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Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Outemu Milk Blue

An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between vastly different options such as the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch. The Chiikawa - 28g stands out with its exceptionally light actuation force and vibrant sound profile, delivering a responsive and satisfying typing experience with a high-pitched auditory feedback. This switch is perfect for those who prefer a smoother, quieter keypress with a consistent feel. In contrast, the Outemu Milk Blue offers a distinct clicky sensation that many typists adore. While it may require slightly more force to actuate, the audible click provides a tactile confirmation that is especially satisfying for those who enjoy the classic feel of older keyboards. Both switches cater to different preferences—whether you’re looking for a lightweight, smooth typing experience or the nostalgic click of tactile feedback. 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

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 the Outemu Milk Blue both feature polycarbonate top housings, which is a material known for producing a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This similarity in housing materials suggests that users of both switches can expect an identical auditory experience when pressed, as the rigid nature of polycarbonate facilitates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, both switches boast clear housings, enhancing their compatibility with RGB lighting setups. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant light diffusion, adding a visually appealing element to the overall typing experience.

While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, their bottom housings are also made of nylon, bringing a contrasting auditory characteristic to the mix. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively than the stiffer polycarbonate, thus generating a deeper, fuller sound profile. This means that while the top components of both switches produce a bright sound, the nylon bottoms contribute to a softer, more rounded feel during typing. This combination of a crisp top and a rich bottom in both switches leads to a unique sound experience that retains some similarities, allowing users to feel comfortable transitioning between them.

When considering the overall acoustic and tactile experience, the specific materials used in the Chiikawa - 28g and the Milk Blue provide complementary effects. The polycarbonate top imparts clarity and resonance, influencing the sound profile when keys are released, while the nylon bottom enriches the overall typing experience through its ability to absorb sound, especially upon bottoming out. Therefore, although there are variances in how each switch responds during different typing phases, the overall results in sound and feel will remain consistent. Users can expect an engaging combination of features that deliver a balanced performance, highlighting the strengths of both material choices.

Weight

When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, there is a significant difference in their actuation forces, which influences their overall typing experience. The Chiikawa switch has a relatively light actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it more suited for those who prefer a lighter touch and longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Milk Blue switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, catering to users who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing, although its bottom out force is unspecified. This means that while the Chiikawa switch is the lighter option, providing a gentler and perhaps more comfortable experience for extended use, the Milk Blue switch offers a firmer push that some may find more satisfying. Therefore, those who prioritize a softer keystroke may opt for the Chiikawa switch, while those who favor resistance and feedback should consider the Milk Blue switch.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm. This makes the Chiikawa switch the shorter option, which may be preferred by gamers looking for quicker response times. In contrast, the Milk Blue switch offers a longer travel distance, providing a more pronounced tactile feedback that some users might find more satisfying. Such a depth can feel more substantial and less abrupt, catering to those who appreciate a traditional typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding responsiveness and tactile sensation.

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 Milk 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

In terms of sound, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch is celebrated for its bright sound profile, producing a crisp, high-pitched sound that enhances the typing experience and provides auditory feedback that's both pleasing and responsive. In contrast, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch does not have a specified sound profile, but typically, clicky switches are known for their distinct and pronounced click during actuation, creating a satisfying auditory cue that many typists enjoy. The sound experience can vary based on the keyboard's build quality, choice of keycaps, and even the environment, so while the Chiikawa offers a clearly defined tonal quality, the Milk Blue likely provides a more traditional clicky experience.

When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 28g linear switch is known for its very light actuation force, which makes it incredibly responsive and ideal for those who favor a gentle typing experience. This makes it suitable for long typing sessions, as your fingers glide effortlessly over the keys. On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, while not specifically detailed, would generally include a noticeable tactile bump at the actuation point and a pronounced click, catering to users who prefer more feedback during their key presses. While one offers a smooth, linear experience, the other provides a distinct, tactile sensation with audible feedback.

In conclusion, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch presents a bright sound and light actuation force, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a responsive and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, while the specifics of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch's sound and feel are less defined, it is likely to offer the satisfaction of a tactile and audible click that appeals to traditionalists. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences in the typing experience, with the Chiikawa leaning towards those who enjoy a lighter and more fluid feel, while the Milk Blue satisfies those who prefer decisive clicks and tactile feedback.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch ultimately depends on your preferences for typing experience and sound. If you favor a lightweight typing feel and a smooth, linear response that minimizes actuation force, then the Chiikawa - 28g is ideal for you. This switch will allow for quick and comfortable typing sessions, especially if you tend to type for extended periods. Its bright sound profile adds an engaging auditory element without being too loud or distracting. On the other hand, if you enjoy tactile feedback and a pronounced click with each keystroke, the Outemu Milk Blue switch would be your go-to choice. Its clicky nature adds a layer of satisfaction while typing, making each keypress feel definitive. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you prioritize speed and lightness or tactile and auditory feedback in your keyboard experience.

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