Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices are the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Outemu Blue, each catering to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. The Chiikawa - 28g is praised for its very light 28g actuation force, making it exceptionally responsive and perfect for those who favor quick, effortless keystrokes. Its bright sound profile produces a crisp, high-pitched tone, adding a satisfying auditory element to your typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Blue switch offers a classic clicky feedback that many users find gratifying, although it is heavier and requires more force to actuate, making it suitable for those who prefer a more tactile response and audible confirmation with every keystroke. While both switches have their unique appeals—ranging from the rapid-fire capability of the Chiikawa to the pronounced feedback of the Outemu Blue—each caters to different styles and preferences. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
28g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and Outemu Blue switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, a material known for its stiff nature that contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal of switches, especially for users who enjoy RGB lighting, as it allows light to diffuse elegantly through the housing. The shared characteristic of polycarbonate atop both switches indicates that users can expect similar auditory experiences when activating the switches, particularly in terms of the higher-pitched tones produced upon key release.
In contrast, the bottom housings of these two switches introduce variances that can significantly affect their sound signature and tactile feedback. Both the Chiikawa - 28g and Outemu Blue utilize nylon as the material for their respective bottom housings. Nylon is celebrated for its sound-absorbing properties and delivers a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This shared use of nylon contributes to a rounder sound when pressing the keys, allowing for a smooth typing experience that contrasts nicely with the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate tops.
Considering the interactions between the two housing materials, it becomes clear that the combination results in a well-rounded typing experience. The polycarbonate tops ensure the sound produced is vibrant and clear, while the nylon bottoms dampen the sound to provide a balanced auditory result. Since both switches utilize the same materials in their top and bottom housings, users can expect similar acoustic characteristics. By emphasizing the strengths of both materials, the switches create a harmonious sound profile that satisfies a wide range of preferences for tactile and auditory feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation forces. The Chiikawa switch has a lighter actuation force of 28 grams, making it more suitable for prolonged typing sessions and gaming, as users can benefit from reduced finger fatigue. In contrast, the Outemu Blue switch features a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. While the Chiikawa's bottom out force is 34 grams, providing a definitive tactile response when fully pressed, the bottom out force for the Outemu Blue is unavailable. Consequently, users seeking a lighter typing experience would gravitate toward the Chiikawa, while those desiring a heavier engagement might find the Outemu Blue to be their preferred choice.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, the Chiikawa features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Blue has a more traditional distance of 4 mm. This difference means that the Chiikawa may provide a more responsive feel, which is often favored by gamers who require quick key presses for efficient gameplay. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue's longer travel distance results in a more pronounced depth, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial tactile experience. Ultimately, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Chiikawa is the superior option, whereas the Outemu Blue may be better suited for those who enjoy a more deliberate press.
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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 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
The sound profiles of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch highlight their distinct auditory characteristics. The Chiikawa - 28g is celebrated for its bright and crisp sound, producing a high-pitched noise that is both engaging and satisfying while typing. In contrast, the Outemu Blue, not known for any specific sound profiles, typically features a clicky and more pronounced auditory feedback, which many typists find enjoyable as it provides a distinct audible cue with every keystroke. This notable difference means that while Chiikawa offers a clear and refined sound, the Outemu Blue would deliver a more mechanical and tactile auditory feedback.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Chiikawa - 28g is recognized for its very light actuation force, which results in a smooth and responsive typing experience that can be very comfortable for fast typists. The lightness of the switch makes it ideal for those who prefer minimal resistance when pressing keys. On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Blue switch, while not explicitly detailed here, is generally associated with a tactile bump and a heavier actuation force compared to linear switches. This combination often caters to users who enjoy the sensation of a pronounced engagement point with each keypress, making it suitable for those who prefer a more assertive feedback when typing.
In summary, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch offer contrasting auditory and tactile experiences. The Chiikawa boasts a bright and crisp sound with a very light feel, making it responsive and ideal for fast typists, while the Outemu Blue is characterized by its clicky auditory feedback and a more tactile experience. If you enjoy a lively sound and lighter key presses, the Chiikawa might be the better choice, whereas if you prefer tactile engagement with a distinct click, the Outemu Blue could be more suitable. Your preferences will guide you to the right switch based on these qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch largely depends on your personal typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prioritize a lightweight touch and quick responsiveness, the Chiikawa switch stands out, offering a softer typing experience with a bottom-out force of just 34 grams. Its unique bright sound profile and linear feel make it particularly suitable for fast typists or gamers who favor a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke—ideal for achieving rapid-fire inputs without the distraction of a tactile bump or audible click. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile experience with satisfying feedback, the Outemu Blue switch might be more to your liking. Its clicky sound and feel cater to those who enjoy a prominent auditory and tactile response while typing, making it a solid choice for typists who appreciate offering a gratifying sensation with each keystroke. Ultimately, it's about what enhances your typing experience—lightness and speed with the Chiikawa, versus the tactile satisfaction and distinctive sound of the Blue.
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