Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Gateron Ink Box Black
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron Ink Box Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and Gateron Ink Box Black both present distinct characteristics tailored to enhance your typing experience. The Chiikawa - 28g excels with its remarkably light actuation force, providing an exceptionally responsive feel accompanied by a bright, crisp sound profile that can invigorate any keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Box Black offers a smoother, more refined tactile experience with its creamy texture and a unique sound reminiscent of a shaking spray paint can, characterized by clacky and polished notes that deliver a satisfying auditory feedback. Each switch caters to different preferences: the Chiikawa is perfect for those seeking agility and sharp audio cues, while the Ink Box Black appeals to users desiring fluidity and a more subdued sound signature. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron Ink Box Black switches feature distinct housing materials that contribute to their respective sound profiles. The Chiikawa - 28g employs a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and translucence, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound. This higher-pitched audio profile is enhanced by the polycarbonate's stiffer nature, which allows sound vibrations to resonate clearly. Additionally, the use of a clear polycarbonate material also provides aesthetic value, particularly in applications with RGB lighting, where the light can effectively shine through the housing. In contrast, the Ink Box Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which similarly creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This material, while emphasizing clarity, is also described as having a clackier quality, though it avoids becoming overly sharp.
The bottom housing of these two switches presents a more pronounced contrast. The Chiikawa - 28g features a nylon bottom housing, which is traditionally known for generating a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer properties. Nylon's ability to absorb sound results in a more rounded auditory experience, particularly during bottom-out, where the impact of the keystroke is felt most intensely. In comparison, the Ink Box Black employs the same proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing as it does in the top. However, this also lends the switch a more pointed sound profile. The clackiness and thinness are traits that the INK blend retains, giving both switches an interesting dynamic despite having different materials in their top housings.
When pressing down on either switch, the overall typing experience will be influenced by the material qualities of both the top and bottom housings. In the case of the Chiikawa - 28g, the nylon bottom brings a deeper sound to the experience, while the polycarbonate top contributes to the crispness. Conversely, the Ink Box Black, with both top and bottom made of the INK blend, features a consistent high-pitched profile that is engaging and satisfying. While each switch has unique characteristics, users could potentially achieve a similar auditory experience if they prefer a clearer thrumming sound, especially when RGB lighting is involved with the Chiikawa's polycarbonate top housing. Ultimately, the combined influence of both housing types determines the overall sound signature and tactile feedback of the switches during use.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Chiikawa - 28g features a lighter actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who favor a more effortless typing experience during extended periods of use, whether for work or gaming. In contrast, the Ink Box Black requires a much heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial and tactile feel while typing. Consequently, the Chiikawa switch is the lighter option, while the Ink Box Black is considered the heavier switch. Thus, if you're inclined towards a softer touch, the Chiikawa - 28g will deliver a more comfortable experience, whereas the Ink Box Black will provide a firmer resistance, which some typists find satisfying.
Travel distance
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them identical in this aspect. This means that users will experience the same amount of key press distance when engaging either switch, leading to similar tactile feedback and responsiveness during use. Since both switches have the same travel distance, individuals seeking a consistent typing experience can expect comparable performance, regardless of their choice between the two.
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 Box Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Black for $7.65.
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 linear switch is characterized by its bright sound profile, producing a crisp, high-pitched noise that is notably pleasant to the ears. This sharpness lends itself to an engaging typing experience, offering clarity with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch has a sound signature that evokes a kind of clacky resonance, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. It creates a distinct, sharper sound that adds an energetic layer to typing, making it appealing for users who enjoy auditory feedback as part of their experience.
When considering the feel of these switches, the Chiikawa - 28g is renowned for its very light actuation force, which makes it incredibly responsive, allowing for quick and effortless typing. The lightweight nature can create a sense of speed when pressing the keys, making it suitable for fast typists or those looking for minimal resistance. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch is known for its silky and polished performance. It boasts an exceptionally smooth typing experience, largely due to its refined finish and possible factory lubing, which minimizes friction and enhances overall key travel. This creates a luxurious feel during prolonged typing sessions, making it more comfortable for users who prioritize tactile smoothness.
Combining the unique aspects of both switches, the Chiikawa - 28g offers a bright and sharp auditory experience paired with a lightweight, responsive feel suitable for speed typists. Meanwhile, the Gateron Ink Box Black provides a clackier sound that can energize your typing, complemented by an incredibly smooth and polished sensation when engaged. While both switches cater to different preferences—one emphasizing a crisp auditory feedback and a lighter touch, and the other focusing on a smooth and refined tactile experience—users can enjoy equally satisfying results depending on their typing style and sound preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, consider your typing style and preferences. If you prefer a lighter touch with a quick actuation that allows for high responsiveness and a bright, clacky sound, the Chiikawa - 28g would be your ideal choice. Its 34-gram bottom-out force makes it an excellent option for fast typists or gamers who thrive on rapid key presses and need a switch that provides auditory feedback without being overly heavy. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel with a smoother and creamier typing experience, the Ink Box Black will serve you well. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 70 grams is suitable for those who enjoy a more grounded typing experience, combined with a silky and polished feel. Moreover, if you're someone who relishes the sound reminiscent of a spray paint can or enjoys a deeper, snappier auditory profile, the Ink Box Black will certainly meet your expectations. Your choice between these two switches ultimately hinges on your desire for either a lightweight, responsive keypress or a more tactile, smoother typing experience with a satisfying sound signature.
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