Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the KTT Mint are two popular linear options that cater to distinct typing preferences. The Chiikawa - 28g is celebrated for its extraordinarily light actuation force of just 28 grams, allowing for quick, responsive keystrokes that make typing feel effortless. Coupled with a bright sound profile, this switch offers a crisp, high-pitched acoustic experience that some users find delightful. In contrast, the KTT Mint provides a satisfyingly smooth typing sensation, enhanced by its long pole stem, which produces a poppy thockiness that adds a unique heft to each keystroke. This switch boasts a low-pitched, neutral sound quality, making it a more subdued yet polished option for those who prefer a quieter workspace. While both switches offer a linear typing experience and cater to different auditory and tactile preferences, they each bring their own unique traits to the table. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
28g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the KTT Mint are notably similar, particularly with their respective use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches benefit from this choice, as polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant acoustic experience, ensuring that both switches sound bright and crisp when activated. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances RGB lighting effects, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts who value both performance and aesthetics. Consequently, users can expect a comparable auditory experience when using either switch, linked directly to the properties of their polycarbonate top housings.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both the Chiikawa - 28g and the KTT Mint is made from nylon, another shared characteristic that influences their sound profile. Nylon is recognized for its softer composition, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. This material is adept at absorbing sound, resulting in a sound profile that is rounder and less sharp compared to the impact of the polycarbonate top. As both switches incorporate this same material for the bottom housing, users will experience similar qualities during typing, particularly in terms of the bottoming-out sound and feel. The use of nylon here guarantees a consistent tactile response across both models, regardless of differences in their top hosing compositions.
Ultimately, while the Chiikawa - 28g and the KTT Mint feature different top housings, their shared nylon bottom housing creates a balanced auditory experience, allowing users to enjoy qualities inherent in both materials. The combined effects of the crisp polycarbonate top and the full-bodied nylon bottom result in a well-rounded sound profile across both switches. Therefore, users can expect similar results, whether opting for the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g or the KTT Mint, ensuring that both choices cater effectively to preferences for sound clarity as well as depth.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Chiikawa switch features a lighter actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a softer touch, allowing for extended typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the KTT Mint switch has a significantly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, which caters to users who enjoy a more substantial feel beneath their fingertips. This means that while the Chiikawa switch is optimal for those seeking lighter resistance, the KTT Mint provides the stability of a firmer keystroke. Thus, the Chiikawa is categorized as the lighter option, whereas the Mint is heavier, appealing to different user preferences based on typing style and ergonomics.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The Chiikawa - 28g features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Mint has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference indicates that the Chiikawa - 28g provides a more responsive feel, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker activation for their keys. On the other hand, the KTT Mint's longer travel distance can offer a more traditional typing experience that some users may find more satisfying or substantial. Thus, those who prefer a quicker response should opt for the shorter Chiikawa switch, whereas individuals who enjoy a deeper feel may favor the KTT Mint.
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 Mint comes in at $2.91 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 linear switch produces a bright and crisp high-pitched sound that stands out when typing. This gives it an assertive auditory presence, making each keystroke feel pronounced. Conversely, the KTT Mint linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, which gives it a more understated and bass-heavy character compared to the Chiikawa. While the Mint's sound may be described as mellow and moderate, it lacks the brightness of the Chiikawa, making it more subtle and less likely to draw attention in quieter environments. However, both switches’ sound can be influenced by the keyboard they are used with, including the type of keycaps and board construction.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 28g is notable for its very light actuation force, allowing for an extremely responsive typing experience. While the exact descriptor for its overall feel is not provided, the emphasis on lightness suggests a possibly airy touch, enhancing its crisp sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switch is characterized by a mild and polished feel. The mild nature ensures that the typing experience is approachable for most users, while the polished finish results in smooth key travel, reducing friction for a seamless typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences: the Chiikawa for those who prefer a lighter touch, and the Mint for those who enjoy a refined, smooth action.
In conclusion, while the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the KTT Mint linear switches have distinct characteristics in both sound and feel, they cater to different typist preferences. The Chiikawa’s bright sound and light feel offer a lively typing experience, perfect for users who enjoy quick, responsive switches. In contrast, the KTT Mint provides a more mellow sound and a smooth, polished touch, appealing to those who prefer a more subdued and refined typing experience. Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference, as the qualities of each switch can create different user experiences.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light and responsive typing experience, characterized by a high-pitched sound and a quick actuation, the Chiikawa - 28g is an excellent option. Its relatively low bottom-out force of 34 grams makes it particularly suitable for fast typists or those who favor a more delicate touch. This switch can provide a lively feel that enhances the typing experience, especially if you enjoy an engaging acoustic profile. On the other hand, if you lean toward a more balanced and smoother typing experience with a slightly higher actuation force, the KTT Mint is a great choice. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams offers a satisfying thockiness with a plush feedback that suits a variety of applications, whether you're gaming or typing for extended periods. The Mint's mellow sound profile and polished feel make it approachable and versatile for both casual and professional settings. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing habits, acoustic preferences, and whether you prioritize weight and feedback or sound and smoothness.
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