Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro both offer unique experiences for typists and gamers alike, despite belonging to the same linear category. The Chiikawa - 45g is celebrated for its light actuation force and bright sound profile, providing a notably responsive typing experience with a crisp, high-pitched feedback. This makes it an enticing option for those who prioritize speed and a lively auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro caters to budget-conscious users, delivering a satisfying balance of a poppy, clacky sound coupled with smooth actuation and a creamy tactile feel. These switches are designed for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory experience without compromising on performance. Ultimately, both switches have compelling features that cater to different preferences; 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro share remarkable similarities in their housing materials, which significantly influence the overall acoustic characteristics of each switch. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which is known for providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This quality is attributed to polycarbonate's inherent stiffness, which promotes a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate not only allows for an appealing aesthetic in combination with RGB lighting but also enhances the overall acoustic performance. Therefore, users can expect a similar auditory experience when utilizing either switch, as the polycarbonate top housing contributes to the overall sound clarity and resonance in both cases.
In contrast to their similarities in top housing material, the bottom housings of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro also showcase nylon, a classic choice known for its distinct acoustic properties. The nylon material used in both switches creates a deeper, fuller sound profile during typing. This results from nylon's relatively softer nature, which absorbs sound more effectively than stiffer plastics, leading to a rounder and more muted sound. The shared use of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches means that users will enjoy consistent qualities in the feel and sound profile upon bottoming out, providing a cohesive typing experience.
While the Chiikawa - 45g and V3 Cream Yellow Pro exhibit notable similarities in both their top and bottom housing materials, leading to a balanced auditory response, the differentiating factors between the two switches are minimal. Since both switches employ polycarbonate and nylon, the acoustic nuances created will be fundamentally aligned, granting the user similar results in terms of sound profiles and overall performance. However, the unique design and feel of each switch may influence personal preferences among users. Ultimately, those who prioritize a crisp top-end sound and a warm bottom-end response will find both the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro to be excellent choices in their mechanical keyboard setups.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Chiikawa switch features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which provides a more substantial push feel favored by those who enjoy a firmer typing experience. This means that the Chiikawa switch is the lighter option, while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is heavier. If a user seeks similar results in terms of typing feel, they may look to the Chiikawa for a softer touch and the V3 for a bit more resistance, allowing for a personalized approach based on their typing preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, the Chiikawa has a distance of 3.6 mm, while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro measures at 3.3 mm. This makes the Chiikawa switch the longer of the two, offering a more substantial depth that some users might prefer for a more pronounced tactile experience. In contrast, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal more to gamers and those who favor quicker response times due to the reduced travel needed to activate the switch. Thus, users looking for a balance between responsiveness and depth should consider their personal preferences in terms of travel distance when choosing between these switches.
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 Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Yellow Pro for $2.00.
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 linear switch is known for its bright and crisp audio profile, delivering a high-pitched sound that is particularly noticeable while typing. This characteristic makes it a favorite among users who enjoy a more vocal auditory feedback in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch offers a poppy and clacky sound, providing a vibrant auditory experience that further enhances the enjoyment of typing. While both switches contribute unique sounds to the typing experience, the Chiikawa - 45g favors a brighter tone, whereas the V3 Cream Yellow Pro provides a more varied and dynamic auditory feedback, ultimately catering to different sound preferences.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g is recognized for its exceptionally light actuation force, allowing for quick and responsive key presses that reduce finger fatigue during extensive typing sessions. Users appreciate this effortless touch, which translates into a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. Conversely, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is characterized by an easy-to-press mechanism that requires minimal force, making it comfortable and fatigue-free. Additionally, the switch boasts a feathery lightness, bouncy feedback, and a polished feel, contributing to an engaging and lively response with each keypress. Users of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro can experience a delightful combination of snappiness and bounce, which enhances the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switches offer distinct qualities that cater to varying preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. While the Chiikawa switch excels in delivering a bright auditory experience with a super light, responsive feel, the Akko switch combines a poppy sound with a creamy tactile experience that feels easy to press and smooth. Whichever switch you choose, you're likely to appreciate the similarities in how these switches enhance the typing experience, with both offering light actuation forces and contributing to a responsive typing environment.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you prioritize a lightweight and responsive feel, the Chiikawa - 45g is an excellent option, especially for those who enjoy fast-paced typing with minimal finger fatigue. Its bright sound profile and feathery actuation provide an invigorating experience, making it ideal for both gaming and casual typing where tactile feedback is desirable. Conversely, if you seek a slightly heavier switch that still delivers a comfortable typing experience, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a solid choice. With its medium bottom out force and satisfying auditory feedback, this switch is well-suited for prolonged use, lending a 'poppy' sound that can enhance your enjoyment during both typing and gaming sessions. Overall, consider the Chiikawa for an ultra-responsive, light touch and the Cream Yellow Pro for a balanced feel with a bit more resistance and character in sound.
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