Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the HC Studio Roselle both offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Chiikawa - 28g, known for its exceptionally light 28g actuation force, stands out with its bright sound profile, making each keystroke feel responsive and delivering a crisp, high-pitched sound that many typists find satisfying. In contrast, the HC Studio Roselle takes smoothness to another level, with its unique material blend offering an ethereally wispy typing experience. Users of the Roselle will appreciate its subtle, low-pitched sound signature, which can create a more muted and refined auditory backdrop while typing. Both switches cater to those seeking a linear experience; however, their sound profiles and tactile sensations differ significantly. Ultimately, the choice between the Chiikawa's bright responsiveness and the Roselle's smooth sophistication comes down to personal preference. 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
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
3.60 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
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
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
When assessing the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the HC Studio Roselle, the key difference lies in the composition of their top housings. The Chiikawa - 28g features a polycarbonate top housing, which is recognized for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. This quality enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced, making it particularly well-suited for RGB lighting applications because of its translucency. In contrast, the Roselle utilizes a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing that results in a deep, muted sound profile. The POM material tends to absorb sound more effectively than polycarbonate, leading to a unique auditory experience that emphasizes a softer tone. Both materials will influence the audible output of the switches, but the Chiikawa's crisper sound will stand in contrast to the Roselle's more subdued notes.
Examining the bottom housings reveals another dimension to the comparison, with both the Chiikawa - 28g and the Roselle using materials that promote deeper sound profiles. The Chiikawa incorporates a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs sound effectively and contributes to a rounder bottom-out feel. On the other hand, the Roselle features a POM bottom housing, which similarly creates a muted and pleasing sound experience; however, the characteristics of POM can lead to subtle distinctions in auditory response compared to nylon. This means that while both switches share a deep sound quality in their bottom housings, the Chiikawa may appear slightly richer, while the Roselle offers a smoother, more refined sound result.
Overall, the differences in housing materials for the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the HC Studio Roselle illustrate the nuanced impact of such compositions on user experience. The distinct characteristics of the polycarbonate and POM top housings create different sound signatures, whereas the nylon and POM bottoms contribute a shared depth to the acoustic profile. As a result, those who experiment with these switches will find that the interaction between the materials can lead to varied outcomes, even within the same deeper sound profile realm. To achieve similar results while using these switches, it would be essential for users to consider not just the switch's top and bottom housings individually, but also how they combine to produce the overall auditory experience, particularly during the key release phase.
Weight
The Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch present distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Chiikawa - 28g has a notably lighter actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom out force of 34 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a softer touch, which can enhance comfort during prolonged typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Roselle switch boasts a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, providing a more substantial push feel for those who enjoy a firmer response while typing. Thus, if you're in search of a lighter option, the Chiikawa - 28g is the clear choice, while the Roselle caters to those who favor a heavier touch in their keystrokes. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces highlight the unique experiences each switch offers, allowing users to select according to their typing preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in terms of how far they travel from the top to the bottom when pressed. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable feel and response from both switches during typing or gaming, ensuring a consistent experience regardless of which switch is used. Since the travel distances are identical, enthusiasts and keyboard builders seeking a specific key feel can achieve similar results with either option.
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 HC Studio Roselle has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Roselle for $4.70.
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 known for its bright sound profile that creates a crisp, high-pitched sound when typing, marking it as a lively option for those who enjoy auditory feedback. In contrast, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch presents a more subtle audio experience with a low-pitched sound signature. This gives the Roselle a deeper, richer auditory profile compared to the Chiikawa, appealing to users who prefer a mellow and less intrusive sound while typing. Ultimately, if one values a higher frequency, energetic sound, the Chiikawa will be more suitable, whereas those seeking a bass-heavy, subdued tone may gravitate toward the Roselle.
When evaluating the feel of these switches, the Chiikawa - 28g is characterized by its very light actuation force, making it notably responsive and easy to press. However, the specific feel characteristics of the Chiikawa were not provided. On the other hand, the Roselle switches offer a frictionless typing experience. This means users experience fluid travel and minimal resistance when pressing the keys, resulting in an effortless and smooth typing feel. The Roselle's mild characteristics create an approachable experience, which strikes a balance that can appeal to a wide range of typists. While the Chiikawa – 28g emphasizes lightness, the Roselle provides a uniquely smooth and frictionless sensation.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and HC Studio Roselle linear switches offer distinctive experiences tailored to different preferences. The Chiikawa excels in providing a bright, high-pitched sound and a very light touch, making it ideal for those who prefer a more lively auditory and tactile experience. Meanwhile, the Roselle features a low-pitched sound profile and an effortlessly smooth feel, appealing to those who favor a deeper sound and a frictionless typing journey. Depending on your sound and feel preferences, you may find either switch meets your needs, but you’ll likely achieve different results depending on which one you choose.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch should depend on your typing preferences and the environment you'll be using your keyboard in. If you’re looking for a switch that provides a super responsive, light touch with a bright, high-pitched sound profile, the Chiikawa - 28g is the way to go. It's especially suitable for fast typists or gamers needing immediate actuation and feedback, and its lighter actuation force of only 28 grams means that extended typing sessions will feel less strenuous on your fingers. On the other hand, if you prefer a more balanced typing experience with a medium-light actuation force of 52 grams, the Roselle switches excel with their exceptionally smooth and frictionless feel, combined with a subtle, low-pitched sound that may be more pleasing in quieter environments. These switches are ideal if you enjoy a gentle typing sensation without the extra noise, making them a solid choice for both office use and casual gaming. In essence, whether you gravitate towards the bright, quick nature of the Chiikawa or the refined, smooth quality of the Roselle will determine which switch enhances your typing experience the most.
Mentioned in this article
