Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Bsun Ragdoll
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Bsun Ragdoll switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the merits of various options such as the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Bsun Ragdoll, both of which are linear switches tailored to distinct preferences. The Chiikawa - 28g is celebrated for its incredibly light 28g actuation force, resulting in a highly responsive typing experience characterized by a bright sound profile. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a quick, nimble feel that can enhance typing speed and accuracy. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll offers a smooth typing experience thanks to its Y3 stem and nylon-fiberglass bottom housing, which lends itself to a clackier sound that some users may find more satisfying. While both switches share the linear design that minimizes tactile feedback, they each cater to different auditory and physical preferences that can significantly affect one's typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
28g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Y3X
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Bsun Ragdoll, one can observe notable differences, particularly in the top housings. The Chiikawa - 28g features a polycarbonate top housing, which is celebrated for its rigidity that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This quality allows it to resonate clearly, especially when RGB lighting is utilized, as its translucency enhances the illumination. In contrast, the Ragdoll is equipped with a nylon top housing that inherently absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller audio experience. The softer nature of nylon contrasts with the stiffer polycarbonate, leading to a rounder, more muted sound that many users might prefer for a different tactile feedback.
Both switches, however, share the same material for their bottom housings: nylon. This commonality in housing materials results in a similar experience in terms of the deeper sound profile that nylon provides. The bottom housing's softer characteristics absorb noise and contribute to a more muffled sound during typing, regardless of the top housing material used. Thus, even though the Chiikawa - 28g and Ragdoll feature contrasting top housings, the identical nylon bottom housing guarantees that users will experience a consistent depth of sound and tactile feedback when bottoming out the switches.
Ultimately, the synergy between the distinct top housings and the shared bottom housing leads to unique yet comparable auditory experiences. The Chiikawa - 28g will provide a sharper, more resonant sound upon releasing the key, while the Ragdoll will deliver a softer and more rounded sound. However, in the context of the overall typing experience, both switches will still produce the same full-bodied sound during actuation due to their common nylon bottom housing. This blend of materials illustrates how the choice of housing can significantly influence the acoustics and tactile feedback in mechanical keyboards, while simultaneously showcasing the versatility of nylon as a foundational component.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch to the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, there is a distinct difference in actuation and bottom out forces. The Chiikawa offers a lighter typing experience with an actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a softer touch, which can be ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Ragdoll switch comes with a stronger actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, providing a more substantial feel that some users might appreciate for a more engaged typing experience. Thus, the Chiikawa is the lighter option while the Ragdoll is the heavier one. This difference in force characteristics allows users to choose according to their typing preferences: lighter forces for ease and comfort versus heavier forces for tactile feedback and sturdiness.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, the Chiikawa features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Ragdoll has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference indicates that the Ragdoll provides a more substantial keypress, likely offering a greater tactile feedback for users who prefer a deeper sensation when typing. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Chiikawa may appeal to gamers or users seeking quicker response times, making it more suitable for fast-paced activities. Ultimately, while both switches can deliver satisfying results, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference—whether one values a more responsive touch or a more pronounced keypress depth.
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 Bsun Ragdoll has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ragdoll for $3.29.
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 characterized by a bright sound profile that delivers a crisp, high-pitched tone while typing. This aspect makes it appealing for users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback. Conversely, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch offers a clacky sound due to its nylon-fiberglass bottom housing. The difference in sound profiles highlights how the Chiikawa is more focused on high-frequency clarity, while the Ragdoll leans towards a richer, percussive tone. It's essential to keep in mind that sound perception can also vary depending on the keyboard's material and construction, as well as the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 28g switch is known for its very light actuation force, making it notably responsive, which enhances the overall typing experience, especially for fast typists or gamers who value swift key presses. In contrast, the Ragdoll switch is equipped with a Y3 stem that contributes to smooth travel, ensuring a fluid keystroke experience. While both switches offer satisfying feedback, the lighter Chiikawa will likely appeal to those who prefer a feather-light touch, while the Ragdoll may be more suitable for users who appreciate a switch that provides smoothness without compromising on a more substantial tactile feel under their fingers.
Overall, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. If you lean towards a brighter sound and lighter actuation, the Chiikawa is your go-to. However, if you appreciate a smoother travel and a clackier sound, the Ragdoll may capture your interest. Ultimately, both switches can provide exceptional results, and your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switches, it ultimately comes down to your typing preferences and the experience you seek. If you favor a lightweight, responsive switch that brings a bright, high-pitched sound and a super light actuation force—perfect for gaming or fast-paced typing—then the Chiikawa - 28g is the ideal choice. Its crisp sound and ease of actuation make it particularly appealing for those who want quick, effortless keystrokes. Conversely, if you prefer a more substantial feel with a medium-light bottom out force and value a smooth key travel coupled with a clacky sound, the Ragdoll switch would be more suitable for your needs. The combination of a Y3 stem for smoother operation and a durable nylon-fiberglass housing adds a satisfying weight and acoustic character to your typing experience. Thus, whether you lean towards the light and nimble Chiikawa switches or the slightly more substantial and textured Ragdoll switches, each has its unique strengths that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
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