Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switches, both offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences and experiences. The Chiikawa switch is renowned for its very light actuation force of just 28g, resulting in a highly responsive feel and a crisp, bright sound profile that can enhance the joy of typing. This switch is ideal for users who appreciate a quick actuation and enjoy a lighter touch, making it perfect for fast typists or gamers seeking rapid responses. In contrast, the Jacaranda switch, with a slightly heavier actuation force of 43.5g, provides a gentle bottom-out that ensures more comfort and reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Its clackier sound signature adds an enjoyable auditory feedback, while the unique 22mm extended spring offers a bouncier sensation, enhancing the overall typing experience. While both switches feature linear characteristics, their unique attributes make them appealing to different types of users. 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
39g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches feature similar materials for their top housings, both utilizing polycarbonate. This choice in housing material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate's inherent stiffness. As both switches share this characteristic, users can expect a similar auditory experience, particularly when the switches are illuminated with RGB lighting due to the translucency of the polycarbonate. This consistency in the sound profile can create a cohesive aesthetic and acoustic experience across both switch types.
Contrasting the top housing materials, both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is traditional and well-regarded among switch enthusiasts for its softer properties, which nurture a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon housing absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and more muted bottom-out sound. The presence of nylon in the bottom housing of both the Chiikawa - 28g and the Jacaranda ensures that typists will feel similar responses during key presses, further reinforcing the overall acoustic experience of both switches.
Ultimately, while the Chiikawa - 28g and PH Studio Jacaranda switches are constructed from the same materials—polycarbonate for the top and nylon for the bottom—the acoustic profile generated by their combined characteristics creates a layered auditory experience. The polycarbonate top contributes clarity and brightness, particularly when keys are released, while the nylon bottom complements this with a plush and resonant sound when keys are pressed down. Consequently, users can expect a harmonious balance of sound between the two models, allowing for similar results in both typing feel and sound output despite slight nuances that may arise from design specifics.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Chiikawa switch features a lighter actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it an excellent choice for users who prefer minimal resistance for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Jacaranda switch has a heavier actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience that some users may find satisfying. Thus, while the Chiikawa switch allows for easier keystrokes and may be preferable for lengthy use, the Jacaranda appeals to those who enjoy a firmer push feel. Overall, users seeking a lighter option should opt for the Chiikawa, while those desiring a heavier switch should consider the Jacaranda.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, we find that the Chiikawa has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jacaranda measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This makes the Jacaranda the shorter option, providing a quick response time that may appeal to gamers seeking faster actuation. In contrast, the Chiikawa’s longer 3.6 mm travel distance offers a bit more depth, which can be preferable for those who enjoy a more substantial tactile experience when typing. While the difference between the two is minimal, it could significantly affect user preference depending on whether one favors responsiveness over a more traditional feel. Overall, both offer shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm switch, catering to the evolving tastes of modern keyboard users.
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 PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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 offers a bright sound profile that produces a crisp, high-pitched noise while typing, making it quite responsive. This airy sound can make the typing experience feel lively and engaging, particularly for those who prefer a more articulate auditory feedback. In contrast, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch leans towards a clacky sound signature, characterized by its sharp and percussive quality. Users can expect a clean, resonant sound with each keystroke, creating an auditory experience that is both satisfying and immersive. While the Chiikawa's emphasis on brightness may provide distinct clarity, the Jacaranda's clacky nature adds a layer of richness, making both switches engaging for different auditory preferences.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g switch is noted for its very light actuation force, which facilitates quick and effortless typing. This lightness can enhance responsiveness, providing an exhilarating typing experience, especially favored by those who prioritize speed. However, specific descriptive qualities for the Chiikawa's feel are not detailed. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda boasts a silky smoothness that allows for a remarkably smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Coupled with its gentle bottom-out force of 43.5g, the Jacaranda ensures a fatigue-free experience, making it great for long typing sessions. While the Chiikawa's overall feel remains somewhat ambiguous, the significant distinction lies in the Jacaranda’s luxurious smoothness, which can elevate the tactile experience.
Ultimately, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switches offer unique sensory benefits that cater to different preferences. The Chiikawa is ideal for those who appreciate lightness and a bright sound profile, while the Jacaranda appeals to users who enjoy a clacky sound and silky feel. While they differ in several aspects, selecting either switch can still yield a satisfying and distinct typing experience, allowing newcomers to enjoy the diverse qualities mechanical keyboards have to offer.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch ultimately depends on your personal typing style and preferences. If you favor a very light actuation force and enjoy a bright, high-pitched sound with every keystroke, the Chiikawa - 28g is an excellent fit for you. Its 34g bottom-out force makes it extremely responsive, perfect for rapid typing and gaming where swift key presses are necessary. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle yet noticeable feedback with a slightly heavier actuation at 45g, the Jacaranda is the way to go. Its clacky sound profile and silky feel combine to create a typing experience that is both enjoyable and fatigue-free, especially suitable for longer typing sessions. Both switches offer unique attributes that cater to different typing environments, so consider where you'll be using them most—be it at a gaming setup or for everyday typing—and choose accordingly.
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