Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Bsun Light Sakura
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Bsun Light Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a central role, particularly with options like the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Bsun Light Sakura, both of which are linear switches yet cater to different typing styles and environments. The Chiikawa - 28g is best known for its extremely light actuation force of 28 grams, offering a bright sound profile that results in a crisp, high-pitched auditory feedback while typing. This switch is ideal for users who appreciate a tactile response and an engaging soundscape, making it a suitable choice for those who enjoy a lively typing experience. In contrast, the Bsun Light Sakura is designed for those prioritizing comfort and discretion; its ultra-light feel and silent operation make it perfect for extended typing sessions in office settings or shared spaces, allowing for a gentler, fatigue-reducing experience without disturbing colleagues. While both switches provide unique advantages—responsiveness and auditory feedback versus comfort and silence—your decision will ultimately depend on your typing preferences and environment. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Y3X
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Bsun Light Sakura, one of the most significant similarities lies in the materials used for the top housing. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which is known to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the material's stiffness, which allows for a clearer and more resonant sound during keystrokes. The use of polycarbonate is especially advantageous for those who utilize RGB lighting, as the material's translucency enhances the aesthetic appeal. Thus, in terms of the upper housing, users can expect similar auditory experiences and visual effects from both switches due to the identical materials.
Conversely, there is a notable difference in the materials used for the bottom housing of the two switches. The Chiikawa - 28g utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a fuller and deeper sound profile. This is a result of nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound and produces a rounder and duller auditory experience. In contrast, the Light Sakura is equipped with a polycarbonate bottom housing, which aligns with the same characteristics observed in its top housing. Therefore, it too emits a sharper and more resonant sound profile. As a result, the overall sound experience when utilizing the Bsun Light Sakura will likely be more similar to that of the Chiikawa - 28g's top housing, yet could present a distinct auditory quality due to the contrasting bottom materials.
The combined effect of these housing materials plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of each switch. In the case of the Chiikawa - 28g, the nylon bottom housing's characteristics will dominate the bottom-out sound, leading to a different tactile response compared to the Bsun Light Sakura. For the Light Sakura, the polycarbonate materials on both the top and bottom ensure that the switch remains consistently sharp and resonant. Thus, while the two switches share a similar top housing material resulting in comparable auditory qualities, the divergence in bottom housing materials will yield distinctly different overall experiences, ultimately shaping how users perceive their keystrokes for each individual switch.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch, notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Chiikawa - 28g has a notably lighter actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it more suitable for those who favor an easier typing experience, ideal for extended use during work or gaming. In contrast, the Light Sakura features a heavier actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial push feel when typing. Thus, while the Chiikawa - 28g is the lighter option overall, the Light Sakura offers a firmer typing experience, which some users may find preferable for its tactile feedback. Consequently, these switches cater to different preferences: the Chiikawa for those prioritizing lighter pressure and prolonged sessions, while the Light Sakura caters to individuals seeking a more robust keystroke experience.
Travel distance
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch both feature an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This similarity means that users can expect a consistent pressing experience when utilizing either switch, resulting in comparable tactile feedback and actuation sensations. Since the travel distance is the same for both switches, typing or gaming results will likely feel similar, allowing for a seamless transition between the two without any noticeable differences in feel or performance.
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 Light Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Sakura for $3.49.
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 sound profile characterized by its high-pitched resonance. This auditory feedback can be quite satisfying for those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic experience while typing. On the other hand, the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch is engineered for a silent operation, prioritizing discretion and minimizing noise. This makes it an excellent choice for environments where quiet typing is essential, allowing users to type without the typical click or clatter associated with mechanical switches. Due to the differences in design intent, users can expect a stark contrast in auditory experience between the two switches.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 28g is known for its very light actuation force, making it incredibly responsive and easy to press, which can enhance typing speed and reduce finger fatigue during long sessions. Its light touch can feel somewhat playful, offering a fast and engaging typing experience. Contrastingly, the Light Sakura switch also features an ultra-light feel, designed for comfort over extended typing periods. Both switches cater to a similar user base that values low actuation force, but the Chiikawa’s responsiveness may offer a slight edge in a fast-paced typing environment.
In conclusion, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switches present different approaches to sound and feel, catering to diverse user preferences. While the Chiikawa switch delivers a bright, engaging sound with a playful responsiveness, the Light Sakura focuses on silent operation and comfort, ideal for quiet or shared spaces. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize acoustic feedback or a discreet typing experience, but both switches promise a light feel that enhances user comfort during prolonged use.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch ultimately depends on your priorities when it comes to typing experience and environment. If you value a very light actuation with a crisp, bright sound profile, the Chiikawa - 28g would be a fantastic option. Its light, responsive feel and high-pitched acoustics make it an excellent choice for those who enjoy tactile feedback and are perhaps more on the enthusiastic side of typing, whether for gaming or fast-paced writing. On the other hand, if you seek a more subdued and comfortable typing experience, particularly in quieter environments like offices or shared spaces, the Bsun Light Sakura is likely your best bet. With a slightly higher bottom out force, it offers a gentle, fatigue-reducing experience that prioritizes silence and discretion over sonic feedback, allowing you to immerse yourself in long typing sessions without disturbing those around you. In the end, your choice should reflect your specific needs for sound, feel, and the environments in which you'll be using your keyboard.
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