Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often comes down to personal preference and tactile experience. The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch stands out for its remarkably light actuation force and bright sound profile, offering a highly responsive typing experience marked by a crisp, high-pitched sound. This switch may appeal to users who prioritize a nimble and airy feel with each keystroke, making it an interesting option for those who enjoy rapid typing or gaming. In contrast, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch boasts a smooth and substantial keystroke that many users find satisfying. Known for its resonant clacks and sharp bottom-out, this switch provides clear feedback that enhances enjoyment for both typists and gamers immersed in action. While both switches offer unique advantages, they cater to different preferences: the Chiikawa for its lightness and brightness, and the Matcha Green Pro for its solid and resonant feel. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro, it becomes evident that both switches utilize similar materials for their construction, leading to comparable acoustic characteristics. The top housing of both switches is made from polycarbonate, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This shared characteristic enhances the clarity of the auditory feedback during typing, giving users a satisfying experience. Additionally, both switches leverage the translucency of polycarbonate, making them ideal for RGB lighting effects, which enhances the visual appeal while maintaining sound quality.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of both switches utilizes nylon, which introduces distinct auditory qualities. Unlike the polycarbonate top housing that resonates sharply, the nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and more rounded sound profile. This characteristic comes from nylon’s softer nature, which absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in less harshness upon bottoming out. Consequently, even though both switches sport identical material profiles, the combination of polycarbonate on the top and nylon on the bottom allows them to blend their unique sound qualities. Users can expect a rich and well-rounded auditory feedback due to the nylon's contribution, while still enjoying the clarity enabled by the polycarbonate.
In essence, while the Chiikawa - 28g and the V3 Matcha Green Pro share the same housing materials, the differences in sound profiles attributed to their respective top and bottom materials create a unique typing experience for the user. The sharpness from the polycarbonate tops and the warmth of the nylon bottoms merge to produce an engaging duality in sound when engaging with each switch. This combination ensures that both switches deliver a satisfying and appealing auditory experience that can cater to diverse user preferences, despite their structural similarities.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, a distinct difference in actuation and bottom out forces emerges. The Chiikawa switch boasts a relatively light actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a light touch for longer typing sessions or extended gaming. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a significantly heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. This added weight may appeal to those who seek a more substantial typing experience. Consequently, the Chiikawa - 28g is the lighter option, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro is the heavier switch. Given the disparity between their forces, users are more likely to have contrasting experiences in terms of comfort and feedback when using these switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, we see a notable difference. The Chiikawa - 28g features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that if you choose the Chiikawa switch, you'll experience a quicker response due to its shorter travel distance, which is beneficial for gamers seeking faster input. Conversely, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro, with its longer 3.8 mm travel, may provide a more satisfying, deeper keystroke experience for users who prefer a more pronounced feel. Thus, if responsiveness is your priority, the Chiikawa - 28g is the better choice, while those who appreciate a fuller depth should opt for the V3 Matcha Green Pro.
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 Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro has an MSRP of $4.66 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Matcha Green Pro for $2.20.
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 is characterized by a bright sound profile that results in a crisp and high-pitched auditory experience when typing. This switch’s light actuation force contributes to its responsiveness, which can be quite satisfying for those who appreciate an engaging audio feedback. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches are known for their clacky and resonant sound. When typing on these switches, you can expect a sharp and snappy sound that is both clean and immersive, creating an auditory environment that is sure to enhance the typing experience. While both switches have their distinct sound qualities, the Chiikawa emphasizes brightness whereas the Matcha Green Pro delivers a more percussive clack.
When analyzing the feel of the two switches, the Chiikawa - 28g offers a notably light actuation force that enhances its responsiveness, making it feel almost effortless to type on. This lightness allows for quick and agile keystrokes which can be ideal for fast typists. In contrast, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro provides a bouncy and substantial sensation, giving users a reassuring feedback with each keystroke. The smoothness described in the Matcha Green Pro enhances the overall typing experience by providing a creamy, polished, and silky touch that minimizes resistance, creating a luxurious glide as your fingers dance across the keys. In their own ways, both switches cater to different preferences, with the Chiikawa designed for a lighter and responsive experience, while the Matcha Green Pro promotes a more solid and tactile feel.
In conclusion, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g is perfect for those who enjoy a bright sound profile and a light, responsive typing experience, while the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro resonates with individuals seeking a more substantial feel coupled with a distinct clacky sound. Although they represent different characteristics, the unique auditory and tactile sensations each switch offers cater to a variety of typing preferences, ensuring that newcomers to mechanical keyboards can find an option that aligns with their personal style.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switches will largely depend on your typing style and personal preferences. If you prefer a light actuation force with a bright, crisp sound profile, the Chiikawa - 28g is an excellent option. The 34 grams of bottom-out force contribute to a highly responsive experience, making it ideal for fast-paced typing or gaming, especially if you enjoy the audible feedback that comes with the high-pitched sound. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more substantial feel and prefer a switch that delivers both smoothness and a satisfying tactile response, the V3 Matcha Green Pro with its 63-gram bottom-out force may be better suited for you. The bouncy and creamy typing experience combined with a resonant clack will likely enhance your enjoyment during long typing sessions or gaming marathons. Ultimately, consider your own typing habits and the sensory feedback you desire from your mechanical keyboard to make the most informed choice between these two distinct yet appealing switches.
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