Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Gateron Ink Black V2
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron Ink Black V2 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 Ink Black V2 present two appealing options, each with distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Chiikawa - 28g is celebrated for its exceptionally light 28g actuation force and bright sound profile, which creates a highly responsive and crisp typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Black V2, a long-time favorite in the keyboard enthusiast community, offers a smoother downstroke coupled with a rich, low-pitched clack, making it ideal for users who prefer a more substantial feedback while typing. Each switch has its own unique charm—while the Chiikawa is perfect for those seeking a light touch and spirited sound, the Ink Black V2 appeals to individuals who favor a smoother and more bassy acoustics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
28g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and Gateron Ink Black V2 present intriguingly different sound profiles and characteristics in their respective housing materials. The Chiikawa - 28g utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is particularly advantageous when RGB lighting is employed, as the clear nature of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal of illuminated switches. In contrast, the Ink Black V2 is made with a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which provides a high-pitched yet not overly sharp sound, often described as clacky. While both switches aim for a high-pitched sound, the Chiikawa achieves it through a stiffer material, while the Ink Black V2 finds balance in a blend that softens the sharpness.
Looking at the bottom housings of each switch, we see another contrast in their chosen materials. The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g incorporates nylon, which is recognized for its ability to absorb sound and produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. This material softens the impact when bottoming out, leading to a satisfying thud that contributes to the overall typing experience. Conversely, the Gateron Ink Black V2 also features a proprietary INK blend in its bottom housing that delivers a similarly pointed and higher-pitched sound. Both switches may produce satisfying acoustics, but the key difference lies in how they blend the characteristics of their top and bottom housings to create distinct auditory qualities.
Ultimately, the differences between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and Gateron Ink Black V2 create unique sound experiences, despite both switches aiming for a high-pitched sound profile. The Chiikawa's clear polycarbonate top with nylon bottom leads to a sharper yet fuller sound profile suited for those who prefer pronounced auditory feedback, especially during key release. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2’s proprietary INK blend manages to achieve a clacky sound that is satisfying without being overly harsh. While both switches can reach similar pitch levels, the nuanced sonic qualities derived from their individual materials shape the overall experience differently, catering to diverse preferences among users.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch to the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, a clear distinction in actuation and bottom out forces emerges. The Chiikawa switch features a relatively light actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Ink Black V2 has a significantly heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, appealing to users who enjoy a more robust and substantial keystroke feel. Therefore, the Chiikawa switch is the lighter option, while the Ink Black V2 is the heavier one. This difference in force characteristics means that users seeking a tactile and engaging typing experience might gravitate toward the Ink Black V2, whereas those prioritizing ease of use and comfort during prolonged periods may prefer the Chiikawa.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, a notable difference arises. The Chiikawa - 28g features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Ink Black V2 extends to 4 mm. This makes the Chiikawa the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking a more responsive keystroke for quicker reaction times. On the other hand, the longer 4 mm travel of the Ink Black V2 might cater to users who prefer a more substantial, deeper feel when typing, providing a satisfying tactile experience. Thus, if you're looking for responsiveness, the Chiikawa - 28g would be the preferred choice, but for those who appreciate a classic typing depth, the Ink Black V2 would be more suitable.
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 Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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 is characterized by a bright and high-pitched sound profile. This makes it distinctly responsive and creates a crisp feedback during typing that can be quite satisfying for users who enjoy a more lively sound experience. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch offers a low-pitched, bassy sound that presents a deeper, richer tone when pressed. The Ink Black V2 also features chirpy notes, adding a unique acoustic signature that contrasts sharply with the more delicate tones of the Chiikawa. While the Chiikawa excels in creating an energetic atmosphere with its high frequencies, the Ink Black V2 delivers a more subdued, yet rich auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 28g switch is known for its very light actuation force, allowing for quick and effortless keystrokes. This lightness can enhance the overall typing experience, making it suitable for rapid fire typing and gaming, although the specific tactile characteristics of the Chiikawa are not detailed. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 provides a mild and polished feeling during key presses. Its mild nature makes it accessible to a wide range of typists, while the polished finish ensures smooth travel without any noticeable friction. This combination results in a balanced typing experience, striking a comfortable middle-ground that caters to various preferences.
In summary, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switches present distinct auditory and tactile qualities that cater to different preferences within the keyboard community. The Chiikawa’s bright sound and light actuation provide an energetic typing experience, while the Ink Black V2’s low-pitched and rich sound, combined with its polished feel, offer a more subdued and refined approach. While both switches are linear and can produce satisfying typing experiences, their differences in sound and feel highlight the diverse options available to newcomers in the mechanical keyboard realm.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches largely hinges on your personal preferences regarding actuation force, sound profile, and overall typing experience. If you appreciate a lighter, highly responsive switch that provides an airy, bright sound, the Chiikawa switch is an excellent choice. Its 28g actuation force allows for quick, effortless key presses, making it ideal for rapid typing or gaming scenarios where speed is crucial. Conversely, if you lean towards a more pronounced feel with a satisfying medium-heavy resistance, the Ink Black V2 is the way to go. This switch’s 70g bottom-out force offers a more deliberate typing experience, appealing to those who find comfort in a heavier touch and enjoy the rich, low-pitched sound that it produces. The polished finish of the Ink Black V2 enhances smoothness, making it suitable for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style and sound preference, giving you the best possible experience with your mechanical keyboard.
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