Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Huano Matcha Latte V2
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves navigating a diverse landscape of options, two popular contenders being the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Huano Matcha Latte V2, both of which fall under the category of linear switches. The Chiikawa - 28g is notable for its exceptionally light actuation force of just 28g, paired with a bright sound profile that delivers a sharp, responsive typing experience—ideal for those who appreciate a tactile auditory feedback. Conversely, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 offers a more nuanced approach, providing a smooth, balanced linear feel with a satisfying bottom-out experience, complemented by factory lubrication that reduces stem wobble for enhanced stability. While the Chiikawa caters to users seeking an energetic and expressive typing session, the Matcha Latte V2 promises a refined, consistent performance at an accessible price point. 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
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
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The comparison of housing materials between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 reveals notable differences, particularly in their top housing choices. The Chiikawa - 28g features a polycarbonate top housing known for delivering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, largely due to the stiffness of the material which enhances resonance. Polycarbonate, with its translucent quality, also synergizes well with RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 utilizes a POK top housing, composed of polyketone, which boasts an impressive coefficient of friction and exceptional durability. While POK provides a smooth typing experience, it does not achieve the same high-pitched clarity as polycarbonate, producing a smoother yet clackier sound instead. As a result, the sound profiles between these two switches differ, with the Chiikawa offering a clearer tone, while the Matcha Latte presents a more subdued but still crisp character.
On the other hand, both switches employ nylon for their bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This consistency in material choice aids in providing a rich typing experience across both switches, utilizing the natural sound-absorbing properties of nylon. Regardless of the top housing variation, the nylon bottom contributes to a more rounded auditory experience when bottoming out. As nylon absorbs sound better than its harder counterparts, both switches will deliver a robust and resonant feel with each keystroke, ensuring that the characteristics of the bottom housing remain prominent in their sound signature.
Ultimately, while the top housing of the Chiikawa - 28g and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 is made from different materials, they both craft a unique sound experience by combining their respective top materials with the commonality of nylon in the bottom housing. The different top materials mean that the tactile feedback and initial sound upon key press will vary; however, the underlying warmth and fullness provided by the nylon bottom housing will create a cohesive typing experience across both models. Whether one prefers the sharper clarity of polycarbonate or the smooth feel of POK, the presence of nylon ensures that both switches yield a satisfying bottom-out sound and feel, highlighting the unique strengths of each configuration.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch, distinct differences in actuation forces become apparent. The Chiikawa switch features a notably lighter actuation force of 28 grams, which is designed for easy typing and prolonged use, making it ideal for those who prefer less finger fatigue during extended sessions. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 has a considerably heavier actuation force of 45 grams, appealing to users who favor a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Unfortunately, the bottom out force for the Matcha Latte V2 is not available, which limits a direct comparison in that aspect. However, we do know that the Chiikawa switches have a bottom out force of 34 grams, reflecting a softer feel overall for this switch. Ultimately, the Chiikawa is the lighter option, making it suitable for extensive typing or gaming, whereas the Matcha Latte V2, with its higher actuation force, caters to those who prefer a firmer keystroke.
Travel distance
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch both exhibit the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, resulting in a similar tactile experience when pressed. Since both switches travel the same distance from top to bottom, users can expect comparable results in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness. The identical travel distance allows for a consistent typing experience across both switch types, making them suitable options for those who prioritize similar key feedback in their mechanical keyboards.
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 Huano Matcha Latte V2 comes in at $3.99 per 10 switches.
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 switch is characterized by a bright sound profile that produces a crisp, high-pitched sound when typing, adding an engaging auditory element to the typing experience. Conversely, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 is known for a smooth and subtle linear typing sound, emphasizing a quieter operation that feels more refined. While the Chiikawa puts out a more pronounced auditory feedback, the Matcha Latte V2 offers a sound that's more understated and pleasant, showcasing how the overall sound experience can also depend significantly on the keyboard build and keycap choices.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 28g is distinguished by its very light actuation force, which makes it remarkably responsive, giving it a unique and lively typing sensation. This dynamic feel caters well to typists who prefer swift and agile keystrokes. The Matcha Latte V2, in contrast, presents a balanced typing experience with a satisfying solid bottom-out feel, enhanced by generous factory lubrication that minimizes any stem wobble. This results in a smoother and more comfortable typing experience, appealing to users who appreciate a blend of lightness and stability in their key presses.
Overall, both the Chiikawa - 28g and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switches offer unique attributes that cater to different preferences. The Chiikawa’s bright sound and very light actuation make it ideal for users seeking immediate responsiveness and a lively auditory experience, while the Matcha Latte V2 delivers a refined, smooth experience with a solid feel. Choosing between these options will ultimately depend on whether you prioritize sound clarity and responsiveness or a balanced and premium-feeling keystroke experience. In either case, both switches promise distinct qualities that will enhance your mechanical keyboard usage.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you lean towards a light and responsive switch that delivers a bright sound profile, the Chiikawa - 28g might be your best bet. Its low actuation force and crisp acoustics make it ideal for fast-paced typing and gaming, allowing for quick key presses and a lively auditory feedback that can enhance your overall experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more stable and smooth typing experience, the Matcha Latte V2 is an excellent option. Known for its balanced feel and premium performance, it provides a solid bottom-out sensation while maintaining a subtle linear action—perfect for those who enjoy typing for extended periods without fatigue. In summary, choose the Chiikawa - 28g if you value lightness and sound, and opt for the Matcha Latte V2 if you prioritize smoothness and a satisfying keystroke feel.
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