Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Kailh BCP
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Kailh BCP switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Kailh BCP stand out for their distinct characteristics, each catering to different typing preferences. The Chiikawa - 28g is recognized for its exceptionally light actuation force and bright sound profile, which results in a super responsive typing experience accompanied by a crisp, high-pitched sound. This makes it an appealing choice for those who seek quick keystrokes and an engaging auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Kailh BCP offers a unique blend of elasticity and bounce, reimagining the beloved Black Cherry Pies with custom-molded designs that eliminate the need for disassembly. The BCP switches provide a rich, poppy, and clacky sound profile, endorsing a more tactile feel that many users find satisfying. Both switches have their merits, appealing to different needs within the keyboard enthusiast market; the Chiikawa for nimbleness and bright sound, and the BCP for a fuller, bouncier typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
28g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Kailh BCP, there are distinct differences that influence the acoustic qualities of each switch. The Chiikawa - 28g features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its rigidity and translucency. This rigid construction contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, making it especially suited for RGB lighting setups due to its clear aesthetic. In contrast, the Kailh BCP employs a nylon top housing, characterized by its softer and more absorbent nature. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile, giving the BCP a rounder auditory experience. Thus, while the Chiikawa - 28g is engineered for a crisper sound, the BCP is designed for a more subdued and warmer acoustic presence.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which establishes a level of sound consistency in terms of acoustic performance. The nylon material in both cases helps absorb sound, producing a deeper and more full-bodied bottom-out experience for the user. This means that both switches share some similarities in tactile feedback; however, the impact of the top housings diverges. With the nylon bottom housing in both the Chiikawa - 28g and the BCP, the bottom-out sound will retain a certain depth, but the characteristics imparted by each switch's distinctive top housing will ultimately dictate their respective sound profiles.
In summary, while both the Chiikawa - 28g and Kailh BCP utilize nylon in their bottom housings, the choice of top housing material creates significantly different sound outputs. The polycarbonate top of the Chiikawa results in a crisper acoustic delivery, particularly on key release, whereas the nylon top of the BCP leads to a warmer and more rounded sound. If users are seeking a balance of clarity and depth, they may appreciate the Chiikawa - 28g for its sharper high notes, while those leaning towards softness and fullness in sound may prefer the Kailh BCP's more muted tones. Ultimately, the combination of distinct top and bottom housing materials in both models results in unique auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences in the keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, there is a clear distinction in weight preference that can influence the typing experience. The Chiikawa switch features a lighter actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it ideal for users who favor a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons. In contrast, the Kailh BCP switch has a much heavier actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This medium-heavy resistance may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the Chiikawa is the lighter option, while the BCP is noticeably heavier, catering to different user preferences based on typing style and comfort.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, we find that the Chiikawa has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the BCP features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Chiikawa the longer traveling switch, offering a bit more depth than the BCP. For those who appreciate a more substantial keypress, the Chiikawa may provide a more satisfying experience. Conversely, gamers or users who favor quicker response times might lean toward the BCP, as its shorter travel distance can facilitate faster actuation. Despite the difference, both switches are relatively close in travel distance, suggesting that users looking for a balance between responsiveness and depth could achieve similar outcomes by opting for either option.
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 Kailh BCP has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.75.
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 produces a bright, crisp, and high-pitched auditory experience, making it especially responsive and pleasant for those who fancy a more acute sound while typing. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP switch delivers a signature poppy and clacky sound profile that is richer and slightly more textured. While both switches cater to distinct auditory preferences, the overall sound experience will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard construction and the type of keycaps used, meaning you could achieve varied results with either switch on a different setup.
When considering the feel of each switch, the Chiikawa - 28g is characterized by its very light actuation force, contributing to a notably smooth typing experience that facilitates quick and effortless keystrokes. In contrast, the Kailh BCP switch offers a creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy feel, allowing typists to enjoy a more dynamic response with a bit more resistance compared to the Chiikawa. These differing tactile responses mean that while both switches are linear and smooth, they cater to different typing preferences, with the Chiikawa leaning towards lightness and agility and the BCP prioritizing a more textural, springy sensation.
Collectively, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch showcase distinct auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different user preferences. The Chiikawa excels in providing a light, sharp, and responsive touch, while the BCP enriches the typing journey with its unique elastic feel and deeper sound profile. Depending on your typing style and auditory tastes, choosing between these switches will ultimately reflect your personal preferences, keeping in mind that additional factors such as the keyboard and keycap selection can significantly influence your overall experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, consider your preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and typing experience. If you lean towards a lightweight feel and a high-pitched, bright sound, the Chiikawa - 28g is an excellent option, particularly if you enjoy a responsive typing experience that requires minimal effort. This switch is ideal for fast typists or gamers who benefit from its light actuation force and satisfying audible feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force with a unique, creamy, and bouncy typing sensation, the Kailh BCP may be more to your liking. Its poppy and clacky sound profile adds character to your keystrokes, making it great for those who appreciate a more tactile auditory feedback while getting the satisfying resistance that comes with its heavier bottom-out force. Ultimately, your choice should align with your personal typing style and the kind of experience you seek from your mechanical keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
