Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Outemu Red

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and Outemu Red linear switches present intriguing options for typists and gamers alike. The Chiikawa - 28g is particularly notable for its remarkably light actuation force and bright sound profile, delivering a responsive and crisp typing experience that can enhance both typing speed and auditory satisfaction. In contrast, while the Outemu Red switch lacks the distinct sound character of the Chiikawa, it offers a smooth and consistent keystroke that many find ideal for a quieter typing environment, making it a favorite among gamers who prioritize quick and uninterrupted key presses. Each switch has its own merits, whether one seeks the lively auditory feedback of the Chiikawa or the subtlety of the Outemu Red. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Bsun Chiikawa - 28g Linear

Outemu Red Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Outemu Red both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which contributes to a distinct audio profile characterized by sharpness and clarity. The polycarbonate material, being relatively stiffer, enables a crisper sound that resonates well, which is particularly beneficial for those who prioritize auditory feedback in their typing or gaming experience. Furthermore, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, allowing RGB lighting to shine through effectively, resulting in a visually appealing setup. As such, users can expect a similar high-pitched auditory experience from both switches due to this shared top housing material.

When we delve into the bottom housing, both the Chiikawa - 28g and the Outemu Red feature nylon. This choice introduces a contrasting sound profile compared to their polycarbonate tops. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound waves, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory expression that enhances the overall experience. For both switches, this means that while the top housing contributes to the sound when releasing a key, the nylon bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel during key presses. As such, the overall acoustic profile of both switches merges the crispness of polycarbonate on top with the warmth offered by nylon below, creating a well-rounded auditory experience.

In summary, while the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Outemu Red may feature different aesthetic designs and branding, their construction materials are strikingly similar. The combination of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom guarantees that users will enjoy a composite acoustic experience with overlapping characteristics. This similarity in materials means that the switches will likely produce comparable sound profiles, delivering both clarity when releasing keys and depth when bottoming out. For those looking for consistent auditory performance, either switch will deliver similar results based on these shared housing materials.

Weight

The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch demonstrate notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces, highlighting distinct typing experiences. The Chiikawa switch features a light actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it ideal for users seeking a lighter typing experience for extended periods, such as during long work sessions or intensive gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Red switch, with a heavier actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, caters to those who prefer a more substantial push feel, enhancing the tactile feedback during typing. While the Chiikawa switch is the lighter option, providing a more effortless keypress, the Outemu Red's heavier forces offer a firmer response, appealing to different user preferences. Overall, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference regarding keypress force and typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, a clear difference emerges. The Chiikawa - 28g has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Red offers a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Chiikawa switch is the shorter option, catering to those who prefer a snappier response, commonly favored by gamers seeking faster key actuation. In contrast, the Outemu Red, with its more traditional 4 mm travel distance, provides a deeper feel that some users might find more satisfying and tactile. Therefore, depending on your preference for responsiveness or depth, you will achieve contrasting typing experiences with each switch.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch boasts a bright sound profile that resonates with a crisp, high-pitched tone when typing. This auditory characteristic contributes to an engaging typing experience, enhancing the overall satisfaction of each keystroke. In contrast, the Outemu Red linear switch lacks a well-documented sound profile, leaving its acoustic qualities somewhat ambiguous. However, it's important to remember that the sound of any switch is inherently influenced by additional factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycap material.

When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Chiikawa - 28g's very light actuation force makes it responsive and easy to press, ideal for those who prefer a light touch while typing. This lightness can lead to reduced finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the specifics of the Outemu Red linear switch in terms of feel are not provided, making it difficult to offer a direct comparison. However, many enthusiasts find that Outemu Reds often have a smooth keypress, typical of linear switches.

In summary, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch stands out with its bright sound profile and very light actuation, making it a great choice for users seeking a highly responsive typing experience. The Outemu Red linear switch, while lacking some descriptive qualities, may still offer a satisfactory performance typical of linear switches. Users looking for a similar experience in terms of sound or feel may find that both switches can provide enjoyable results, though the Chiikawa switch has a clear advantage in its defined auditory qualities and actuation ease.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a light and responsive feel, the Chiikawa - 28g is an excellent choice. Its low actuation force and 34-gram bottom-out make it perfect for rapid typing and gaming, allowing your fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. Additionally, its bright sound profile delivers a crisp auditory feedback that can make your typing experience feel more engaging and lively. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial and medium tactile experience, the Outemu Red switch—with its 62-gram bottom-out force—provides a firmer resistance that many typists find satisfying for longer typing sessions. Though it may not boast a distinct sound profile like the Chiikawa, it offers a steady and consistent performance that can enhance your precision in both gaming and typing without the overly light feel of the Chiikawa. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you value lightness and auditory feedback or prefer a firmer resistance and a straightforward typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Bsun Chiikawa - 28g Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Red Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more