Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Jerrzi Salt Ice are two enticing options, both featuring linear designs that cater to those who prefer a smooth keystroke experience. The Chiikawa - 28g is celebrated for its remarkably light actuation force, making it incredibly responsive and ideal for users who desire a nimble touch while typing. Its bright sound profile emits a crisp, high-pitched noise, adding a unique auditory element to the typist's experience. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches are characterized by their vibrant feedback and clacky sound, delivering an energetic typing experience with equally light actuation. This lively combination appeals to those who thrive on dynamic tactile sensations. While both switches offer light touch and bright acoustics, their distinct sound profiles and responsiveness may cater to different user preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
28g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches exhibit both similarities and differences that significantly influence their overall sound profiles and user experience. Both the Chiikawa - 28g and the Jerrzi Salt Ice feature a polycarbonate top housing, which imparts a sharper, more resonant sound profile due to its stiff nature. This shared characteristic allows both switches to deliver a higher-pitched and crisper auditory experience, enhancing the clarity of sound when a user releases a key. Furthermore, the translucency of the polycarbonate material makes both switches well-suited for RGB lighting applications, allowing vibrant illumination that contributes to an engaging aesthetic.
The differences in the bottom housing materials between the Chiikawa - 28g and the Salt Ice are notable. The Chiikawa - 28g utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper, fuller sound due to nylon's inherently softer characteristics that absorb more sound. In contrast, the Salt Ice employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, resulting in a more consistent sound profile akin to its top housing. This divergence in materials leads to distinct sound experiences; while the Chiikawa provides a warmer typing feedback that enhances the overall tactile experience, the Salt Ice's uniformity may appeal to users seeking a sharper and more defined sound across both elements of the switch.
In combining these materials, each switch demonstrates how the unique properties of their respective bottom and top housings impact the overall auditory and tactile experience. For instance, the Chiikawa - 28g will elicit a softer bottom-out sound due to the nylon's sound-absorbing qualities, while maintaining a clear release sound from the polycarbonate top. Conversely, the Jerrzi Salt Ice's dual polycarbonate housings yield a tighter sound profile throughout, resulting in a consistent click with each keystroke. Despite these differences, both switches can achieve complementary results in terms of sharpness and fullness, allowing users to select based on their preferred sound texture—whether they lean towards the robust warmth of nylon or the crisp clarity of polycarbonate.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force. The Chiikawa switch has a lighter actuation force of 28 grams, which makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions with less strain. In contrast, the Salt Ice switch features a significantly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, appealing to users who favor a more substantial typing experience. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Chiikawa has a bottom out force of 34 grams, whereas the bottom out force for the Salt Ice is currently unknown. This means that while both switches offer distinct experiences based on their actuation forces, the Chiikawa remains the lighter option, and the Salt Ice is decidedly heavier. Ultimately, these differences cater to varying preferences in tactile feedback and user comfort.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Chiikawa switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Salt Ice switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that for users seeking quicker response times, the Salt Ice may be more appealing due to its shorter travel distance, which aligns with the growing trend favoring shorter distances in gaming and rapid typing scenarios. On the other hand, the Chiikawa's 3.6 mm distance may offer a more substantial feedback experience for those who appreciate a deeper press. Ultimately, if you prefer a quicker activation, the Salt Ice is the better choice, while the Chiikawa will cater to those who prefer a more traditional and tactile 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 Jerrzi Salt Ice has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Salt Ice for $2.30.
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, producing a crisp, high-pitched tone when typing. This makes it an engaging option for users who appreciate an audible feedback that adds to the overall typing experience. Similarly, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch offers an exceptionally bright and clacky sound, which also adds vibrancy to each keystroke. Both switches provide a lively auditory sensation, ensuring that users will experience a responsive and energetic atmosphere while typing. However, it's important to note that the overall sound experience can vary depending on the keyboard build and keycap materials used.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 28g is known for its very light actuation force, making it remarkably responsive and conducive to quick typing. Users often find this switch to be effortless to press, allowing for a fast-paced typing experience without straining fingers. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch also shines with its light touch, delivering a similarly effortless actuation that promotes an energetic typing style. Both switches excel in providing a light and smooth feel, catering well to users who prefer a low-resistance typing action.
In summary, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. They each present bright auditory feedback and a light actuation force, making them appealing options for those seeking a responsive and lively typing experience. Ultimately, your choice may come down to personal preference in sound character or brand loyalty, but either switch promises satisfaction with their efficient design and engaging characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, if you're deciding between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, your choice should reflect your personal typing preferences and intended usage. The Chiikawa - 28g, with its bright sound profile and very light actuation force, is ideal for those who prioritize speed and responsiveness in their typing experience. If you often type for long periods or play games that require quick reactions, this switch's crisp, high-pitched sound and lightweight feel can enhance your overall experience, minimizing fatigue. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches, characterized by their vibrant feedback and clacky acoustics, are perfect for users who enjoy an energetic, engaging typing sensation. If you want a switch that delivers impactful auditory feedback and keeps your typing dynamic, the Salt Ice is the way to go. Ultimately, your choice hinges on whether you value the Chiikawa's responsiveness and light actuation for speed or the Salt Ice's lively feedback for a more interactive experience.
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