Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the KTT Pine linear switches represent two distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The Chiikawa - 28g is celebrated for its exceptionally light actuation force and bright sound profile, offering a responsive and high-pitched acoustic feedback that can make every keystroke feel lively and engaging. In contrast, the KTT Pine boasts a medium-heavy actuation force, characterized by its buttery smooth feel and low-pitched, bassy sound. This combination creates an effortless typing experience, with a polished, factory-lubed finish that minimizes friction and enhances key travel. Depending on whether you prefer a lightweight, responsive experience or a more cushioned, smooth feel, each switch has unique advantages. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
28g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the KTT Pine, it is important to note that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, primarily due to polycarbonate's stiffness. As noted in both descriptions, polycarbonate's translucency also makes it an excellent choice for RGB lighting applications, allowing the light to pass through effectively. Therefore, users can expect similar aesthetic advantages and sound quality characteristics from the top housings of both the Chiikawa - 28g and the KTT Pine, which contribute to a brighter and more resonant auditory experience.
However, the differences in the bottom housing materials between the two switches highlight a significant contrast that affects overall performance and sound profiles. The Chiikawa - 28g features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon's softer composition. This material absorbs more sound, leading to a rounder auditory experience. Conversely, the KTT Pine incorporates polycarbonate in its bottom housing as well, which will likely produce a heightened and clearer sound, similar to its top housing. This means that while both switches may share a crisp sound from their polycarbonate tops, the Chiikawa's nylon bottom will yield an overall more muted, rich sound, providing a notably different tactile experience when typing.
Ultimately, the interaction between the different housing materials significantly affects the behavior of each switch. With the Chiikawa - 28g combining a stiffer polycarbonate top with a softer nylon bottom, users are likely to experience a balanced and versatile typing experience that emphasizes a fuller sound on bottoming out. In contrast, the KTT Pine, which features polycarbonate both in the top and bottom housings, will likely produce a consistent and bright sound profile throughout its entirety. In essence, while both switches can achieve similar results in terms of sound sharpness due to their polycarbonate tops, the different dynamics introduced by their respective bottom housings will create distinct typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Chiikawa switch has a lighter actuation force at 28 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a softer touch for longer typing sessions or extended gaming. In contrast, the Pine switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing. Regarding the bottom out forces, the Chiikawa switch's bottom out force is 34 grams, whereas the Pine switch reaches a heftier 58 grams. This larger difference further emphasizes the Pine's more robust tactile feedback compared to the Chiikawa's gentler response. Overall, the Chiikawa switch is the lighter option, while the Pine switch is the heavier choice, catering to different user preferences in typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Chiikawa - 28g has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Pine switch measures 4 mm. This makes the Chiikawa the shorter option, which aligns with the trend that some users, particularly gamers, might prefer for its faster response times. On the other hand, the KTT Pine, with its longer travel distance, offers a more substantial feel that some users might find more satisfying, catering to those who enjoy a heartier depth in key presses. If you're looking for a quicker action, the Chiikawa switch would likely meet your needs better, while the Pine switch may appeal to those who favor a more traditional, deeper pressing experience.
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 Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine 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
In terms of sound, the Chiikawa - 28g linear switch delivers a bright and crisp sound profile, which provides a high-pitched auditory feedback that many typists find engaging and satisfying. This quality makes the Chiikawa especially appealing for those who enjoy a more vibrant typing experience. Conversely, the KTT Pine switch produces a deeper and richer sound characterized as bassy and low-pitched. This switch tends to resonate with a heavier tone, creating a mellow auditory experience. Due to the inherent differences in their sound profiles, typists using Chiikawa switches can expect a more lively sound while those using Pine switches will appreciate a fuller, more grounded acoustic feedback. Keep in mind that the sound can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard, keycaps, and the environment.
When considering the feel of each switch, the Chiikawa - 28g is known for its very light actuation force, which makes it exceptionally responsive and ideal for fast-paced typing. Its lightweight nature allows for quick key presses, giving the user a sense of agility in their typing speed. In contrast, the KTT Pine is described as buttery smooth, facilitating an effortless and uniform typing sensation. It offers a medium-heavy tactile feedback due to its polished finish, making the keystrokes feel silky as they glide into each press. Despite their differing actuation weights, both switches offer unique typing experiences that can cater to personal preferences—some may favor the quick response of the Chiikawa, while others may appreciate the smooth, creamy transition of the Pine.
In conclusion, the Chiikawa - 28g and KTT Pine linear switches provide distinctive auditory and tactile experiences that cater to varied typing styles. The Chiikawa switch shines with its bright, high-pitched sound and lightweight feel, promising liveliness and responsiveness. On the other hand, the KTT Pine offers a deeper, bassy sound paired with a buttery smooth actuation for those who prioritize comfort in their keystrokes. Ultimately, each switch’s unique properties will guide newcomers in selecting the right one depending on their sound and feel preferences, ensuring that even though they differ, both can yield an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, consider your typing style and preferences. If you prefer a lighter touch with a very responsive feel, the Chiikawa - 28g may be the better choice for you. Its low actuation force and bright, high-pitched sound profile make it great for fast typing or gaming, where every keystroke needs to be quick and precise. The crisp and lively feedback can often enhance the overall typing experience for users who enjoy a more tactile and engaging interaction with their keyboard. On the other hand, if you favor a more substantial, buttery smooth experience, the KTT Pine switch would be ideal. With a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a deep, bassy sound profile, these switches offer a more robust typing feeling that many people find satisfying during longer typing sessions. The polished, factory-lubed finish of the Pine switches ensures a smooth keystroke with minimal friction, making them an excellent choice for those who appreciate a creamy texture while typing. Ultimately, your choice should align with your personal preferences for actuation force, sound, and overall feel, ensuring that you enjoy the best possible experience with your mechanical keyboard.
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