Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Outemu Dustproof Green
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves drawn to unique options that offer distinct experiences. The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g switch, known for its exceptionally light actuation force of just 28 grams, stands out as a prime example of a linear switch, delivering a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke that many users appreciate for its responsiveness and comfort during extended typing sessions. With its crisp, high-pitched sound profile, the Chiikawa evokes a bright auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subtle yet satisfying key press. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green, characterized as a clicky switch, offers a completely different sensation, with an audible "click" that provides tactile feedback and a sense of satisfaction with each keystroke. While the clicky action is perfect for typists who enjoy a more pronounced auditory and tactile response, the Dustproof feature of this switch also makes it an appealing choice for those concerned about dust entering their keyboard. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference—whether you gravitate toward the light, smooth feel of the Chiikawa or the engaging click of the Outemu Green. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
28g
Actuation force
65g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
80g
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 the Outemu Dustproof Green switches share a commonality in their top housing composition, as both utilize polycarbonate, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This shared material contributes to a clear and resonant auditory experience, enhancing the overall acoustic performance of both switches. The translucency of the polycarbonate also serves aesthetic purposes, particularly for users who prefer RGB lighting effects. Opting for either the Chiikawa - 28g or the Dustproof Green will yield similar results in terms of top sound quality, making them appealing choices for those looking for clear sounds enriched by visual lighting elements.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, which is renowned for its ability to provide a deeper and fuller sound profile. The inherent characteristics of nylon—being a relatively softer plastic—allow it to absorb more sound than the harder polycarbonate, thereby creating a more muted, rounder auditory experience. This aspect of nylon contributes significantly to the bottom-out feel and sound of a switch press. As a result, users can expect consistent bottom-end acoustics and typing experiences across both the Chiikawa - 28g and the Outemu Dustproof Green, irrespective of their differing sound profiles stemming from the top housings.
In essence, both switch models feature a complimentary combination of housing materials that enhance their performance in unique ways. The polycarbonate top housing contributes clarity and brightness to the sound when the key is released, while the nylon bottom housing anchors the overall experience with its deeper tones during actuation. Since both switches share identical housing materials, users will experience similar acoustic characteristics, allowing them to select based on other preferences, such as brand or design, without compromising on sound quality.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Chiikawa switch features a light actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Dustproof Green switch has a significantly heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, catering to users who enjoy a more substantial, resistant feel when typing. This means that if you opt for the Chiikawa, you'll experience a softer keystroke with less fatigue over time, while the Outemu switch offers a sturdier experience that some might find more satisfying but potentially fatiguing during long use. Overall, the Chiikawa - 28g is the lighter option, while the Outemu Dustproof Green is the heavier choice.
Travel distance
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference indicates that the Chiikawa switch allows for a quicker response time, making it an appealing choice for gamers seeking rapid actuation. In contrast, the Dustproof Green switch’s 4 mm travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for users who prefer a more traditional typing experience, as it aligns with the most common travel distance of 4.0 mm. Ultimately, the shorter Chiikawa switch caters to those who favor immediacy, whereas the longer Outemu switch may feel more substantial and less abrupt during use.
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 Green 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 is characterized by a bright sound profile that produces a crisp, high-pitched tone when typing, making it quite engaging and satisfying for those who prefer an audible feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch does not have a specified sound profile available, which leaves its auditory characteristics open to interpretation. Considering that sound can also be influenced by the keyboard's overall design, including the choice of board and keycaps, those factors will play a significant role in the ultimate sound experience for the Outemu switch.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Chiikawa - 28g offers a very light actuation force, allowing for rapid keystrokes and a nimble typing experience, making it particularly appealing to those who prefer a lightweight touch. Unfortunately, the Outemu Dustproof Green switch lacks a clear description of its tactile experience, making it difficult to provide a direct comparison regarding how it feels during use. The overall feel will likely depend on personal preference and the user's distinct typing style.
In conclusion, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch stands out for its bright sound profile and light actuation force, delivering a highly responsive experience for typists who enjoy a more auditory feedback while typing. In comparison, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch does not provide enough specific information regarding its sound and feel characteristics, leaving potential users to consider their own preferences and experimentation. If you prioritize sound and a light touch, the Chiikawa is likely to suit you well, while the Dustproof Green could still be a wildcard option worth exploring despite its unknown qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and the type of work you do. If you favor a lighter actuation force and a more responsive feel, the Chiikawa - 28g is a fantastic option. Its 34-gram bottom-out force and bright, high-pitched sound make it ideal for fast typists or gamers who enjoy a quick and snappy response without much resistance. This switch can be especially advantageous if you spend long hours typing, as the lighter force can reduce finger fatigue. Conversely, if you prefer a heavier switch with a tactile feedback that gives you a satisfying click with each keystroke, the Outemu Dustproof Green is the way to go. With its 80-gram bottom-out force, it provides a more substantial feel, making it suitable for those who enjoy typing with more resistance and a pronounced auditory feedback. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a light and responsive typing experience or a solid, clicky feel that can be both engaging and satisfying to use.
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