Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron Lunar Probe offer enthusiasts two distinct yet appealing options, both falling under the category of linear switches. The Chiikawa - 28g is well-regarded for its exceptionally light actuation force and bright sound profile, delivering a responsive typing experience complemented by a crisp, high-pitched auditory feedback. In contrast, the Gateron Lunar Probe is known for its innovative dual rail mechanism, which ensures stable and consistent keypresses. This switch excels in providing a smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation while retaining a more subdued sound signature—ideal for users who prefer quieter operation. Whether you are drawn to the airy responsiveness of the Chiikawa or the reliable smoothness of the Lunar Probe, each switch has its strengths to enhance your typing experience. 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
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron Lunar Probe, the similarities are immediately striking. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, a material well-known for contributing to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is largely attributed to polycarbonate's stiffer composition, which allows for a clear and resonant sound that enhances the feel of typing. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches intended for RGB lighting setups, allowing the illumination to shine through vibrantly. Therefore, users can expect a similar auditory experience from both switches when it comes to how they sound on key release due to this shared material characteristic.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches are constructed from nylon, leading to a different auditory profile during key presses. Nylon is recognized for its softer composition, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when compared to harder plastics. This means that, while both the Chiikawa - 28g and the Lunar Probe will provide users with the sharper sound associated with polycarbonate at the top, the typing experience may feel rounder and more muted at the bottom due to the absorbing nature of nylon. This division in material characteristics highlights how the bottom housing contributes to the overall sound and feel during key presses and bottoming out, further diversifying the user experience between the two switches.
Ultimately, even though both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron Lunar Probe utilize the same materials for their top and bottom housings, their respective properties contribute uniquely to their performance. Users can anticipate a consistent and satisfying high-pitched auditory feedback from both switches when releasing a key, courtesy of the polycarbonate top housing. In contrast, the deeper, fuller sound produced during key presses will also feel similar given that both switches use nylon in their lower housings, underscoring how switches can create a well-rounded typing experience through the careful balance of materials. Thus, despite subtle differences in sound profiles, the shared housing materials ensure that users will enjoy comparable results across both switch options.
Weight
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch present a notable contrast in their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different user preferences. The Chiikawa has a light actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a gentler typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without strain. In contrast, the Lunar Probe features a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a more substantial feel for users who prefer a firmer keypress. Thus, while the Chiikawa switch is lighter and better suited for extended use, the Lunar Probe offers a stronger push, appealing to those who favor a more tactile response. Since the actuation and bottom out forces are not the same for both switches, users will experience distinct feedback based on their choice, highlighting the importance of selecting the switch that aligns with their typing style and preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch have an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that when you press down on a key, you'll experience the same amount of movement with both switches. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will have comparable tactile feedback and responsiveness regardless of which switch they choose. Therefore, if you're looking for a uniform feel in your typing experience, either option will deliver similar results.
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 Gateron Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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 crisp, high-pitched sound that adds an enjoyable auditory element to typing. Its bright sound profile gives feedback reminiscent of a more responsive typing experience. Conversely, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a more subtle sound signature thanks to its dual rail mechanism, which ensures stable keypresses. While both switches have their own distinctive audio characteristics, the Chiikawa offers a sharper sound that may appeal to users who appreciate noticeable auditory feedback, whereas the Lunar Probe leans towards a quieter, more refined sound ideal for users looking for a less intrusive typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 28g is known for its very light actuation force, making it notably responsive and easy to press down, which can be advantageous for rapid typing or gaming scenarios. This light touch can lead to a floating sensation while typing for some users. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe is praised for its incredibly smooth, pre-lubed linear action. The smoothness of the keypress enriches the tactile experience and allows for fluid strokes across the keyboard, providing a different sensory joy that does not distract from typing efficiency. While both switches offer linear movement, the Chiikawa caters to those who prefer lighter exertion, while the Lunar Probe offers a more sophisticated feel with its lube-enhanced smoothness.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and Gateron Lunar Probe linear switches provide unique auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The Chiikawa excels with its bright sound and lightweight, responsive feel, making it perfect for users who enjoy a more prominent auditory feedback and ease of actuation. In contrast, the Lunar Probe stands out with its subtle sound and incredibly smooth operation, attracting users who prioritize consistency and a refined typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can choose between these switches to achieve either an energetic typing environment with the Chiikawa or a smoothly flowing typing experience with the Lunar Probe.
Conclusion
To wrap up, choosing between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and actuation force. If you prefer an exceptionally light and responsive typing experience, the Chiikawa - 28g, with its 28g actuation force and crisp, high-pitched sound, may be the ideal choice for you. This switch is excellent for fast typists or gamers seeking quick actuation and a bright auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you value a more robust typing experience with a consistent feel, the Lunar Probe could be more suitable. With a higher bottom-out force of 50 grams and a smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation, the Lunar Probe provides a balanced typing experience complemented by a subtle sound signature that is less intrusive. Ultimately, if you are leaning towards speed and a lively acoustic profile, go with the Chiikawa - 28g; however, if you prioritize stability and a smooth tactile journey, the Gateron Lunar Probe would serve you better.
Mentioned in this article
