Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the KTT Rose offer distinct experiences suited to different preferences. The Chiikawa - 28g is celebrated for its exceptionally light actuation force and bright sound profile, making it an enticing choice for those who value quick responsiveness and a high-pitched auditory feedback while typing. This switch is perfect for users who prefer a less tactile, yet highly reactive keystroke, allowing for swift keystrokes during gaming or fast-paced typing. Conversely, the KTT Rose stands out with its progressive springs, delivering a more substantial typing experience characterized by a unique low-pitched sound reminiscent of soft raindrops. This switch caters to those who appreciate a balance of weight and feedback, merging a gentle tactile sensation with a soothing auditory experience. While both are linear switches, they cater to different auditory preferences, typing sensations, and performance needs. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
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
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the KTT Rose showcase similar housing materials, specifically polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, which ultimately leads to comparable sound profiles despite their differences. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their upper sections, which is recognized for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate amplifies sound clarity and resonance, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a bright auditory experience from their keyboard. Additionally, its translucency enhances the visual effects of RGB lighting, further contributing to an aesthetically pleasing interface in both switches.
Turning to the bottom housing, both the Chiikawa - 28g and the KTT Rose employ nylon, a material known for its classic application in switch design. The velvety softness of nylon absorbs sound and results in a deeper and fuller audio experience. This softer plastic dampens noise more effectively than harder materials, providing a more muted and rounded sound profile that contrasts with the clear, crisp notes of the polycarbonate top. As a result, the collective experience of typing on these switches strikes a harmonious balance—sharpened by the clear polycarbonate tops while softened by the comforting depths of the nylon bottoms.
When considering the mechanics of both switches in action, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon creates a multifaceted sound profile during use. The Chiikawa - 28g and KTT Rose yield similar results as the properties of the individual materials combine seamlessly. While the nylon bottom contributes significantly to the bottom-out sound and feel, the polycarbonate top influences the release sound when keys are lifted. This synergy ensures that both switches offer a rich auditory experience while also providing varied tactile feedback, illuminating the significance of material choice in keyboard design. Ultimately, users can anticipate a similarly pleasant typing experience from both switches, thanks to their parallel housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to distinct user preferences. The Chiikawa - 28g features an actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it a lighter option that may be more suitable for extended typing sessions or casual gaming. In contrast, the KTT Rose switch does not specify its actuation force but has a significantly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This means that while the Chiikawa switch provides a softer touch that some users may find more comfortable for long durations, the KTT Rose switch demands a stronger push, appealing to those who prefer a more tactile and substantial typing experience. Therefore, the Chiikawa - 28g is the lighter switch, while the KTT Rose is the heavier option, offering distinctly different feels for users based on their typing or gaming preferences.
Travel distance
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the Chiikawa having a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Rose has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Chiikawa the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times for faster key presses. On the other hand, the longer 4 mm travel distance of the Rose may provide a more pronounced and deeper feel that some users prefer for a hearty typing experience. Therefore, if you favor a more responsive switch, the Chiikawa may be the better choice, whereas those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses might find the KTT Rose more satisfying.
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 Rose comes in at $3.01 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 presents a bright and crisp audio profile, marked by a high-pitched tone that makes each keystroke feel responsive and lively. Typists who appreciate a more vibrant auditory feedback will find the Chiikawa particularly appealing. On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switch emits a more subdued sound characterized by low-pitched, bassy notes akin to raindrops, offering a mellow and sophisticated auditory experience. This sound profile suggests a more relaxed typing atmosphere, making the Rose switches suitable for environments where quieter operation may be preferred.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 28g switch is recognized for its very light actuation force, resulting in a highly responsive and less burdensome typing experience. This can be attractive for users who prefer a quick and nimble touch, allowing for rapid input with minimal effort. Conversely, the KTT Rose switch features a mild and polished feel, providing a gentle typing experience that is comfortable for most users. The polished nature of the Rose also implies that the key travel is smooth and refined, minimizing friction during use. While the Chiikawa is all about lightness and responsiveness, the Rose caters to those who appreciate a balanced and smooth tactile experience.
Overall, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and KTT Rose linear switches present their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Chiikawa switch offers a bright sound and ultra-light actuation, perfect for those who appreciate pronounced feedback and responsiveness. In contrast, the KTT Rose combines a mellow, low-pitched sound with a mild and polished feel, appealing to users looking for a comfortable and smooth typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between them will come down to whether you prefer the quick and bright feedback of the Chiikawa or the balanced and smooth nature of the Rose.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch should be guided by your typing preferences and intended usage. If you favor a light, quick response with a bright, high-pitched sound that enhances the tactile experience of typing, then the Chiikawa - 28g is an excellent choice. Its low actuation force makes it particularly suited for fast typists or gamers who value rapid key presses without the need for much effort. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel with a medium-heavy resistance that strikes a balance between tactile feedback and comfort, the KTT Rose is likely to be your switch of choice. Its low-pitched, bassy sound profile and polished touch provide a refined typing experience that suits both casual and professional environments. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritizing lightweight, fast typing or a more grounded feel with an elegant sound.
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