Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, personal preferences can make all the difference. The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g is an enticing option for those who favor a linear switch; characterized by its remarkably light actuation force and bright sound profile, it offers a responsive typing experience paired with a crisp, high-pitched sound that many find enjoyable. Conversely, the Gateron Melodic stands out in the clicky switch category, bringing a new level of refinement to traditional clicky switches. With innovative features like smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, the Melodic provides an invigorating clicky sound and tactile feedback while ensuring a buttery smooth keystroke. Each switch offers unique advantages: the Chiikawa for users seeking speed and subtlety, and the Melodic for those who relish auditory feedback during each press. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and Gateron Melodic switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, lending them a similar sound profile characterized by sharpness and cripsness. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear, resonant sound when the key is released, an essential quality for users who prioritize acoustic feedback. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making these switches particularly appealing for those who enjoy a visually striking keyboard setup. The shared use of this material in the top housing means that both switches will provide a comparable auditory experience when engaging with the upper portion of each switch.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the Chiikawa - 28g and the Melodic are made from nylon, a classic switch material known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Needing to absorb sound rather than amplify it, nylon’s relatively softer characteristics create a duller and rounder acoustic experience when the switch bottoms out. This foundational sound quality is significant, as the nylon bottom housing influences the overall typing experience, particularly during key presses. Despite each switch's top and bottom housing being different in material, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon still provides a balanced auditory profile, allowing for a satisfying typing experience across the board.
Ultimately, while the top and bottom housing materials differ in both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron Melodic switches, the orchestration of both elements leads to a cohesive and engaging experience. The polycarbonate top brings clarity and brightness to the sound when keys are released, while the nylon bottom delivers a richer, fuller sound upon bottoming out. This interplay between the sharper high-pitched notes from the polycarbonate and the warmer tones from the nylon sets a dynamic stage for diverse typing experiences. Therefore, users can expect a similar blend of auditory effects whether they opt for the Chiikawa or Melodic, showcasing how different materials can complement each other to create an appealing sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, a notable difference arises in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Chiikawa switch features a relatively light actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it a great choice for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic switch has an unknown actuation force but a significantly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. This indicates that even without specific actuation force data, the overall pressing experience of the Melodic switch is likely to be more substantial and requires more effort, appealing to those who enjoy a firmer tactile feeling. Therefore, while the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g is the lighter option, promoting comfort over extended use, the Gateron Melodic is the heavier choice, offering a more pronounced typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it's clear that they differ in their specifications. The Chiikawa switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Melodic switch measures at 4 mm. This means that the Chiikawa has a shorter travel distance, catering to those who prefer a more responsive feel, which can be particularly advantageous for gamers aiming for quick key presses. Conversely, the Melodic switch, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial keystroke and the satisfying depth that comes with it. Overall, the choice between these switches will largely depend on personal preference: if you lean toward responsiveness, the Chiikawa is the better choice, while for a more pronounced typing experience, the Melodic is preferable.
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 Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 switch is characterized by its bright and crisp sound profile, producing a high-pitched tone that can be particularly satisfying during typing sessions. This makes it incredibly responsive and allows for an engaging auditory experience. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offers a resonant sound that is both clean and sharp, creating an immersive auditory experience. Additionally, it incorporates a crunchy element that evokes the sensation of stepping on autumn leaves, enhancing the overall enjoyment of each keystroke. While both switches provide distinct auditory characteristics, the Chiikawa - 28g leans more towards a high-pitch brightness, while the Melodic blends a resonant and crunchy touch to the soundscape.
Regarding feel, the Chiikawa - 28g is appreciated for its very light actuation force, which typically translates to a nimble and playful typing experience; however, specific descriptions of its tactile feedback are unavailable. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic presents a feel that is buttery and invigorating; it offers a smooth and fluid keystroke combined with pronounced feedback. This results in a typing sensation that can range from effortless to snappy and reactive, catering to a range of preferences for users who enjoy tactile feedback. While the Chiikawa switch may allow for a light and responsive experience, the Melodic arguably stands out with its balance of smoothness and tactile sensation, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback.
In summary, when choosing between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, users can expect two distinctly different auditory and tactile experiences. The Chiikawa provides a bright and light-feeling option that enhances responsiveness, while the Melodic offers a rich, resonant sound paired with a smooth and engaging typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will largely depend on the user's personal preference for sound and feel, as both can deliver enjoyable experiences, albeit in different styles.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lightweight switch that is exceptionally responsive with a bright sound profile, the Chiikawa - 28g is an excellent choice. Its low actuation force of 28g and bottom-out force of 34g make it ideal for those who enjoy rapid, light keystrokes and a high-pitched, crisp sound when typing. This switch is perfect for users seeking a fast and nimble feel, particularly in gaming or coding situations where quick inputs are crucial.
On the other hand, if you enjoy that classic typing experience enhanced by tactile feedback and an audible click, then the Gateron Melodic is the way to go. With its heavier bottom-out force of 60g, this switch is designed to provide a more deliberate typing experience, characterized by a resonant and crunchy sound that can make each keystroke feel satisfying and engaging. The advancements in smooth factory lubrication and design provide a buttery feel, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience without sacrificing the distinctive click sound that many users adore. Therefore, if you value a more tactile and auditory experience in your typing, the Melodic will likely suit your needs better. In summary, consider the Chiikawa for light, quick typing and the Melodic for a more robust, feedback-driven engagement.
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