Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, preferences often sway between the light, fluid touch of linear switches and the pronounced feedback of tactile switches. The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g exemplifies the linear switch category with its remarkably low actuation force and distinct bright sound profile, offering users a responsive typing experience characterized by a crisp, high-pitched sound that enhances the overall enjoyment of typing. This makes the Chiikawa ideal for those who prioritize quick keystrokes and minimal resistance, perfect for gaming or fast-paced typing scenarios. In contrast, the KTT Matcha presents a delightful tactile experience marked by its "snappy" and "stepped" characteristics, providing a satisfying tactile bump that users can feel with each keystroke. The Matcha also features a clean bottom-out sound, making it a solid choice for those who enjoy feedback while typing, thus appealing to users who prefer a blend of auditory and tactile sensations. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
28g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the KTT Matcha switches showcase both similarities and significant differences that influence their overall sound profiles. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which contributes a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound signature due to the stiffer nature of the material. This property enhances resonance, making it beneficial for any RGB lighting effects incorporated into the design, as polycarbonate's translucency allows light to pass through effectively. Consequently, users seeking bright and vivid lighting effects will find that both switches deliver similar aesthetic results in terms of light diffusion and visual appeal when it comes to their top housings.
In contrast to the top housing, the bottom housing materials diverge significantly. The Chiikawa - 28g employs nylon, a softer plastic that provides a fuller and more rounded sound profile. This quality is especially crucial, as it affects the "bottom-out" sound and tactile feedback of the switch. The nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, leading to a deeper auditory experience when typing. Conversely, the KTT Matcha features a polycarbonate bottom housing, echoing the characteristics of its top housing. Hence, the Matcha produces a sharper and more resonant sound profile. The differences in bottom housing material between the two switches create a notable distinction in performance; while the Chiikawa may offer a softer typing experience, the Matcha leans more towards a brighter, punchier sound.
Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in each switch shapes the user's overall experience and sound profile. Activating the switches will yield different auditory results based on the qualities of the materials used. In the case of the Chiikawa, the nylon bottom enhances its deep sound, while the KTT Matcha’s purely polycarbonate design fosters a crisp sound throughout the key press. Therefore, while they may share similarities in their top housing, the differences in their bottom housing result in distinctly different auditory experiences, giving users a variety of options to cater to their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Chiikawa switch features a light actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it a preferred choice for those who favor lighter typing sessions, ideal for extended work or gaming use. In contrast, the Matcha switch has a stronger actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. As such, the Chiikawa switch is the lighter option, while the Matcha switch is the heavier one. Users looking for a lighter touch will find the Chiikawa more suitable, allowing for easier and quicker typing, whereas those who appreciate the feedback and firmness of a heavier switch will likely prefer the Matcha. Overall, the difference in weight between the two switches provides distinct typing experiences catering to different user preferences.
Travel distance
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Matcha tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This makes the Chiikawa the shorter option, providing a quick and responsive feel that can be advantageous for gamers who favor rapid key presses. On the other hand, the Matcha offers a more traditional travel distance, which may appeal to those who appreciate a deeper, more tactile experience when typing. If you prefer the shorter actuation for speed, the Chiikawa switch would be the better choice, while the Matcha may be better suited for users who enjoy a more pronounced depth with their keystrokes. Overall, selecting between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sensitivity and feedback.
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 KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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
When it comes to sound, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch offers a bright sound profile that is both crisp and high-pitched, making it particularly responsive during typing. Its light actuation force enhances this sound quality, allowing for a more pronounced acoustic feedback that is pleasing in shorter keystrokes. In contrast, the KTT Matcha tactile switch presents a distinctively clacky sound. Characterized by a sharp and snappy auditory feedback, the Matcha produces a clean bottom-out sound resulting from its long pole stem, further enriching the typing experience. While the Chiikawa excels with its bright notes, the Matcha provides a more percussive quality that many typists find satisfying, depending on their personal preferences.
In terms of feel, the Chiikawa - 28g is exceptionally light and responsive, allowing for effortless keystrokes that can benefit long typing sessions. Its unique characteristics suggest a typing experience that minimizes fatigue, making it easier to type for extended periods. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is celebrated for its snappy, stepped feel, which creates a dynamic typing experience. The tactile bump provides clear feedback without overwhelming the user, making it suitable for both casual and more intensive tasks. Additionally, the Matcha's overall feel is accented yet subtle enough to avoid being distracting or harsh on the fingers, striking a balance that many typists appreciate.
In conclusion, both switches cater to different typing experiences while offering their own distinct qualities. The Chiikawa - 28g is ideal for those seeking a very light, bright, and responsive typing experience, while the KTT Matcha appeals to those who enjoy a tactile, snappy feedback with a clacky sound profile. Your choice between the two will ultimately depend on whether you prioritize a lightweight linear feel or a satisfying tactile response, with both offering enjoyable experiences in their own right.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing style and preferences. If you lean towards light switches that provide a crisp, responsive feel with a bright sound profile, the Chiikawa - 28g would be ideal for you, especially if you favor a gentle typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue. This switch is perfect for extended sessions of typing or gaming where quick response and a bright auditory feedback can enhance your experience. In contrast, if you enjoy tactile feedback and prefer a more pronounced keystroke with a pronounced sound profile, the KTT Matcha will serve you well. Its snappy actuation and clean bottom-out sound deliver a satisfying tactile sensation, which can be particularly beneficial for those who type with varying force or want a switch that offers more pronounced feedback. Subtle yet comfortable, the Matcha is well-suited for both productivity and leisurely typing, making it an excellent choice for shared workspaces. Ultimately, assess your typing preferences—whether you desire a lighter, linear feel or a more tactile experience—to select the switch that aligns best with your needs.
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