Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Outemu Dustproof Black present intriguing options for gamers and typists alike, each with their own unique attributes. The Chiikawa - 28g, renowned for its exceptionally light 28g actuation force, offers users a highly responsive typing experience complemented by a bright, crisp sound profile that can enhance the overall auditory feedback while typing. This switch is perfect for those who prefer a swift and delicate touch, making it an attractive choice for fast typists seeking agility in their keystrokes. Meanwhile, the Outemu Dustproof Black, while lacking specific standout features, provides an effective and robust option for users who prioritize durability and a consistent feel in their typing experience. Although both switches are linear, the Chiikawa’s lightweight mechanism may appeal to those who enjoy a more lively interaction, whereas the Dustproof Black may cater to individuals who appreciate steadfast reliability in their daily use. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
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 the Outemu Dustproof Black switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which provide a distinct auditory experience. With the use of polycarbonate, both switches deliver a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, attributed to the stiffness of the material. This quality enhances the overall resonance of the switch, enabling users to enjoy a more pronounced sound when typing or gaming. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is particularly beneficial for users who appreciate RGB lighting; a clear top housing allows the light to shine through, augmenting the visual appeal of the keyboard setup.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches are crafted from nylon, a classic material recognized for its softer characteristics. Nylon’s ability to absorb sound leads to a deeper and fuller auditory experience, creating a more subdued and rounded sound when keys are bottomed out. This effectively complements the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top, resulting in a balanced audio profile when both housings are taken into account. By combining these two differing materials, the Chiikawa - 28g and Dustproof Black switches offer distinct tactile and auditory experiences, merging the clarity of polycarbonate with the warmth of nylon.
When considering the overall performance of the switches, the combination of materials plays a crucial role in determining the typing experience. While both switches share the same top housing material, the unique properties of the nylon bottom housing ensure that the sound and feel at the bottom-out stage differ from the release of the key. This divergence allows users to enjoy a complex audio layering, with the brightness of the polycarbonate on release contrasting effectively with the rich depth provided by the nylon when pressed down. Therefore, although the Chiikawa - 28g and Outemu Dustproof Black utilize similar materials, their interplay creates a unique experience that caters to both auditory and tactile preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch to the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, significant differences in actuation force and bottom out force become evident. The Chiikawa switch has an actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it substantially lighter than the Outemu Dustproof Black, which features a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams. This means that users of the Chiikawa switch might find it easier to type for extended periods due to the lower force required, making it ideal for long work sessions or gaming. Conversely, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may gravitate toward the Outemu switch, which offers a stronger resistance, providing a firmer feel when typing. Overall, if you're looking for a lighter switch to enhance endurance during long hours of use, the Chiikawa is the better choice, whereas the Dustproof Black is suited for those who desire a more robust tactile response.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in their specifications. The Chiikawa - 28g features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, whereas the Dustproof Black has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing the keys, the Chiikawa offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more immediate tactile experience. In contrast, the Dustproof Black provides a more extended travel distance, catering to those who prefer a deeper, more substantial feel in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences: for a snappier, more responsive experience, the Chiikawa is the better option, while the Dustproof Black may be preferable for users who enjoy a heartier typing experience.
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 Dustproof Black 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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch stands out with its bright sound profile, delivering a crisp and high-pitched auditory feedback that makes typing feel engaging and dynamic. This lively sound can enhance the overall experience, particularly for those who enjoy the auditory aspect of their typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch does not have any specific sound characteristics noted, which suggests that it may offer a more neutral acoustic profile, likely leaning toward a quieter operation. Consequently, if you prioritize a more pronounced sound, the Chiikawa switch will cater to that preference, while the Dustproof Black may provide a more subdued auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 28g provides an exceptionally light actuation force, making it highly responsive and suitable for rapid typing. This characteristic can make it easier to press keys quickly, which is particularly beneficial for gaming and fast-paced typing situations. This switch's lighter feel can also reduce finger fatigue over extended use. In contrast, there is no specific description provided for the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, leaving its tactile characteristics somewhat ambiguous. This uncertainty means one may need to experience the Dustproof Black in person to ascertain how its feel compares to the noticeably lighter and more responsive Chiikawa switch.
In conclusion, while the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g is distinguished by its bright sound profile and very light actuation force, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch remains a bit of an unknown in both sound and feel aspects. The Chiikawa offers an engaging auditory experience and a light, responsive feel, making it ideal for those who enjoy a lively typing experience. Meanwhile, the Dustproof Black may appeal to individuals who prefer a more subtle sound profile and are open to discovery regarding its tactile feedback. For best results, it's worth trying both types to see which aligns better with your preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you appreciate a tactile experience enhanced by a lightweight actuation force—making each keystroke feel responsive and quick—then the Chiikawa switch might be your ideal choice. Its 34-gram bottom-out force allows for effortless typing, making it especially suitable for those who type frequently or play fast-paced games where speed is crucial. Additionally, its bright sound profile adds a delightful auditory element to your typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel and a slower typing experience, the Outemu Dustproof Black, with its heavier 80-gram bottom-out force, could be more suitable. This switch is geared towards individuals who favor a firmer resistance while typing, which may help reduce accidental key presses. As it bears the hallmark of being dustproof, it also offers durability in environments where dust could be a concern. Ultimately, your choice should reflect not only the typing experience you seek but also the environments in which you typically use your keyboard.
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