Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Dareu Dream
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Dareu Dream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switches, two notable contenders are the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Dareu Dream, both of which are linear switches. The Chiikawa - 45g is celebrated for its light actuation force and bright sound profile, offering a responsive feel and a crisp, high-pitched sound that many typists find enjoyable. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream switches combine a very light touch with an attractive price point, making them a compelling choice for enthusiasts who prioritize both quality and affordability. While the Chiikawa caters to those who appreciate a distinctive auditory experience, the Dareu Dream appeals to budget-conscious users seeking reliable performance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Dareu Dream both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in similar acoustic characteristics. Polycarbonate's inherent stiffness contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the switches. This shared choice of material not only emphasizes the audible feedback during key presses but also allows both switches to shine aesthetically, especially when RGB lighting is employed. The translucency of polycarbonate effectively showcases the lighting effects, making both options visually appealing for gamers and typists alike.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both switches features nylon, a classic material known for its unique sound properties. The softness of nylon allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile, setting up a noticeable difference in the auditory experience when bottoming out the key. While the polycarbonate top housing dictates the sound during key release, the nylon bottom casing greatly influences the typing experience and the final sound produced when the key is pressed down. As a result, when typing on either switch, users will experience the distinct blend of the high-pitched clarity from the top housing combined with the rounded depth provided by the nylon bottom.
Ultimately, while the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Dareu Dream share similarities in their use of polycarbonate and nylon, the interaction between their respective housings creates a nuanced typing experience. Since both switches utilize the same materials for their top and bottom housings, users can expect similar results in terms of overall sound profile and aesthetics, despite potential differences in design or configuration. Consequently, both switches cater to users looking for a blend of visual flair and a satisfying auditory experience, making them competitive choices in the mechanical switch market.
Weight
When comparing the actuation forces of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, we see that the Chiikawa requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Dream's 40 grams, making the Chiikawa the heavier option. The bottom out force for the Chiikawa is rated at 51 grams, indicating a distinct resistance when the key is fully pressed down. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Dream is unknown; therefore, we can't effectively compare it in this regard. Both switches cater to different preferences in typing experience: the lighter 40-gram actuation force of the Dream may appeal to users looking for a quicker and less fatiguing typing experience, while the Chiikawa's medium-light feel offers a bit more substance for those who appreciate a heavier push. The disparity in actuation force suggests that users will experience a different response when typing or gaming, potentially affecting their overall comfort during extended use.
Travel distance
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch offers a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Dream linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Chiikawa the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that aligns with the preferences of many gamers seeking faster response times. In contrast, the Dream's 4 mm travel distance offers a more substantial depth, appealing to those who enjoy a fuller typing experience. If you're looking for a switch with a quick actuation, the Chiikawa might be the better choice, while the Dream could be ideal for users who prefer a more pronounced keypress. Thus, depending on your preference for responsiveness versus depth, you can choose between these two switches based on their distinct travel distances.
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 Dareu Dream has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dream for $3.76.
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 Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch is characterized by a crisp, high-pitched quality, contributing to a bright auditory experience when typing. This makes it distinctly responsive, appealing to users who favor a more lively sound while typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream linear switches produce a clacky sound; their sharp and snappy audio adds a punchy aspect to the typing experience, described as crisp and percussive. While both switches offer unique auditory characteristics, the choice between them may ultimately depend on personal preference regarding brightness versus clackiness, and sound quality can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard's build and keycap material.
When considering the feel of these switches, the Chiikawa - 45g is recognized for its very light actuation force, allowing for effortless key presses that enhance the overall typing experience. Users can expect a similar level of ease with the Dareu Dream switches, which are designed to require minimal force while offering gentle resistance during activation. This results in a typing feel that is not only comfortable but reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the Dream switches are described as providing a mild typing experience, making them a safe choice for a wide range of users looking for approachable and pleasant switch characteristics.
In summary, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and Dareu Dream linear switches cater to those seeking a light and responsive typing experience, albeit with different sound profiles—one leaning towards brightness and the other towards a clackier tone. In terms of feel, both switches excel at providing comfort and ease of use, thanks to their low actuation forces. Therefore, regardless of the specific switch chosen, users can anticipate a satisfying performance that aligns with the properties of light, linear switches. Ultimately, personal preference concerning sound and individual tactile experiences will guide enthusiasts in selecting the switch that best suits their typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Dareu Dream linear switches, it really comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you appreciate a lighter actuation force that delivers a bright sound profile, the Chiikawa - 45g's medium-light feel and crisp, high-pitched sound can enhance your typing experience, especially if you enjoy the tactile feedback of a responsive switch. This option is particularly suited for those who prioritize performance and sound in their keyboard setup, making it a great choice for gaming or fast-paced typing. On the other hand, if you are looking for an easily accessible and economical switch, the Dareu Dream linear switch offers a very light actuation force, promoting effortless key presses that can significantly reduce finger fatigue during prolonged use. Its clacky sound adds a fun acoustic element, while its affordability makes it an attractive option for newcomers who don't want to compromise on quality. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you value the specific sound and feel of the Chiikawa or the overall ease and budget-friendliness of the Dream.
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