Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. HMX FJ400
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the HMX FJ400 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the HMX FJ400 stand out as compelling options for enthusiasts seeking a linear typing experience. The Chiikawa - 45g is celebrated for its extremely light actuation force and a bright sound profile, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize responsiveness and enjoy a crisp, high-pitched auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the HMX FJ400 presents itself as a balanced option within the HMX Film switch lineup, offering a well-rounded sound profile that caters to users looking for a more muted acoustic experience while still retaining the smoothness characteristic of linear switches. While the Chiikawa - 45g excels in a vibrant auditory and tactile experience, the FJ400 may appeal to users who prefer a subtler sound without sacrificing performance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Y3X
Stem material
T2
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
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-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the HMX FJ400, notable distinctions can be observed, particularly in the choice of materials for the top housing. The Chiikawa - 45g utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, a material known for its rigidity and translucence, which enhances sound clarity and allows RGB lighting to shine through effectively. The crispness and sharpness of the sound profile provided by polycarbonate contribute to a lively typing experience. In contrast, the HMX FJ400 employs POM for its top housing. While POM also serves as a durable material, it produces a deeper and more muted sound profile, diverging from the striking resonance of polycarbonate. This key difference indicates that users seeking a vibrant auditory feedback will likely prefer the Chiikawa - 45g, while those who enjoy a smoother, more subdued typing sound might gravitate towards the FJ400.
Despite their differing top housing materials, both switches share nylon as the bottom housing material, which introduces a layer of commonality in sound characteristics. Nylon is revered in the mechanical keyboard community for its ability to absorb vibrations and produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. Both the Chiikawa - 45g and FJ400 benefit from this feature, allowing for a rounder sound that characterizes the tactile experience during typing. Given that the bottom housing has a significant influence on the feel and acoustics upon bottoming out, both switches deliver that familiar warmth and depth, ensuring a consistent tactile feedback that users can appreciate across both models.
In essence, the contrasting top housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and HMX FJ400 lead to distinctly different sound experiences, yet their shared nylon bottom housing provides a foundational commonality. This combination allows users of either switch to experience a unique sound profile: the Chiikawa - 45g’s higher-pitched clarity paired with the FJ400’s deeper tone. While those who prioritize an articulated sound might lean towards polycarbonate, the choice of nylon for both bottom housings ensures that a rich typing experience remains consistent, resulting in satisfying auditory feedback no matter which switch is being used. Thus, when it comes to overall performance, users can expect compelling results, even if the individual sound signatures differ due to their unique top housings.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Chiikawa features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the FJ400 has a stronger actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, placing it in the medium range. As such, users who prefer lighter key presses for extended typing sessions or gaming may find the Chiikawa more suitable, while those who favor a heftier feel may opt for the FJ400. Overall, the Chiikawa is the lighter switch, while the FJ400 is heavier, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who appreciate added resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Chiikawa switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it slightly shorter than the FJ400, which has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that those who favor responsiveness and quicker actuation, such as gamers, may find the Chiikawa switch more appealing, as it allows for faster keystrokes. Conversely, the FJ400's longer travel distance may provide a more pronounced and satisfying tactile feedback, ideal for users who prefer a deeper keystroke experience. Overall, while both switches cater to different preferences, the Chiikawa - 45g is the shorter option, and the FJ400 is the longer one.
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 FJ400 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the FJ400 for $3.29.
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 - 45g switch delivers a bright sound profile characterized by a crisp and high-pitched tone that enhances the typing experience with its pronounced auditory feedback. This makes it particularly enjoyable for those who appreciate the acoustic feedback that can come from a lighter switch. On the other hand, the HMX FJ400 has a balanced sound profile, placing it in a middle ground that may appeal to typists seeking a less pronounced auditory signature while still providing a satisfying response. The sound of both switches can vary significantly depending on the keyboard build, the materials used for the board, and the choice of keycaps, but you can generally expect the Chiikawa to be more vibrant and ringing compared to the more subdued FJ400.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 45g is known for its very light actuation force, offering a quick and responsive typing experience that can make it easy to type rapidly without much effort. This feedback often feels more effortless, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer lighter switches. Conversely, the FJ400 is characterized by a more balanced feel within the HMX Film switch lineup, which means it may offer a slightly heavier resistance compared to the Chiikawa, while still maintaining a smooth actuation. This balance can appeal to users looking for a compromise between speed and tactile feedback, providing a comfortable yet efficient experience.
In conclusion, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g switch is ideal for those who prefer a bright, high-pitched sound and a very light feel, making it optimal for fast typing. In contrast, the HMX FJ400 offers a balanced sound experience and feel, which may appeal to users desiring an all-around switch without extreme characteristics. Depending on personal preference, typists can enjoy different experiences with each switch, though factors like keyboard and keycap choice will ultimately influence the outcome.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the HMX FJ400 linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a bright, crisp sound profile that makes for a highly responsive typing experience, the Chiikawa - 45g is your go-to option. This switch's medium-light bottom-out force of 51 grams allows for rapid keystrokes, making it ideal if you're looking for a speedy typing experience, especially when gaming or for intensive typing sessions. On the other hand, if you favor a more balanced sound and feel, the FJ400's slightly heavier bottom-out force of 58 grams provides a sturdier typing sensation that some users may find more satisfying, especially for prolonged typing tasks. Its versatile characteristics make it a solid choice for those who are looking for an all-around switch that can handle both gaming and typing without any fuss. Ultimately, the right switch for you will depend on whether you prioritize a vibrant, lightweight feel or a balanced, firm typing experience.
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