Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. HMX Cloud - 63.5g
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between varying actuation forces and sound profiles, each catering to different typing preferences. The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g switch, with its notably light actuation force and bright sound profile, offers a responsive experience that many typists appreciate for its agility and crisp high-pitched feedback. This makes it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a fast-paced typing experience or prefer a switch that delivers quick response times with minimal effort. In contrast, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch provides a clackier sound with a higher actuation force, catering to users who thrive on auditory feedback and a sense of heft in their keystrokes. Its silky smooth feel and creamy auditory signature create an immersive typing experience, perfect for those who relish the tactile sensation of a sturdier switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
56g
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Y3X
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The two switches under discussion, Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and HMX Cloud - 63.5g, incorporate distinct materials in their top housings, leading to differences in acoustic properties and tactile experiences. The Chiikawa features a polycarbonate top housing, which is celebrated for its stiffness and translucence. This results in a sharper, crisper sound profile that enhances sound clarity and resonance, particularly suitable for setups with RGB lighting. In contrast, the HMX Cloud employs a nylon top housing, which imparts a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. The softer nature of nylon tends to absorb more sound, contributing to a more muted and rounded auditory experience when typing. Thus, while both switches offer unique sound characteristics due to their top housing material, one is positioned for brighter sounds while the other leans towards a more mellow presentation.
The similarities between the switches become more apparent when examining their bottom housings. Both the Chiikawa and Cloud models utilize nylon for the bottom housing, leading to a shared acoustic foundation that produces a rich, full sound profile. In this regard, the effect of the bottom housing is significant. Given that the bottom housing influences the overall feel and sound when bottoming out the switch, both models will exhibit a similar auditory quality during key presses. This shared material can foster a uniform tactile feedback, emphasizing the deeper tones that nylon is known to create, making both switches appealing for users seeking a smooth typing experience.
Overall, the integration of different materials for the top and bottom housings of each switch creates a unique juxtaposition in sound qualities. While the Chiikawa's polycarbonate top enhances brightness during key release, the nylon bottom harmonizes the sound for an omnipresent typing experience. Conversely, the HMX Cloud's nylon top offers a more subdued release sound which is complemented by the same nylon bottom that fosters a consistent auditory depth during presses. Despite their differences in top housing, the inherent similarities of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches will deliver comparable auditory results, making either switch a suitable choice depending on the user’s preference for sound sharpness versus fullness.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Chiikawa switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, ideal for extended use in work or gaming. In contrast, the Cloud switch features a heavier actuation force of 56 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, offering a more substantial feel that might appeal to those who enjoy a stronger push while typing. Consequently, the Chiikawa is the lighter option, while the Cloud is the heavier choice. Users seeking a gentler touch and less fatigue may favor the Chiikawa, while those desiring more resistance and feedback during keystrokes might opt for the HMX Cloud.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch, it's evident that there is a notable difference. The Chiikawa switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Cloud switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, which provides a more substantial feel with a deeper press. This slight increase in travel distance of the Cloud switch may appeal to users who prefer a more traditional tactile experience, allowing for a greater sense of depth during keystrokes. Conversely, the shorter travel distance of the Chiikawa switch caters to gamers and users who seek quicker response times and less abrupt key presses. Therefore, if you value responsiveness and quicker actuation, the Bsun Chiikawa is the more suitable choice, whereas the HMX Cloud may better satisfy those who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke and depth in their typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g 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 - 45g for $3.29.
The HMX Cloud - 63.5g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cloud - 63.5g for $2.99.
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
When it comes to sound, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g switch delivers a bright and high-pitched auditory experience that corresponds with its very light actuation force. This crisp sound profile makes every keystroke feel responsive and lively, appealing to those who enjoy a more cheerful typing atmosphere. On the other hand, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch emanates a clacky and sharp sound that can be described as snappy and bright. This heavier variant caters to enthusiasts who prefer a typing experience that is not just functional but also emphasizes a rich sound, highlighting the percussive nature of each keypress. Both switches produce their unique sound profiles well, but the Chiikawa leans towards a more delicate brightness, while the Cloud offers a more robust auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the Chiikawa - 45g switch is likely to be characterized by a lightweight and swift response that elevates its overall typing experience, perfect for users who appreciate a quick and effortless keystroke. Conversely, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch provides a creamy and silky sensation, offering a buttery, smooth typing experience that feels luxurious under the fingers. The heavier actuation force makes each key press feel substantial, allowing enthusiasts to engage more attentively with every stroke. While both switches deliver distinct tactile experiences, the Chiikawa's lightweight feel contrasts with the Cloud's buttery smoothness, appealing to different preferences in typing sensation.
In summary, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g switch is an excellent choice for those who favor a brisk and bright typing experience, while the HMX Cloud - 63.5g switch caters to users seeking a clackier sound and a smoother, more significant feel. Each switch has its own unique auditory and tactile characteristics, making them ideal for different types of users. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound clarity and responsiveness or a silky and satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 63.5g linear switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and requirements. If you lean towards a lighter and more responsive switch with a bright, high-pitched sound that enhances your overall typing experience, then the Chiikawa - 45g is an excellent choice for you. Its medium-light actuation force makes it ideal for extended typing sessions, providing a crisp sound profile that is both engaging and energizing. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel coupled with a clacky sound that brings a robust auditory feedback, the HMX Cloud - 63.5g may be more suitable for your needs. This medium-heavy switch offers a creamy and silky smooth typing experience, making each keystroke feel effortless and satisfying. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches hinges on your desire for weight sensitivity and sound aesthetics in your typing environment.
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