Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch present two distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Chiikawa - 28g is celebrated for its exceptionally light actuation force and bright sound profile, offering a quick and responsive feel that many typists appreciate, particularly for fast-paced gaming or typing scenarios where speed is paramount. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch elevates the typing experience with its pronounced tactile bump and creamy smoothness, providing a satisfying feedback that can enhance the enjoyment of prolonged typing sessions. While the Chiikawa is ideal for those who value a light touch and a crisp sound, the Ice King appeals to users who prefer the tactile affirmation of each keystroke along with a more refined typing sensation. 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
58g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
68g
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
Nylon
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
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Durock Ice King Tactile, a distinct contrast is evident in their top housing choices. The Chiikawa - 28g utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This kind of material enhances clarity and resonance, making it ideal for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback during typing. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile opts for a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper, rounder sound profile. This material's softer properties help absorb sound, thus creating a more muted auditory experience. Therefore, the differences in top housing materials directly influence the auditory output, catering to varied preferences among users.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches feature nylon, which brews similar sound characteristics irrespective of the different top housings. The nylon utilized in both the Chiikawa - 28g and the Ice King Tactile provides a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile that is notably softer than that produced by harder plastics. Typing on both switches will yield a satisfying, rounded sound as they share this commonality in their bottom housing material. This aspect harmonizes between the two switches, ensuring that while the top housing may deliver different sound dynamics, the bottom nature will cement a similar auditory experience when the switch bottoms out.
Ultimately, the combined influence of both the top and bottom housing materials plays a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience and sound profile of each switch. While the Chiikawa - 28g's polycarbonate top contributes clarity and brightness, the nylon bottom offers a deeper foundation. Conversely, the Ice King Tactile employs a sound-dampening nylon top paired with the same nylon bottom, leading to a more muted but cohesive typing experience. Users seeking similar results in sound and tactile feedback can find equilibrium in the nylon configurations of both switches, even if their top materials lead to contrasting initial impressions.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, the differences in actuation force and bottom out force stand out prominently. The Chiikawa features a notably lighter actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it ideal for long typing sessions and gaming, as it reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile has a significantly heavier actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. This means that while the Chiikawa is best suited for users looking for a softer touch, the Ice King provides the tactile feedback and resistance that can be satisfying for those who enjoy a firmer typing experience. Ultimately, if you prefer lighter switches with lower forces, the Chiikawa would be your choice, whereas the Ice King caters to those who appreciate the sensation of a heavier push.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, we find that the Chiikawa switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Ice King Tactile measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This means that if you prioritize a little more depth in your key presses, the Chiikawa switch may be the better choice for a more hearty feel. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile’s shorter travel distance can provide a quicker response time, making it appealing for those who favor rapid gameplay and swift typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prefer the slightly greater depth of the Chiikawa or the more responsive action of the Ice King.
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 Durock Ice King Tactile has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Tactile for $4.20.
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 characterized by a bright, high-pitched sound profile that creates a crisp auditory feedback. This responsiveness can feel lively during typing, providing an engaging experience especially for those who enjoy the sound of their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile excels in producing a more subdued sound profile. Its dampened sound is less intrusive compared to the Chiikawa's bright notes, offering a pleasant and subtle auditory environment that may appeal to those who prefer quieter switches. The actual sound experience can, of course, vary based on the specific board and keycaps used alongside these switches.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g offers a very light and responsive typing experience, which is expected of a linear switch. While specific descriptors for feel of the Chiikawa were not provided, linear switches are generally known for their smooth keystrokes without any tactile feedback. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch presents a rich tactile experience characterized by its silky and frictionless action. With a pronounced tactile bump that feels stepped, the Ice King Tactile provides a unique sensation during keystrokes, ensuring satisfying feedback without overwhelming resistance. Its polished finish enhances this smoothness, making typing effortless and enjoyable.
In summary, both switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences suited to different preferences. The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g delivers a bright sound and a lightweight, smooth feel typical of linear switches, appealing to those who seek clarity and responsiveness. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile combines a muted audio profile with a refined tactile experience, perfect for users who appreciate nuance and smoothness in their keystrokes. Choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference regarding the type of sound and feel that enhances your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a light, responsive switch that allows for quick and effortless keystrokes, especially beneficial for gaming or rapid typing, the Chiikawa - 28g is an excellent choice. Its low actuation force of 28g enables a nimble, crisp typing experience, which is ideal if you enjoy the sound of bright, high-pitched clicks and want to enable fast inputs without fatigue. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more tactile feedback that offers a balance of smoothness and a pronounced tactile bump, the Durock Ice King Tactile would be your go-to option. With its medium-heavy bottom out force of 68 grams, this switch can provide a satisfying tactile sensation that enhances typing enjoyment, especially for those who prefer a more deliberate and controlled keypress. The subdued sound profile also makes it suitable for office environments or quieter settings where noise can be a concern. Ultimately, your decision should reflect what typing experience you value more—either the light and swift nature of the Chiikawa or the engaging and tactile feel of the Ice King.
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