the Chiikawa, with its longer travel distance, may offer a more substantial tactile feel that some users prefer for a deeper typing experience. Overall, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference for either responsiveness or a more pronounced keystroke depth, with the Chiikawa being the longer option and the Hibiscus being marginally shorter.
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 Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
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 its bright, high-pitched sound profile that resonates crisply during typing, making it a lively choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback. This light and responsive sound can enhance the typing experience, particularly in quieter environments where each keystroke is accentuated. On the other hand, the HMX Hibiscus linear switch offers a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature that stands out as both engaging and distinct. Although both switches provide an enjoyable auditory experience, the Chiikawa emphasizes a sharper sound while the Hibiscus leans into a fuller clack, making each option unique but both providing pleasurable acoustic feedback overall.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 28g switch features an incredibly light actuation force, making it one of the most responsive switches available. This ultra-light touch allows for rapid and effortless typing, appealing to those who prefer an easy keystroke with minimal resistance. Conversely, the Hibiscus switch also boasts a very light actuation force, surpassing 80% of all switches in sensitivity. The emphasis here is on providing an ultra-smooth typing experience, making the Hibiscus extremely enjoyable to type on. Both switches deliver an overall light and responsive feedback, though the sensation of smoothness may vary between the two, appealing to different preferences in tactile sensation.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and HMX Hibiscus linear switches present unique qualities that cater to different user preferences within the realm of mechanical keyboards. The Chiikawa offers a bright and sharp sound alongside an incredibly light actuation force, while the Hibiscus focuses on a smoother typing experience and a clackier sound profile. While their sound and feel may differ slightly, both switches provide a highly enjoyable typing experience characterized by responsiveness and lightness, making either an excellent choice depending on your auditory and tactile preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a very light actuation force and favor a bright, high-pitched sound when typing, then the Chiikawa - 28g would be an excellent fit for you. Its crisp response and lightweight bottom-out force of 34 grams will make it exceptionally easy and pleasurable for rapid typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you're looking for a smoother typing experience paired with a satisfying clacky and poppy sound, the HMX Hibiscus switch may be the better choice. With a bottom-out force of 48 grams, it offers a bit more resistance that can enhance typing precision, making it especially appealing for those who value a balance of feedback and softness. Therefore, consider your typing habits: if you like to type quickly and enjoy a lighter touch, the Chiikawa - 28g is your best option. For those who prefer a more substantial feel and sound without sacrificing smoothness, the Hibiscus will serve you well.
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