Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often comes down to individual preference and typing style. The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g switch stands out with its exceptionally light actuation force and bright sound profile, providing a responsive typing experience that can energize your workflow. Designed for those who enjoy a fast and tactile response, this linear switch produces a crisp, high-pitched sound that adds a layer of auditory feedback to your keystrokes. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Grey switch offers a more subdued yet satisfying tactile experience, characterized by its pronounced bump and smooth keystroke. This tactile switch caters to users who desire a quieter typing option without sacrificing the tactile feedback that can enhance accuracy and satisfaction. By weighing these two options, it becomes clear that the Chiikawa - 28g is ideal for those seeking a light and brisk typing experience, while the Silent Grey is perfect for users prioritizing a quieter environment with satisfying 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
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Outemu Silent Grey, it is clear that both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This shared choice results in a sharper and crisper sound profile for both switches. The nature of polycarbonate—being a stiffer plastic—enhances sound resonance, making it a popular choice in switches designed for an RGB-lit environment. Both switches will thus offer an appealing aesthetic due to their translucency, allowing for vibrant illumination and engaging visual effects. Additionally, the similarity in top housing materials sets the foundation for users to expect a similar auditory experience when typing, especially in terms of the sound produced upon key release.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of the Chiikawa - 28g and the Silent Grey differentiate themselves, both incorporating nylon. This classic switch housing material is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to stiffer plastics, thanks to its acoustical properties. Nylon’s ability to absorb sound better than harder materials results in a softer, rounder sound when key presses are bottomed out. Because both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, users can anticipate a consistent auditory experience regarding the impact sounds when typing. This commonality underlines the thoughtful design behind both switches, focused on providing richness and depth to the typing experience.
Given that both switches combine polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom, users can expect a harmonized typing feel that balances the aspects of sound and tactility. While the Chiikawa - 28g and Silent Grey may have unique branding and design elements, the materials ultimately harmonize to create a well-rounded typing experience. The synergy of the polycarbonate and nylon in both designs aligns to deliver a crisp release sound from the polycarbonate top, complemented by a deeper bottom-out sound from the nylon. As a result, both switches can offer comparable performance in a variety of typing scenarios, appealing to different users who prioritize sound quality and responsiveness in their mechanical keyboard experience.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, there are clear differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Chiikawa features a lighter actuation force of 28 grams, requiring less effort to trigger a keystroke, while the Silent Grey has a significantly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. This makes the Chiikawa more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, as users may find it easier to type for long periods without fatigue. In terms of bottom out force, the Chiikawa again is lighter at 34 grams, compared to the Silent Grey's 65 grams; thus, the Chiikawa’s lighter weight and feel may appeal to those seeking a softer touch. In contrast, the Silent Grey’s heavier forces provide a more substantial typing experience, which some users prefer for the tactile feedback it offers. Overall, if you're looking for a switch that allows for effortless typing over long periods, the Chiikawa would be the ideal choice, whereas those who appreciate a firmer push may lean towards the Silent Grey.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch boasts a travel distance of 4 mm. This difference highlights a subtle contrast in the switches: the Chiikawa's travel distance is slightly shorter than the Silent Grey's, making it potentially more appealing to gamers who seek rapid response times. The shorter 3.6 mm distance may offer a snappier feel, catering to those who prefer responsiveness in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Grey's 4 mm travel distance aligns more closely with traditional switch designs, providing a deeper, more substantial feel that some users may find more satisfying during extended typing sessions. Thus, if users prioritize speed and efficiency, the Chiikawa is the preferred choice, while the Silent Grey may be better suited for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile response.
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 Silent Grey 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 known for its bright sound profile, producing a crisp and high-pitched auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience, making it a responsive choice for users who enjoy a more pronounced sound when typing. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch is designed for a much quieter operation, focusing on delivering a silent yet satisfying experience. The sound produced by the Silent Grey is subdued, allowing users to enjoy a tactile bump without the accompanying noise, making it ideal for quiet environments.
When discussing feel, the Chiikawa - 28g switch stands out with its very light actuation force, resulting in a smooth and responsive typing experience that allows for rapid key presses without much effort. This quality is particularly suited for those who prefer a light touch and quick typing speeds. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey switch provides a more tactile experience with a pronounced bump that is felt during the actuation. This tactile feedback, combined with a seamless keystroke, offers users a satisfying sensation that enhances the physical experience of typing while maintaining a degree of silence.
Overall, while the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and Outemu Silent Grey switches differ significantly in sound and feel, they cater to distinct preferences. The Chiikawa excels in delivering a light and crisp typing experience, making it suitable for those who appreciate auditory feedback, while the Silent Grey provides a quieter yet tactile experience ideal for users seeking satisfaction without noise disruption. Depending on your typing style and environment, both switches can yield a fulfilling experience, but choosing between them will ultimately depend on whether you prioritize sound or tactile feedback in your mechanical keyboard journey.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you plan to use them. If you enjoy a very light typing experience that allows for quick and responsive keystrokes, the Chiikawa - 28g is likely the better option for you. Its lower actuation force means you can type faster with minimal effort, and the bright, crisp sound profile adds an engaging auditory feedback that many find exhilarating during fast-paced typing sessions or gaming. However, if you work in a quieter environment or simply prefer a more subtle and tactile feel, the Outemu Silent Grey would better serve your needs. With a medium-heavy actuation force, it provides satisfying feedback without the noise, making it perfect for long typing sessions where concentration is key. In summary, choose the Chiikawa - 28g if you desire a light, lively typing experience, while the Silent Grey is ideal for those seeking a quieter, more tactile atmosphere.
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