Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and Gateron Smoothie present intriguing options for enthusiasts looking for a linear experience. The Chiikawa - 28g is distinguished by its very light actuation force and bright sound profile, delivering a responsive typing experience accompanied by a crisp, high-pitched sound that many typists find exhilarating. This switch is ideal for those who prefer a lightweight touch and enjoy the auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie offers a more subdued yet satisfying experience, with its thocky sound signature and incredibly smooth operation. Made with all-POM materials, it provides a low-pitched and creamy feel that appeals to users who appreciate a softer typing sound and luxurious smoothness. Both switches have their merits, appealing to different preferences in sound and feedback; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
28g
Actuation force
40g
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
3.60 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
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and Gateron Smoothie switches, the differences in sound profiles and material characteristics become apparent. The Chiikawa - 28g utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and clear acoustic properties. This design results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that resonates well, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate the nuances of sound in their keystrokes. Furthermore, the translucency of the polycarbonate allows RGB lighting to shine through effectively, enhancing the visual appeal of a keyboard setup. In contrast, the Smoothie features a top housing made from POM, which imparts a deeper and more muted sound. POM generally offers a unique tactile experience and sound profile that is distinct from polycarbonate, leading to a significant contrast in the auditory feedback each switch offers upon actuation.
The bottom housing of the switches adds another layer to their comparison. The Chiikawa - 28g is equipped with a nylon bottom housing, renowned for its ability to absorb sound and produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. Because nylon is a softer material, it contributes to a rounder sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. Conversely, the Gateron Smoothie also employs a POM bottom housing, which shares some qualities with nylon, particularly in producing a muted sound profile. However, despite both switches having unique sound signatures, the Gateron Smoothie's use of POM across both housing sections leads it to project a sound that may not mimic the fuller acoustics produced by the nylon bottom of the Chiikawa - 28g.
Ultimately, the combination of different materials in each switch dictates the overall typing experience. In the Chiikawa - 28g, the polycarbonate top accentuates the keystroke's higher tones, while the nylon bottom provides a more grounded feeling. This division leads to a more complex sound experience that enhances both typing and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie, with its POM top and bottom, creates a more uniform and muted sound profile, appealing to typists who prefer a consistent auditory response devoid of peaks in sound. Both switches, while distinct in their material compositions, are engineered to deliver satisfying experiences—one through pronounced clarity and the other through a harmonious, softer resonance.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, notable differences arise in their actuation forces. The Chiikawa switch exhibits a lighter actuation force of 28 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer ease of typing for extended periods, such as during long workdays or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Smoothie offers a heavier actuation force of 40 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial tactile experience while typing. The bottom out force of the Chiikawa is measured at 34 grams, providing a clear endpoint to the keystroke, while the bottom out force for the Smoothie remains unknown. This means that while the Chiikawa has a defined end resistance, the Smoothie's complete bottom-out experience cannot be assessed at this time. Ultimately, if users favor a lighter switch, the Chiikawa - 28g would be the better choice, whereas those seeking a heavier, more tactile push should consider the Gateron Smoothie.
Travel distance
Both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch have identical travel distances, with each switch measuring 3.6 mm from top to bottom. This similarity means that users will experience a comparable actuation feel when pressing down on keys outfitted with either switch. Because the travel distances are the same, you can expect a consistent experience in key response and overall typing performance, regardless of which switch is used. Thus, if you're seeking similar results in your keyboard setup, opting for either switch will yield no significant difference in travel distance.
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 Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 produces a bright, crisp, and high-pitched sound profile, contributing to a very light and responsive typing experience. This makes it suitable for users who enjoy auditory feedback that feels sharp and immediate. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is characterized by a thocky sound signature, which offers a deep, rich, and satisfying tone when a key is pressed. This low-pitched sound provides a more bass-heavy auditory experience, resulting in a softer, more subdued effect during typing. While both switches have distinct sound profiles, the Chiikawa leans toward a sharper sound, whereas the Smoothie contributes a deeper, more muted quality.
Regarding feel, the Chiikawa - 28g switch is recognized for its very light actuation force, making it extremely responsive and easy to type on. However, the specifics of its tactile feedback are less defined. Conversely, the Smoothie offers an extraordinary typing experience characterized by buttery, creamy, and silky sensations. This smoothness is attributed to its all-POM design, which minimizes resistance during keystrokes and provides a seamless transition from key press to release. Users can expect a luxurious typing experience with the Smoothie, which contrasts with the Chiikawa's more utilitarian feel.
In summary, the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch delivers a bright sound and a very light touch, appealing to those who prefer a lively auditory experience. In comparison, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch impresses with its thocky sound profile and exceptional smoothness, creating a rich and decadent typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences, allowing you to choose based on whether you prioritize sound clarity or tactile luxury. For users who enjoy varied auditory and tactile experiences, either option presents an opportunity to find satisfaction in the unique characteristics each switch offers.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch ultimately boils down to your personal preferences in both feel and sound. If you favor a very light actuation force and enjoy a bright, crisp sound profile during your typing sessions, the Chiikawa - 28g may be the ideal choice for you. Its responsive nature makes it excellent for fast typing, allowing for quick and nimble keystrokes. However, if you prefer a more muted, thocky sound and prioritize a smooth, creamy feel when typing, the Gateron Smoothie would likely suit you better. Its buttery texture and low-pitched sound provide an altogether different acoustic experience, appealing particularly to those who appreciate a deeper, more subdued typing sound. Ultimately, whether you lean towards the zestiness of Chiikawa or the richness of the Smoothie, both switches offer unique advantages that cater to different typing styles. Therefore, consider not just how you type but also how you want your keyboard experience to feel and sound, as this will guide you toward the switch that best aligns with your needs.
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