Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, users often find themselves choosing between various options that offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g switch stands out with its very light actuation force and a bright sound profile, making it exceptionally responsive and enjoyable for typists who appreciate a crisp, high-pitched auditory feedback. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is engineered for gamers, featuring a full-height design that maximizes speed and offers minimal spring resistance, allowing for instantaneous actuation—a crucial advantage in competitive gaming where every moment counts. While the Chiikawa - 28g may appeal to those seeking an agile and vibrant typing experience, the MX Speed Silver is aimed at those who prioritize rapid response and performance in fast-paced gaming scenarios. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
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 Cherry MX Speed Silver switches utilize different materials for their top housings, leading to distinct auditory experiences. The Chiikawa - 28g features a polycarbonate top housing, while the MX Speed Silver is equipped with a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile that is often favored for RGB lighting applications due to its translucency. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the MX Speed Silver produces a deeper, fuller sound because of its softer composition, which absorbs more sound and results in a rounder auditory experience. Therefore, users can expect a more vibrant keystroke feedback from the Chiikawa, while the MX Speed Silver will resonate with a more muted and robust sound.
When examining the bottom housings, both the Chiikawa - 28g and MX Speed Silver utilize nylon materials. This similarity means that the bottom-out feel and sound of both switches should be relatively consistent, as the properties of nylon create a deeper and fuller sound profile in the lower register. Since the bottom housing significantly influences the overall tactile feedback experienced when a key is pressed down, both switches will share this characteristic, offering a satisfying keystroke feel. However, the auditory difference will be most pronounced when a key is released, with the Chiikawa providing a crisper sound profile thanks to its polycarbonate top housing.
In summary, while both switches incorporate nylon for their bottom housings, creating a fuller sound and tactile experience when bottomed out, they diverge in the materials used for their top housings. The use of polycarbonate in the Chiikawa - 28g results in a clearer and brighter sound profile, especially suitable for aesthetics enhanced by RGB lighting, while the MX Speed Silver’s nylon top produces a softer sound. Users interested in a more vibrant auditory feedback might prefer the Chiikawa, while those seeking a calming, rounded tone may gravitate towards the MX Speed Silver. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, but the sound characteristics during key release will be notably different due to their top housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, a noticeable difference in actuation and bottom out forces emerges. The Chiikawa switch features a lighter actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or extensive gaming due to its reduced resistance. In contrast, the MX Speed Silver has a significantly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, though its bottom out force remains unknown. This means that the Chiikawa is the lighter option, providing a gentler touch, while the MX Speed Silver caters to those who prefer a firmer push feel, ideal for a more deliberate and substantial typing experience. Ultimately, if users seek a lighter touch for endurance, the Chiikawa will deliver results, whereas the MX Speed Silver may be favored by those who appreciate the increased weight and resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, there is a slight difference that may impact user preference based on their typing or gaming style. The Chiikawa switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the MX Speed Silver has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that for those seeking a more responsive feel, the MX Speed Silver may provide a quicker actuation, making it a favored choice for gamers looking for rapid response times. Conversely, the longer travel distance of the Chiikawa switch may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial key press and feel that adds depth to their typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference regarding key travel feel and response time, with the Chiikawa offering a more pronounced depth and the MX Speed Silver catering to those who favor speed and agility.
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 Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch is characterized by its bright sound profile, producing a crisp, high-pitched tone that is distinctly responsive, making it ideal for typing where each keystroke resonates clearly. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch offers a more subdued sound that leans towards a low-pitched, "thocky" quality. This means that when pressed, it emits a deeper, more muted sound reminiscent of a rich "thud" or soft "knock," which can create a more satisfying auditory experience for some users. It's important to note that the overall sound can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard construction and keycap material.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 28g is noted for its very light actuation force, making it easy to press and often giving it a very responsive feel suited for rapid input. However, details about its tactile feedback are less defined. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is described as having a textured feel, which introduces noticeable friction during key presses. This can provide a grounding sensation during typing, though some may find this texture to be slightly less smooth compared to lighter switches. The different actuation forces and feedback styles provide distinct experiences that cater to various preferences among users.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Cherry MX Speed Silver offer unique sound and feel characteristics that will appeal to different types of users. The Chiikawa emphasizes a bright and crisp auditory experience alongside a very light typing force, while the Speed Silver leans towards a thocky sound profile with a tactile, textured feeling that can be beneficial for gaming and fast-paced typing. While these switches provide diverse experiences, the choice ultimately depends on personal preference, and users can expect to achieve varying typing experiences with each switch based on their individual needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your specific use case and typing preferences. If you prioritize a light actuation force and a bright, responsive typing experience, the Chiikawa - 28g is an excellent choice. Its low bottom-out force of 34 grams allows for effortless keystrokes, making it particularly appealing for users who enjoy high-speed, casual typing where feedback and sound matter. Conversely, if you are an avid gamer looking for maximum speed and precision, the Cherry MX Speed Silver shines in that regard. With its rapid response and full-height design, it caters to the fast-paced demands of competitive gaming where every millisecond counts. Additionally, if you prefer a deeper sound profile and a textured feel, the Speed Silver's thocky signature makes it a satisfying choice. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by whether you need that lightweight, crisp feel of the Chiikawa or the quick, robust performance of the Speed Silver to enhance your typing or gaming experience.
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