Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly influence the typing experience, and two popular options are the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Outemu Red Panda. The Chiikawa - 28g, a linear switch, is renowned for its ultra-light actuation force and bright sound profile, providing a uniquely responsive experience that enables quick typing with a distinctly crisp feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda, classified as a tactile switch, offers a delightful combination of light-medium tactility and a distinct acoustic profile characterized by a bassy sound upon bottoming out and a sharp, higher-pitched sound when releasing the key. Choosing the Chiikawa - 28g may appeal to those who prioritize speed and a lighter feel, while the Red Panda might attract users who enjoy the satisfaction of tactile feedback and a varied auditory experience. 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
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and Outemu Red Panda switches feature identical housing materials, with both utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. This similarity in materials creates a comparable sound profile as both polycarbonate and nylon exhibit well-defined acoustic properties. The polycarbonate top housing in both switches produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound, enhancing the clarity and resonance during use. This characteristic is particularly appealing for enthusiasts who favor crisp auditory feedback, especially when RGB lighting is involved; the translucency of polycarbonate beautifully displays lighting effects, adding an aesthetic dimension to the user experience.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Being a softer plastic, nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials, resulting in a noticeably rounder and more muted auditory experience when the key bottoms out. This cushioning effect means that while both switches provide a bright and clear sound during key release, the bottom-out sound is dulled and more subdued due to the nylon. This combination of materials allows users to experience a balanced mix of auditory feedback that is both crisp upon releasing the keys and rich when pressing them down.
In summary, while both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and Outemu Red Panda switches utilize similar materials, creating a harmonized sound profile, their differences in the arrangement of these materials lead to distinct sensory experiences. Users can anticipate a sharp top-end clarity complemented by a fuller, softer sound at the bottom. The configurations of polycarbonate and nylon allow for a balanced interaction, where the top housing enhances the sound upon release while the bottom housing provides a more rounded auditory presence during the key press. Thus, switching between these brands can yield remarkably similar results due to their shared material properties, making either choice a favorable option for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch exhibit notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Chiikawa requires a lighter actuation force of just 28 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a softer feel that minimizes fatigue during lengthy typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Red Panda switch has a significantly heavier actuation force of 50 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Corresponding to their actuation forces, the bottom out forces also reflect this trend: the Chiikawa has a bottom out force of 34 grams, while the Red Panda's is 60 grams. Thus, users looking for a lighter switch experience should opt for the Chiikawa, whereas those desiring a robust feel with a stronger push should consider the Outemu Red Panda.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is evident that they differ slightly. The Chiikawa switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the longer option, while the Red Panda switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it the shorter one. This difference aligns with current trends where gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times; therefore, the Red Panda might appeal to those prioritizing fast action. Conversely, the Chiikawa, with its greater depth, may be favored by users who appreciate a more substantial feel when pressing the keys. Overall, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for either a more responsive or a heartier typing 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 Outemu Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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 characterized by a bright and crisp sound profile, producing a high-pitched tone that responds well to quick typing. This light auditory feedback can be particularly enjoyable during fast-paced gaming or typing sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offers a more dynamic auditory experience; it features a deep, thocky sound that resonates with a satisfying bassy note upon bottoming out, complemented by a clackier, higher-pitched sound when releasing the key. This creates a distinct contrast between the two, with the Chiikawa focusing on a lighter, more effervescent sound, while the Red Panda provides richer and more varied acoustic feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 28g is designed with an extremely light actuation force, making it exceptionally responsive and easy for quick keystrokes. This allows for a very fluid typing experience, but it may lack the pronounced tactile feedback some typists enjoy. In contrast, the Outemu Red Panda presents mild tactility, creating a gentle tactile bump that offers a more significant sensation during each keypress. This middle-ground feel is approachable for most users, as it balances comfort and feedback without being overwhelming. Consequently, while the Chiikawa is streamlined and light, the Red Panda brings a subtle, yet noticeable, tactile quality to the mix.
In summary, the Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Chiikawa offers a bright, lightweight auditory experience with a very light actuation, suitable for those who prefer speed and agility in their typing. The Red Panda, however, combines a mild tactile sensation with a satisfying, thocky sound, making it ideal for users who appreciate a balanced feedback while typing. Choosing between the two will depend on your individual preference for auditory and tactile sensations, but either way, you'll be equipped to achieve distinct typing experiences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a light and responsive typing experience, the Chiikawa switch would be ideal, especially if you enjoy a crisp, high-pitched sound profile that enhances your typing rhythm. This switch is particularly well-suited for fast typists or gamers who benefit from quicker actuation forces, as its lighter weight can lead to less finger fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feel with noticeable feedback upon actuation, the Outemu Red Panda would be the better choice. The mildly tactile characteristics combined with the deeper, thocky sound profile create a satisfying typing experience that many find enjoyable for both typing and gaming. Its medium actuation force strikes a balance between responsiveness and control, making it suitable for a wider range of users, particularly those who appreciate some resistance while typing. Ultimately, assess your typing habits and sound preferences to determine which switch aligns with your needs.
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