Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, choosing the right switch can significantly influence your typing experience, and two prominent options to consider are the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Dareu Master, both of which are linear switches. The Chiikawa - 28g is renowned for its extremely light actuation force of just 28 grams, offering a highly responsive feel and a bright, high-pitched sound profile that delivers a unique auditory experience with every keystroke. In contrast, the Dareu Master switch provides a more balanced medium weight, combining a classic clacky sound signature with exceptional smoothness thanks to its all-POM construction. While the Chiikawa switch excels in creating a lively and agile typing experience, the Master appeals to those who appreciate a polished and mild auditory feedback. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Y3X
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Dareu Master, significant differences in the choice of materials lead to distinct sound profiles. The Chiikawa - 28g features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is indicative of its stiffness. This clearer and more resonant sound is especially heightened when paired with RGB lighting, as the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for optimal illumination. In contrast, the Dareu Master's top housing is made of POM, known for producing a deeper and more muted sound profile. The POM material, while still providing satisfactory acoustics, tends to absorb more sound and create a less pronounced tonal quality compared to the Chiikawa's polycarbonate.
Examining the bottom housings reveals a further layer of variance, as the Chiikawa - 28g utilizes a nylon material, known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer plastic absorbs vibrations more effectively, contributing to a rounder and less sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Master's bottom housing is also constructed from POM. The dual use of POM in both the top and bottom allows for a more cohesive sound profile; however, it lacks the depth and resonance that nylon provides in the Chiikawa. Consequently, the overall sound experience of typing on each switch will differ, with the Chiikawa offering more clarity and brightness, while the Master delivers a more muted, cohesive tone.
Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials impacts the performance of each switch, leading to a varied typing experience. In scenarios where the top and bottom housing materials differ, like between the Chiikawa's nylon and polycarbonate versus the Master's dual POM construction, users will perceive distinct acoustic signatures. The Chiikawa's unique sound results from the enhancement of the top housing's sharper profile coupled with the nylon's richness in the lower range, creating an engaging auditory experience. Conversely, the Dareu Master's consistent POM material throughout provides a more uniform sound, which may appeal to those seeking a softer and less pronounced typing experience. While both switches offer their own unique characteristics, players may find delight in the polycarbonate's clarity of the Chiikawa or the deep, mellow tones of the Dareu Master based on their personal preferences.
Weight
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch present a noticeable difference in their actuation forces, which greatly influences their typing experiences. The Chiikawa switch has an actuation force of 28 grams, making it the lighter option, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons where minimal effort is preferred. In contrast, the Dareu Master features a significantly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel in their keystrokes. While the bottom out force for the Chiikawa is quantified at 34 grams, the bottom out force for the Dareu Master remains unknown. Thus, if the bottom out force of the Master were to be measured, it could provide further insights into the switch's characteristics and typing experience. Overall, the Chiikawa switch offers a lighter feel, while the Master delivers a heavier push, appealing to different preferences among users.
Travel distance
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Master linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference signifies that the Chiikawa switch allows for a bit more key travel, which can be preferable for users who enjoy a deeper key press, resulting in a more tactile feel. On the other hand, the Master switch, with its shorter travel distance, may cater more to gamers and users who prioritize rapid response times and quicker actuation. Thus, if you are seeking a more responsive experience, the Dareu Master might be the better choice, whereas the Bsun Chiikawa could be more appealing if you prefer a traditional feel with a bit more depth in your key presses.
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 Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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 profiles of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Dareu Master linear switch showcase distinct differences that cater to varying preferences. The Chiikawa - 28g is known for its bright and high-pitched sound, creating a crisp auditory feedback that many typists find satisfying and responsive. This light sound adds a vibrant character to each keystroke. In contrast, the Dareu Master switch exhibits a clacky quality, delivering a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. This clackiness, while still bright, embodies a more rounded auditory experience that many users associate with traditional mechanical switches. It’s important to note that sound can also be influenced by keycap and keyboard design, meaning that the actual acoustic experience may vary depending on the setup.
When considering the feel of these switches, the differences are equally apparent. The Chiikawa - 28g offers a very light actuation force, making it an exceptionally responsive switch that allows for quick typing without much effort. This lightweight feel can enhance the typing experience for those who prefer a more delicate touch. Conversely, the Dareu Master provides a mild experience that caters to a broader audience. Its polished finish ensures a smooth key travel, enhancing the overall tactile feedback while maintaining a gentle feel. This combination makes the Master switch approachable, striking a balance that many typists find comfortable without the pronounced characteristics that may not suit everyone.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and Dareu Master linear switches present unique qualities that appeal to different typing preferences. The Chiikawa switch emphasizes a bright sound and a very light touch for swift, responsive typing, while the Dareu Master combines a clackier sound with a mild, polished feel that appeals to a wider range of users. Depending on whether you prioritize sound clarity or a balanced typing experience, either switch can deliver satisfying results, providing compelling qualities that cater to various needs within the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a lighter and more responsive switch that offers a bright and crisp auditory feedback, the Chiikawa - 28g is an excellent option. Its low actuation force of 28g makes it particularly suitable for fast typists and gamers seeking rapid key presses with minimal effort. Moreover, if you appreciate a high-pitched sound profile that adds a bit of character to your typing experience, you’ll likely enjoy the Chiikawa switch.
On the other hand, if you're looking for a balance between feel and acoustics, the Dareu Master switch would be your go-to choice. With its medium weight, this switch provides a more controlled typing experience while also delivering a clacky sound that's engaging without being overly loud. The mild and polished characteristics ensure that you enjoy a smooth typing experience, making it an approachable option for users who value comfort and refinement in their keyboard setup. Overall, each switch caters to distinct preferences, and your selection should reflect whether you lean towards rapid, light keystrokes or a more balanced, polished typing experience.
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