Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron Jupiter Banana offer two distinct experiences for typists and gamers alike. The Chiikawa - 28g, known for its incredibly light 28g actuation force, provides a linear typing experience characterized by a bright sound profile and a crisp, high-pitched sound that makes each keystroke feel swift and responsive. This makes the Chiikawa ideal for users who prefer a smooth, uninterrupted keypress without tactile feedback, particularly advantageous for fast-paced gaming or prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana's tactile design introduces a noticeable bump at the actuation point, paired with a polished and creamy feel, enhancing the typing experience for those who enjoy feedback with each keystroke. The Jupiter Banana's two-stage springs contribute to its soft backlight effects and consistent return, creating a satisfying typing rhythm that many find more enjoyable for everyday use. Both switches cater to different preferences and needs, making the choice between them largely dependent on whether you prioritize speed and smoothness or tactile feedback and a rich 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

Bsun Chiikawa - 28g Linear

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$2.80 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron Jupiter Banana, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This commonality results in a crisp and clear sound profile, as polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a more resonant acoustic experience. The translucency of the polycarbonate further enhances the visual appeal, especially when RGB lighting is involved, allowing for effective light diffusion. Since both switches share this top housing material, users can expect similar sound characteristics when typing, as the sharper pitches and clear tones will be prevalent in both models.

In contrast, the bottom housing of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron Jupiter Banana both incorporate nylon. This choice of material has a profound impact on the auditory experience as nylon is softer compared to polycarbonate and absorbs sound more effectively. As a result, when typing on either switch, users will notice a deeper and fuller sound profile, attributed to the nylon's ability to create a duller and rounder acoustic quality. This similarity in bottom housing materials ensures that both switches will provide a satisfying and rich sound feel upon bottoming out, further complementing their overall typing experience.

While the shared materials for both the top and bottom housings in the Chiikawa - 28g and Jupiter Banana lead to complementary sound profiles, it is essential to consider the interplay between these materials. The polycarbonate top contributes sharply to the sound when releasing a key, whereas the nylon bottom significantly influences the sound and feel during the bottoming out process. This unique combination allows for a diverse auditory experience across the two switches, where the polycarbonate adds brightness to the lift-off while the nylon introduces warmth to the bottom-out. Consequently, both the Chiikawa - 28g and Jupiter Banana offer nuanced and engaging sound profiles, making them suitable options for different typing preferences.

Weight

When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Chiikawa switch features a relatively light actuation force of 28 grams and a slightly higher bottom out force of 34 grams. In contrast, the Jupiter Banana is significantly heavier, with an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams. This disparity makes the Chiikawa switch better suited for users seeking a lighter touch, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. Meanwhile, the Jupiter Banana provides a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy resistance, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, if you prefer a lighter switch for comfort and prolonged use, the Chiikawa would be the better choice, whereas the Jupiter Banana caters to those looking for a more tactile and enduring experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Chiikawa has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jupiter Banana measures slightly shorter at 3.4 mm. This means that if you opt for the Chiikawa switch, you will experience a deeper travel distance, which can provide a more substantial tactile feedback for users who prefer a hearty key press. Conversely, the Jupiter Banana, with its shorter travel distance, may be more appealing to gamers and those seeking quicker response times. While some may favor the more abrupt feel of a shorter travel distance, others might appreciate the pronounced depth of the Chiikawa switch. In summary, if responsiveness is your priority, the Gateron Jupiter Banana is the way to go, while the Bsun Chiikawa will satisfy those who prefer a more pronounced key feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Chiikawa - 28g linear switch produces a bright and crisp sound profile, making it very responsive and engaging when typing. This high-pitched tone can be satisfying for those who appreciate a more articulate auditory response. By contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch also delivers a high-pitched sound, characterized as sharp and resonant. This auditory clarity offers a clean and immersive experience, which caters to users who prefer less bassy sound profiles. Both switches create an engaging auditory experience, though their tonal qualities may vary slightly depending on the keyboard and keycap choices.

When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 28g’s tactile attributes are somewhat less defined in the provided information, leaving its smoothness and responsiveness open to interpretation. In juxtaposition, the Gateron Jupiter Banana shines with its polished feel, attributed to either quality materials or factory lube that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Furthermore, the "creamy" texture that users can expect from the Jupiter Banana enhances the overall typing experience, providing a silky sensation that allows fingers to glide effortlessly over the keys. This notable refined feel could be a strong betterment compared to the Chiikawa, depending on the unknown qualities of its tactile feedback.

Overall, while the Chiikawa - 28g and Gateron Jupiter Banana present distinct auditory and tactile qualities, they both cater to different preferences. The Chiikawa emphasizes a bright sound profile combined with light actuation, which can be ideal for those who enjoy quick and responsive typing. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana's refined and creamy feel, coupled with a sharp auditory experience, makes it suited for users looking for a smooth and engaging typing action. The choice between these switches ultimately hinges on individual preferences, but both promise to deliver enjoyable and satisfying experiences.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a lightweight feel and responsiveness, the Chiikawa switch, with its low 28g actuation force and 34g bottom out force, might be your best bet. It's perfect for fast typists or gamers who thrive on quick, precise keystrokes and appreciate the bright, high-pitched sound profile that accompanies each key press. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial, tactile feedback while typing, the Jupiter Banana, with its medium-heavy 69g bottom out force, would likely suit you better. Its polished and creamy feel, combined with a robust tactile bump, provides a satisfying and immersive typing experience, ideal for both everyday typing and gaming. Therefore, consider whether you value a lighter, more responsive switch or a tactile, substantial switch to make your decision. Each switch offers a unique experience that can significantly enhance your keyboard's performance, so choose based on what feels right for you!

Mentioned in this article

Bsun Chiikawa - 28g Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more