Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Bsun Jade Rosales
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Bsun Jade Rosales switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Bsun Jade Rosales both represent unique options for typists and gamers alike, yet they cater to distinct preferences in sound and tactile feedback. The Chiikawa - 28g stands out for its very light actuation force and vibrant sound profile, making every keystroke feel responsive and crisp, ideal for those who value speed and auditory feedback in their typing experience. In contrast, the Jade Rosales switches from XY Studio promise an exceptionally smooth feel, refined over a year through custom engineering practices that include specialized housings and lubrication, attracting users who prioritize a seamless and fluid keystroke. While both switches are linear, appealing to those who dislike tactile bumps, they offer distinctly different sensations and qualities in use. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Y3X
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Custom Milky Material
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
20.5mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and Bsun Jade Rosales switches share a commonality in their top housing material, with both utilizing polycarbonate. This material, known for its stiffer nature, contributes to a similarly high-pitched and crisp sound profile, enhancing the overall auditory experience when using these switches. The translucency of polycarbonate not only supports RGB lighting effects but also tends to promote a clearer resonance. Hence, users of both switches can expect a bright sound signature that emphasizes clarity, especially in scenarios involving backlit keycaps. This auditory consistency provides a foundational experience for enthusiasts looking for similar sound characteristics in different switches.
Contrastingly, the bottom housing of these two switches diverges significantly in material choice and sound profile. The Chiikawa - 28g employs nylon for its bottom housing, which lends a fuller and deeper sound due to its softer plastic composition. In comparison, the Jade Rosales utilizes a proprietary "Custom Milky Material," which, while not clearly defined in comparison to nylon, hints at a unique auditory and tactile experience distinct from typical nylon characteristics. This divergence in materials can result in different bottom-out sounds and feels during typing, thereby fostering various acoustic qualities while still ensuring that the top end of the sound remains consistent, thanks to the shared polycarbonate top.
When both top and bottom housings are considered in conjunction, the interaction of these materials can create a nuanced typing experience. The nylon bottom of the Chiikawa - 28g may produce a duller and more rounded sound during key presses, while the Jade Rosales's proprietary bottom housing likely introduces elements that alter the overall sound profile. Therefore, while the outcome of pressing either switch may produce different auditory textures due to the distinct bottom materials, the shared polycarbonate tops ensure there is a common auditory thread that runs through both experiences—offering users a balanced interplay between the bright highs produced by the tops and the warmth introduced by the bottoms.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Bsun Jade Rosales 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 prefer a softer touch that allows for prolonged typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Jade Rosales has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. This significant difference suggests that while the Chiikawa provides a more gentle experience, the Jade Rosales offers a firmer resistance that may be desirable for typists seeking feedback from their keystrokes. Therefore, the Chiikawa is the lighter option, while the Jade Rosales stands as the heavier switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch, there is a slight difference between the two. The Chiikawa - 28g has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jade Rosales measures at 3.5 mm. This makes the Jade Rosales the shorter option, providing a marginally quicker actuation that can benefit gamers seeking rapid response times. In contrast, the Chiikawa - 28g, with its longer travel distance, may offer a deeper and more substantial feel during use, which some users might prefer for better tactile feedback. Ultimately, if you're looking for a switch that favors quicker responsiveness, the Jade Rosales would be the ideal choice, whereas the Chiikawa would suit those who appreciate a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes.
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 Bsun Jade Rosales has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jade Rosales for $5.39.
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
The sound profile of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch is characterized by a bright and high-pitched quality, which can create an engaging and lively auditory experience while typing. This means that users typically enjoy a more pronounced acoustic feedback with each key press. The Bsun Jade Rosales, on the other hand, has a sound profile that is likely refined through meticulous design and lubrication techniques, potentially resulting in a smooth but less sharp sound. However, the specific characteristics of the Jade Rosales sound are not explicitly detailed, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison. It is essential to remember that the overall sound experience can greatly depend on the keyboard build and choice of keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 28g switch is known for its very light actuation force, making it exceptionally responsive and easy to press. This contributes to a typing experience that may appeal to users who favor rapid key presses and a fluid typing motion. Conversely, the Jade Rosales is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth typing experience, attributed to the careful design of its custom housings and stems, which likely resonate with users seeking an effortless glide when bottoming out. While both switches emphasize user comfort, their distinct qualities lead to slightly different tactile experiences.
In conclusion, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch offers a bright sound and very light actuation, appealing to those who enjoy a lively auditory feedback and quick response. The Bsun Jade Rosales emphasizes a smoother typing experience, focusing on refined craftsmanship that enhances the feel of each keystroke. While their auditory characteristics and tactile experiences differ, users can expect a satisfying performance from both switches. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you prioritize a crisp, pronounced sound or an exceptionally smooth feel as part of your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prefer an incredibly lightweight switch that is hyper-responsive, the Chiikawa - 28g is a great choice. Its activation force of only 28 grams means you'll barely need to exert effort to register a keystroke, making it suitable for fast typists or gamers who appreciate quick actuation and a bright sound profile. The high-pitched, crisp auditory feedback of this switch can add a lively character to your typing experience, perfect for those who enjoy an expressive sound while they work or play.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a smooth, more substantial typing experience, the Jade Rosales with a bottom-out force of 53 grams might be more to your liking. This switch, having been refined for optimal performance, delivers an exceptionally smooth feel thanks to its custom housings and lubrication techniques. It strikes a balance between firmness and comfort, which can be ideal for prolonged typing sessions or tasks that require concentration without fatigue. The Jade Rosales switches produce a more muted sound profile, making them suitable for quieter environments or for users who find higher-pitched sounds distracting. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal typing style, desired ergonomics, and sound preference, ensuring you select the switch that enhances your overall experience.
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