Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Everglide Rice Pudding
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Everglide Rice Pudding switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, two standout options to consider are the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch. The Chiikawa - 28g is celebrated for its exceptionally light actuation force and bright sound profile, delivering an incredibly responsive typing experience that produces a crisp, high-pitched sound with each keystroke. This makes it an exquisite choice for users who prioritize speed and a lively auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Everglide Rice Pudding switch offers a harmonious balance of smooth operation and a deeper sound, providing a satisfying and precise typing experience. Additionally, its compatibility with Wooting's innovative keyboards positions it as a versatile option for enthusiasts seeking enhanced performance. While both switches cater to distinct preferences—one emphasizing speed and sound, the other favoring smoothness and versatility—understanding their nuanced characteristics can significantly influence your choice. However, let's dive 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
38g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Custom stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Everglide Rice Pudding both feature polycarbonate top housings, which enhance their sound profiles in remarkably similar ways. The use of polycarbonate in both switches leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience, a result of the material's stiffer composition. Since both switches utilize a clear polycarbonate top, they capitalize on translucency, making them particularly effective for RGB lighting applications. This commonality suggests that users of either switch will achieve comparable results regarding brightness and clarity of lighting effects, indicating that both models are competent choices for aesthetic fans who prioritize RGB customization alongside sound quality.
However, the two switches diverge in their bottom housing materials, with the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g incorporating nylon and the same material featured in the Everglide Rice Pudding. The nylon bottom housing contributes significantly to the tactile experience and overall sound profile, allowing for a deeper and fuller sound compared to stiffer alternatives. This means that while both switches will maintain a clear, resonant top-end sound due to the polycarbonate material, the bottom-out sound and feel will be dictated by the softer nature of the nylon in both cases. Consequently, the overall typing experience could vary slightly depending on the bottom housing's characteristics, inviting users to favor one over the other based on their preferences for sound and feel.
In practice, the combined effects of the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom in both switches mean that users can expect a well-rounded auditory feedback that balances crispness with depth. Both models achieve a harmonious integration of these properties, so those switching between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Everglide Rice Pudding will notice similarities in sound and compatibility with RGB lighting. This shared construction philosophy leads to a user experience that maximizes the inherent qualities of each material, resulting in a satisfying typing feel and auditory feedback, regardless of which switch is chosen.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch, a clear distinction in both actuation and bottom out forces emerges. The Chiikawa switch features a lighter actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a softer feel and longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Everglide Rice Pudding switch has a heavier actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, offering a more substantial typing resistance that some users might find preferable for tactile feedback and control. Thus, while both switches provide different typing experiences, the Chiikawa switch is notably lighter compared to the heavier Rice Pudding switch, catering to distinct preferences among users.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch, the Chiikawa boasts a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the longer option, while the Rice Pudding measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This difference of just 0.1 mm highlights a subtle but notable distinction between the two switches. For gamers seeking quicker response times, the slightly shorter travel distance of the Rice Pudding may offer a more immediate feedback experience, while those who prefer a more pronounced key press may find the Chiikawa's slightly longer travel appealing for its depth. Ultimately, the choice between them will depend on personal preference for either rapid activation or a more traditional key feel.
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 Everglide Rice Pudding has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rice Pudding for $6.79.
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 high-pitched sound profile, making it distinctly audible during typing. This quality can create an engaging auditory experience, especially for those who enjoy the feedback from their keyboard. On the other hand, the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch provides a deeper and more balanced sound, offering a satisfying auditory feedback that complements its smooth operation. Both switches produce unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences; however, the specifics of how each performs can vary based on the keyboard used and the keycap materials.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 28g switch delivers a very light actuation force, resulting in a highly responsive typing experience that some may find exhilarating. Its light touch means less effort is required for each keystroke, which can enhance typing speed and reduce finger fatigue during long sessions. Conversely, the Rice Pudding switch combines smooth operation with a more substantial and satisfying tactile experience. This balance allows for precision in typing while still feeling enjoyable under the fingers, making it appealing for those who value both speed and control. Ultimately, the feel of each switch will resonate differently depending on individual preferences.
In conclusion, while the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g switch is known for its bright sound and very light feel, making it highly responsive, the Everglide Rice Pudding switch offers a deeper sound coupled with a smooth and satisfying feel. Both switches cater to different typing experiences: one prioritizes lightness and brightness, while the other emphasizes a balanced and precise approach. Depending on your personal preferences in typing style and auditory feedback, each switch has unique qualities that can enhance your mechanical keyboard setup. Though they differ in sound and feel, those who value the characteristics of each will find that they can create enjoyable and effective typing experiences regardless of the choice they make.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch, it's essential to consider your typing preferences and intended use. If you appreciate a very light actuation force and a bright, high-pitched acoustic profile, the Chiikawa - 28g will likely enhance your typing experience, especially for fast-paced tasks or gaming where rapid responses are crucial. Its lighter weight makes it less fatiguing during extended use, perfect for users who prioritize speed and crisp sound feedback. Conversely, if you value a more balanced typing experience with a slightly heavier actuation force and a satisfying deep sound, the Rice Pudding switches might be more up your alley. Their smooth operation and precision cater to a more deliberate typing style, making them suitable for tasks requiring accuracy, such as programming or writing. Furthermore, their compatibility with innovative keyboards can offer unique performance advantages for enthusiasts. Ultimately, it's about aligning your style and preferences with the characteristics of each switch to find your perfect match.
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