Bsun Chiikawa - 28g vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the KTT Strawberry offer unique features that cater to different typing preferences. The Chiikawa - 28g is renowned for its ultra-light 28g actuation force and bright, high-pitched sound profile, making it exceptionally responsive and perfect for typists who favor a quick, tactile experience. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry captivates users with its low-pitched, silky actuation and polished feel, providing a smooth and comfortable typing experience that many find reliable and enjoyable over long durations. While both switches belong to the linear category, their distinct sound profiles and actuation characteristics can significantly influence your typing experience. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
34g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g and the KTT Strawberry switches, it is essential to note that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This shared characteristic means they produce similar auditory profiles; both are designed to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate enhances resonance, contributing to sound clarity, ideal for users who appreciate the aesthetic appeal of RGB lighting due to the material's translucency. As a result, users can expect a bright and engaging sound when typing, regardless of which model they choose.
However, the bottom housing materials between the two switches differ significantly. The Chiikawa - 28g employs a nylon bottom housing, which lends itself to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer properties allow it to absorb more sound, creating a more muted and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry uses a polycarbonate bottom housing, which aligns with the sonic characteristics of its top housing, ensuring a high-pitched and crisp sound throughout. This fundamental difference influences the overall typing experience, as the bottom-out sounds will feel and resonate differently between the two models, with the Chiikawa providing a more muted auditory impact while the Strawberry retains a bright, consistent sound.
In essence, while the top housings of the Chiikawa - 28g and KTT Strawberry promise similar sound profiles and visual aesthetics, their divergent bottom housing materials introduce a notable contrast to the user experience. The nylon of the Chiikawa results in a rounder sound, making it more suited for a user seeking a softer typing experience, whereas the polycarbonate base of the Strawberry ensures a cohesive sound across both housings, emphasizing clarity and sharpness. Ultimately, the composite nature of the materials means that while users can achieve similar results in terms of top-end sound, the overall character of each switch will reveal its unique strengths during use.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom-out forces. The Chiikawa switch features a lighter actuation force of 28 grams and a bottom-out force of 34 grams, making it suitable for users seeking a minimal resistance experience that can facilitate longer typing sessions and gaming without fatigue. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry switch has a heavier actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom-out force of 62 grams, offering a more substantial feel that some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. This means that the Chiikawa switch is the lighter option, while the Strawberry switch is the heavier one, catering to different user preferences when it comes to force feedback while typing. Ultimately, if you favor lighter switches, the Chiikawa may be your best bet, but if you appreciate the feel of a stiffer switch, then the KTT Strawberry would be more suitable.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Chiikawa - 28g features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Strawberry has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Chiikawa switch the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times and a more responsive feel. In contrast, the Strawberry, with its longer travel distance, is likely to provide a more traditional typing experience that some users prefer for its added depth and a more tactile feedback. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize speed or the sensation of heft in your keystrokes.
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 Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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
The sound profile of the Chiikawa - 28g linear switch is characterized by a bright and crisp tone, which creates a high-pitched auditory feedback that can be quite satisfying for those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic experience while typing. This lively sound is particularly accentuated when paired with boards and keycaps that complement its bright nature. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry linear switch features a low-pitched sound, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone that gives a more subdued auditory feedback during use. This distinction means that while the Chiikawa will likely be more engaging for those who appreciate a pronounced clicky sound, the Strawberry switch provides a quieter and more grounded typing experience, appealing to users seeking a peaceful environment.
When considering the feel of these two switches, the Chiikawa - 28g is known for its very light actuation force, allowing for effortless key presses and responsiveness; however, specific descriptors regarding the overall tactile experience are not provided. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch boasts an exceptionally smooth experience characterized by frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished attributes. Users can expect a seamless typing sensation with minimal resistance, which can significantly enhance comfort during prolonged typing sessions. The effortless travel of the Strawberry is particularly inviting for those who prioritize a smooth and fluid feel, making it an excellent choice for users who seek a premium typing experience.
In summary, both the Chiikawa - 28g and KTT Strawberry linear switches cater to different preferences in terms of auditory and tactile feedback. The Chiikawa is ideal for those who enjoy a bright and responsive sound profile, whereas the Strawberry appeals to users seeking a smooth, low-pitched experience with an emphasis on comfort and fluidity. Ultimately, while both switches can deliver engaging typing experiences, their distinct characteristics will resonate differently depending on individual preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 28g linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch should largely depend on your typing preferences and intended usage. If you favor a very light actuation force and enjoy a bright, high-pitched sound profile, the Chiikawa - 28g would be an excellent choice. It excels in providing quick response times, making it ideal for gaming or fast-paced typing where every keystroke matters. Its sound might be more stimulating, potentially making it a fun option for casual use or for those who appreciate a lively auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel with a medium bottom-out force, the KTT Strawberry offers a smooth and silky typing experience that feels incredibly comfortable during extended typing sessions. Its low-pitched sound provides a mellow auditory backdrop, making it less distracting and more suitable for professional environments or those who type for long periods. Ultimately, your decision should align with your personal typing style, sound preferences, and how you intend to use your keyboard.
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