Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch represent two distinct philosophies in key feel and sound. The Chiikawa - 28g is celebrated for its extremely light actuation force and bright sound profile, offering a notably responsive typing experience characterized by crisp, high-pitched sounds. This switch is ideal for those who prioritize speed and smoothness, making it perfect for rapid typists or gamers looking for quick transitions without resistance. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis features a tactile bump with a slightly higher actuation force of 37g, providing a satisfying feedback that minimizes finger fatigue during extended use. With its deeper, bassy thock-like sound, this switch appeals to users who enjoy a more engaging tactile feedback that enhances the overall typing experience. Both switches have their unique advantages, catering to different preferences and typing styles; 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
37g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches share a significant similarity in their top housing, as both utilize polycarbonate. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, enhances the switch's resonance, leading to clean sound articulation. Additionally, both switches take advantage of polycarbonate's translucency, making them ideal for scenarios involving RGB lighting. As a result, users can expect a visually appealing light diffusion alongside a sound profile that emphasizes clarity and brightness, particularly when the keys are released.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the two switches differentiate them significantly. The Chiikawa - 28g features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer material. This results in a sound that is more muted and rounded, impacting the overall typing experience. Meanwhile, the KTT Phalaenopsis employs a polycarbonate bottom housing as well, mirroring the properties of its top. The inclusion of polycarbonate in the bottom allows for a crisper sound, maintaining consistency in the sharpness of sound across both the bottom and top. Consequently, this divergence means that while the Chiikawa offers a muted bottom-out sound due to the nylon material, the Phalaenopsis keeps a more pronounced sound profile throughout.
When considering the impact of these materials during use, the differences become apparent. The nylon bottom housing in the Chiikawa will lead to a typing experience characterized by a softer, cushioned feel, particularly noticeable when bottoming out, resulting in a distinct auditory experience compared to the Phalaenopsis's sharper sound. In the Phalaenopsis, both the top and bottom housings contribute to a consistent sound profile, ensuring that the sonic characteristics are more aligned. Consequently, while both switches offer an engaging experience, the Chiikawa leans toward a deeper, richer sound, whereas the Phalaenopsis provides clarity and brightness throughout, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for auditory feedback.
Weight
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch features a lighter actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it a suitable option for those who prefer effortless typing over extended durations, such as during long work hours or gaming sessions. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, appealing to users who favor a more substantial typing experience and tactile feedback. While both switches have distinct weight characteristics that cater to different preferences, the Chiikawa - 28g is the lighter option, suitable for users seeking light keystrokes, whereas the Phalaenopsis offers a firmer feel with its heavier forces. Therefore, selecting between these two switches largely depends on your typing style and comfort level with force feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference, as the Chiikawa has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Phalaenopsis measures 4 mm. The Chiikawa switch's shorter travel distance makes it a suitable choice for those seeking quicker response times, which is often favored by gamers for enhanced performance. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more satisfying and traditional typing experience for those who appreciate a more pronounced key travel. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Chiikawa switch would be the better option, whereas if you prefer a deeper, more tactile feel, the Phalaenopsis would be preferable.
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 KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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
The sound profile of the Chiikawa - 28g linear switch is characterized by a bright and crisp tone, creating a high-pitched auditory feedback that many typists find engaging. This light sound can enhance the typing experience, especially for those who prefer an acoustic signature that draws attention without being harsh. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offers a bassy and thocky sound, providing a deeper and richer auditory experience during key presses. This sound quality can create a satisfying auditory feedback, reminiscent of a soft thud or knock, which many typists enjoy, especially when combined with the right keyboard and keycaps. Thus, while the Chiikawa offers a high and light sound, the Phalaenopsis presents a deeper, more resonant tone, appealing to different auditory preferences.
When it comes to the feel of each switch, the Chiikawa - 28g is notable for its very light actuation force which allows for a highly responsive typing experience, likely facilitating rapid key presses with minimal finger fatigue. This feature can be especially appealing for gamers or typists who type for long periods. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis has a more nuanced tactile experience due to its stepped design, providing a discernible bump at the actuation point. This bump offers satisfying feedback that enhances typing precision, making each keystroke feel deliberate and intentional, although it may not be as light and effortless as the Chiikawa's linear feel.
In summary, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. The Chiikawa's bright sound and light, smooth feel promote fast and effortless typing, while the Phalaenopsis offers a richer sound with pronounced tactile feedback that adds to the deliberateness of each keystroke. Ultimately, your choice between them will depend on whether you prioritize a lightweight, responsive typing experience or a more tactile and acoustically satisfying one.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, your choice should hinge on both your typing preferences and the context in which you’ll be using your keyboard. If you prioritize a light actuation force and a responsive feel, particularly for gaming or fast-paced typing, the Chiikawa - 28g is an excellent option, thanks to its 34g bottom-out force and crisp, high-pitched sound that enhances the experience of rapid keystrokes. This switch is ideal if you enjoy a smoother, more linear typing feel without the tactile feedback; it can also contribute to a more dynamic and engaging auditory experience for those who appreciate a brighter sound profile. On the other hand, if you're looking for a satisfying typing experience with a tactile bump that provides clear feedback with each keystroke, the KTT Phalaenopsis is your go-to choice. Its 50g bottom-out force gives you that delightful tactile feedback without being overly strenuous, making it well-suited for long typing sessions where minimizing finger fatigue is crucial. The deeper, thocky sound profile adds richness to every keystroke, further enhancing the tactile sensation. Ultimately, the right switch for you will depend on your specific needs: choose the Chiikawa for a light and swift appeal, or the Phalaenopsis for a gratifying and engaging tactile experience.
Mentioned in this article
