Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference, feel, and auditory satisfaction. The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g, a linear switch, is celebrated for its very light actuation force, making it incredibly responsive and perfect for typists who enjoy a quick and nimble typing experience. Its bright sound profile adds a unique auditory dimension, delivering a crisp, high-pitched sound with every keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more robust typing experience with a heavier 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force, appealing to those who prefer a substantial feel as they type. This switch balances a medium-high pitch auditory feedback with the performance benefits of a frosted light diffuser that enhances RGB lighting effects, making it a well-rounded choice for gamers and enthusiasts alike. Each switch has its strengths; while the Chiikawa may cater to those who prioritize speed and a light touch, the G Pro 3.0 Black targets users looking for a more grounded and tactile 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
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Y3X
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches feature distinct top housing materials that shape their sound profiles. The Chiikawa - 45g employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is largely due to polycarbonate's rigidity, allowing it to resonate clearly, particularly when RGB lighting is involved, as its translucency enhances aesthetic appeal. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which also delivers a pointed, high-pitched sound but is characterized as being less sharp and more clacky. While both switches provide a bright auditory experience, the polycarbonate top of the Chiikawa contributes to a more pronounced clarity, whereas the INK blend offers a slightly softer high-frequency articulation.
Moving to the bottom housing materials, the differences become even more pronounced. The Chiikawa - 45g features a nylon bottom housing, a classic choice known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This absorption of sound complements the crispness of the polycarbonate top, resulting in a rounded and versatile auditory experience. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black incorporates a POM bottom housing, which is crafted to create a pleasing and unique sound that is deeper and more muted than nylon. This softer profile allows for a smooth keystroke feel and a subdued bottom-out sound, creating a distinctive combination when paired with the clacky top housing.
In essence, these switches offer varied sound dynamics that hinge on their unique housing materials. While the Chiikawa opts for complementary contrasts—with a crisp top and fuller bottom sound—the G Pro 3.0 strikes a balance between clarity and a muted bottom that still has engaging depth. Should both switches be combined or used under similar conditions, you would encounter a rich diversity in sound dynamics, lending to an engaging typing experience. Thus, even though the top and bottom housings differ, both switches promise delightful auditory experiences rooted in their distinctive material compositions.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, a distinct difference in actuation and bottom out forces is evident. The Chiikawa switch features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black requires a heftier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range. This means that the Chiikawa switch is lighter, making it a preferable option for users who value extended typing sessions without fatigue. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 Black, with its heavier forces, provides a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who enjoy a stronger tactile feedback. As a result, individuals seeking a lighter and more comfortable typing experience should consider the Chiikawa, while those who appreciate a more robust push feel might opt for the G Pro 3.0 Black.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, it is clear that the Chiikawa switch has a shorter travel distance at 3.6 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Black features a longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. The difference in travel distances can significantly influence the typing experience; the shorter Chiikawa switch may appeal to gamers who prioritize quicker response times and more immediate feedback, while the longer G Pro 3.0 Black switch offers a more traditional feel, catering to those who prefer a deeper and more substantial travel. Thus, if you seek a faster and more responsive performance, the Chiikawa switch would be the better choice, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Black is ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke 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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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 stands out with its bright sound profile that produces a high-pitched, crisp auditory experience when typing. This makes it an appealing choice for someone looking for a more lively and responsive keypress. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch is characterized by a clacky, medium-high pitch. This sharper and snappy sound can create a more assertive auditory presence, making it suitable for users who enjoy a pronounced feedback element while typing. Overall, both switches offer distinct sound experiences that cater to different preferences, though external factors like the keyboard and keycaps will also influence the final sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Chiikawa - 45g is not explicitly described, leaving its tactile sensations somewhat open-ended. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black presents a rich combination of creamy and silky sensations, providing a smooth typing experience that allows fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. Its design minimizes resistance, which contributes to a velvety typing feel. Additionally, the subtle resistance of the G Pro 3.0 Black further enhances its comfortable, medium-heavy typing experience. Thus, while the Chiikawa switch’s tactile feedback is unspecified, the G Pro series showcases a refined feel that prioritizes smoothness and ease of typing.
Overall, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switches cater to distinct preferences, especially in sound and feel. The Chiikawa is ideal for those who desire a light and bright auditory experience, while the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a richer and more textured typing experience with its creamy, silky, and subtle touch. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, as each provides enjoyable characteristics that can enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switches should be guided by your typing preferences and the environment in which you plan to use them. If you seek a lightweight, highly responsive switch that delivers a bright, crisp sound, the Chiikawa - 45g is an excellent choice. Its medium-light bottom-out force allows for quick actuation, making it particularly suited for fast typists or gamers who favor speed and agility. Conversely, if you prefer a more substantial typing experience with greater tactile feedback, the G Pro 3.0 Black might be your best bet. With its heavier bottom-out force and a creamy, smooth feel, it offers a more grounded sensation that many find satisfying, especially during long typing sessions. Additionally, its medium-high pitch auditory profile caters well to those who enjoy a bit of acoustic feedback. Ultimately, whether you prioritize a light and snappy feel or a more robust and creamy typing experience will help you determine which switch aligns best with your needs.
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