Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. TTC Ice
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the TTC Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the TTC Ice stand out as compelling options due to their unique features and user experiences, both embodying the linear switch category. The Chiikawa - 28g is renowned for its exceptionally light actuation force and bright sound profile, making each keystroke notably responsive and crisp, perfect for those who appreciate a more tactile and auditory typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Ice switches impress with their striking crystal-clear design and a smooth, satisfying feel that enhances both gaming and everyday tasks, catering to users who prioritize aesthetic appeal alongside performance. While both switches offer linear feedback, their distinct characteristics may suit different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
Y3X
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the TTC Ice switches exhibit notable similarities, particularly in their top housing components, both of which are constructed from polycarbonate. This choice in material results in a sharper, higher-pitched audio profile and a crisper sound, attributed to polycarbonate's stiffness. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it particularly advantageous for RGB lighting setups, as the light can diffuse beautifully through the material, enhancing visual aesthetics. For users looking for lively and bright sound feedback from their switches, the polycarbonate top housing in both the Chiikawa - 28g and the Ice ensures that a clear and resonant tone is achieved effectively, regardless of the specific model.
Conversely, the bottom housing materials diverge significantly. The Chiikawa - 28g employs nylon for its bottom housing, a material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs sound rather than amplifying it, resulting in a rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the TTC Ice features a polycarbonate bottom housing, reinforcing the sharpness of the sound created in its top housing. As a result, while both switches utilize polycarbonate in the top housing to deliver a bright and crisp sound, their bottom housing materials create distinct auditory effects, with the Ice leaning towards a sharper profile while the Chiikawa - 28g favors a more subdued and rounded sound.
The combined effects of these housing materials offer a unique user experience based entirely on the acoustic characteristics they impart. The Chiikawa - 28g, with its nylon bottom housing, delivers an enhanced bottom-out feel, making key presses feel more satisfying and cushioned. On the other hand, the TTC Ice, with its polycarbonate bottom housing, will resonate with a sharper sound, particularly noticeable when releasing the keys. Thus, while the two switches share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing and can achieve vibrant RGB effects together, the contrasting bottom housing materials mean that users will experience fundamentally different sound profiles and tactile responses depending on their choice.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, the differences in actuation force and bottom out force are quite significant. The Chiikawa switch has a lightweight actuation force of just 28 grams, which makes it more suitable for those who prefer a softer key feel for extended typing or gaming sessions. Its bottom out force is 34 grams, allowing for a gentle experience through the entire keystroke. In contrast, the TTC Ice switch requires a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, paired with a bottom out force of 60 grams. This notable difference means that the Ice switch offers a more substantial typing experience, favored by users who enjoy a stronger push feel. As a result, the Chiikawa - 28g is the lighter option, appealing to users who prioritize comfort during long usage, while the Ice linear switch caters to those who prefer a firmer response with its higher forces.
Travel distance
Both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch have an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing the keys of both switches, as they will feel the same distance when the switches are activated. Whether using the Chiikawa or the Ice, the consistent travel distance ensures a comparable performance in terms of keystroke depth and feel.
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 TTC Ice has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice for $5.99.
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
When it comes to sound, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch is known for its bright sound profile, producing a crisp, high-pitched tone during typing that can create an exhilarating auditory experience. In contrast, the TTC Ice linear switch is praised for its satisfying bottom-out sound, which provides a smooth auditory cue that is both pleasant and refined. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the Chiikawa's high-pitched clarity contrasts with the Ice's deeper, more resonant sound, resulting in different auditory sensations that can cater to varying preferences amongst users.
In terms of feel, the Chiikawa - 28g features a very light actuation force that makes it remarkably responsive, allowing for quick key presses with minimal effort. This contributes to an effortless typing experience that may be particularly appealing for those who prefer faster actuation for gaming or rapid typing. On the other hand, the TTC Ice linear switch is characterized by its smooth and responsive feel, likely offering a more consistent experience for users who appreciate a premium typing sensation without the need for excessive force. While both switches emphasize smoothness, the Chiikawa's lighter actuation may create a different dynamic in how they respond during use.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch present unique advantages in sound and feel. The Chiikawa switch excels with its bright auditory feedback and light actuation, catering to those who enjoy a more responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Ice switch balances a smooth performance with a satisfying sound profile, appealing to users who seek a refined typing sensation. Ultimately, whether you gravitate towards the Chiikawa's crispness or the Ice's satisfying depth, each switch is designed to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience, though they will produce distinctly different characters in response to user preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, your personal preferences and typing habits should guide your decision. If you favor a lighter touch and a breezy, responsive feel—perfect for fast typing or gaming—then the Chiikawa switch with its low actuation force may be your ideal match. Its bright sound profile adds a delightful auditory dimension to your typing experience, making it great for enthusiasts who enjoy that crisp feedback. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more substantial feel with a medium bottom-out force, the TTC Ice switch may be better suited for you. Its premium build quality, combined with a smooth action and satisfying sound, makes it an excellent choice for both gaming and everyday typing, especially if you're seeking that balance between tactile feedback and ease of use. In summary, align your choice with how you intend to use your keyboard—whether for fast-paced gaming sessions or casual typing—and this will lead you to the switch that best complements your style.
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