Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between different styles that cater to various typing preferences, such as the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower). The Chiikawa - 28g, a linear switch, is celebrated for its exceptionally light actuation force of 28g, offering a bright sound profile that results in a crisp and responsive typing experience. This makes it a superb choice for those who prioritize speed and fluidity in their keystrokes, allowing for rapid typing without the resistance found in heavier switches. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), a tactile switch, is designed for maximum tactility, delivering sharp feedback and a satisfying clack with each press. This switch caters to those who enjoy a pronounced tactile response, making it particularly appealing for typists who appreciate the physical sensation of activation. While both switches bring unique advantages to the table—speed and responsiveness versus tactile feedback—it's essential to explore their nuances further to determine which switch aligns best with your individual typing style and preferences. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Y3X
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) present distinct differences that significantly influence the overall sound profile and typing experience. The Chiikawa - 28g features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This characteristic makes it particularly suited for users seeking more clarity in their keypresses, especially under RGB lighting conditions where polycarbonate's translucency enhances the aesthetic appeal of the switch. Conversely, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) opts for a POM top housing, which, by nature, produces a more muted and deeper sound. The contrast between these materials showcases how the choice of housing can cater to different auditory preferences and user experiences.
When we look at the bottom housing, both switches utilize different materials that yield distinctive auditory influences. The Chiikawa - 28g employs a nylon bottom housing, a softer material that dampens sound waves and creates a fuller and rounder sound profile. This reinforces the deeper acoustics associated with the nylon while ensuring a comfortable keypress experience. In comparison, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) uses a POM bottom housing, which similarly fosters a muted and unique sound. However, the POM's intrinsic properties translate to a sound that remains pleasing yet distinct from nylon's tonal characteristics. Together, these differences highlight how typing feel and sound can vary considerably based on materials, even within the same family of switches.
Ultimately, while the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, they both offer a pleasing sound experience in their own right. Users can expect different auditory outcomes based on the distinct characteristics of polycarbonate and POM—where the sharper clarity of the Chiikawa’s top housing contrasts with the muted depth of the Sunflower’s. Despite their differences, both switches can deliver satisfying typing experiences by leveraging the unique qualities of their respective housing materials, resulting in a balanced sound profile tailored to individual preferences. Ultimately, users will find that the interplay of materials in each switch can create tailored auditory and tactile experiences, making both switches suitable but distinct choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, significant differences in actuation force and bottom out force emerge. The Chiikawa switch features a comparatively light actuation force of 28 grams, making it ideal for extended typing sessions, as it requires less effort to actuate. In contrast, the POM T1 has an unknown actuation force but boasts a much heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, which provides a more substantial tactile feedback for those who prefer a firmer push. This means that while the Chiikawa is the lighter option overall, favoring those who prioritize comfort during long use, the POM T1 appeals to users looking for a heavier feel. The bottom out force of the Chiikawa, at 34 grams, remains lower than that of the POM T1, further solidifying the Chiikawa's appeal to those who prefer a lighter switch. Thus, if you enjoy a gentler touch when typing, the Chiikawa - 28g is your better choice, while the POM T1 is suited for those seeking a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, a distinct difference emerges. The Chiikawa switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the POM T1 measures slightly longer at 4 mm. This makes the Chiikawa switch the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers or those seeking quicker key presses and a more responsive feel. On the other hand, the POM T1, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more cushioned experience, ideal for users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback when typing. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your personal preference for depth versus responsiveness.
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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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
When it comes to sound, the Chiikawa - 28g linear switch produces a bright, high-pitched auditory profile that is crisp and sharp. Its lightweight actuation force contributes to the clarity of each keystroke, making it particularly responsive and enjoyable for fast typists. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offers a resonant sound that is characterized by a clean and sharp auditory experience. The sound profile of the POM T1 is a bit more neutral, suitable for a range of environments, while the Chiikawa's bright sound provides a distinctly lively typing atmosphere. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences in sound; the Chiikawa shines in a lively, high-pitched manner, while the POM T1 balances a sharp yet resonant quality.
In terms of feel, the Chiikawa - 28g's characteristics remain unspecified, but its linear nature typically suggests a smoother typing experience without tactile feedback. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) provides a pronounced tactile sensation through its sharp bump, offering high feedback intensity with each keystroke. The tactile response becomes more invigorating due to its snappy design and accentuated feedback that ensures every press is felt distinctly. Compared to Chiikawa's likely smoother and unmarked feel, the POM T1 is much more interactive, appealing especially to those who seek a tactile typing experience.
In summation, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch present a diverse range of auditory and tactile experiences for keyboard enthusiasts. The Chiikawa offers a light, bright, and crisp typing sound, while the POM T1 features a resonant and neutral sound profile, appealing to different auditory preferences. On the tactile front, the Chiikawa is expected to provide a smoother experience without pronounced feedback, while the POM T1 excels with a sharp, snappy, and invigorating feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding sound and tactile feedback, making it essential for users to consider what attributes matter most to their typing enjoyment.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch ultimately depends on your individual typing preferences and intended use. If you value a lighter touch and prioritize responsiveness in your typing experience, the Chiikawa - 28g is an excellent choice. Its exceptionally low actuation force and bright sound profile make it ideal for fast-paced typing, especially in gaming or casual scenarios where you desire a quick response without significant fatigue. Conversely, if you are after a rich tactile feedback and a more pronounced typing experience, the Durock POM T1 will serve you well. With its medium-heavy actuation force and sharp tactility, it is perfect for those who appreciate the sensation of a tactile bump and enjoy a satisfying auditory feedback during each keypress. Whether you're a casual typist, a gamer, or someone who values a blend of acoustics and tactile feedback, considering these factors will guide your selection effectively.
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