Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 White
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often lies between nuanced performance characteristics and personal typing preferences. The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g switch stands out for its notably light actuation force and bright sound profile, delivering a responsive typing experience. This switch is particularly appealing for those who enjoy a crisp, high-pitched acoustic feedback while typing, making it a great option for fast typists or gamers who thrive on speed. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White offers an even lighter actuation force of only 38g, catering specifically to the delicate typist who desires effortless keystrokes. Its frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting, while the medium-high pitch produces satisfying auditory feedback that strikes a balance between performance and affordability. While both switches boast linear characteristics and cater to lightweight typing, their auditory profiles and response tendencies present unique advantages depending on user preference. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switches, it is noteworthy that both switches utilize the same materials for their top housings. Both switches are equipped with polycarbonate tops, which significantly influence their acoustic characteristics. Specifically, the polycarbonate construction results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, attributed to the material's stiffness that enhances the clarity and resonance. This similarity implies that users can expect similar auditory experiences when using either switch, particularly in scenarios involving RGB lighting, as the translucency of the polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic effects of backlighting.
However, the bottom housings of the two switches diverge with both utilizing nylon but contributing differently to sound quality. The Chiikawa - 45g has a nylon bottom housing that, by virtue of its softer material, produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 White offers the same nylon bottom housing material, meaning both switches will similarly absorb sound and deliver a rounder auditory experience when typing. The impact of the nylon material effectively mediates the overall acoustic qualities of each switch, highlighting how the bottom housing plays a significant role in defining the bottom-out sound and feel.
Ultimately, the distinct combinations of housing materials in the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switches create a nuanced typing experience while simultaneously sharing a core sound profile due to their matching top housings. Users can anticipate a consistent auditory crispness from the polycarbonate tops while enjoying the rich depth provided by the nylon bottoms. This harmonious interplay ensures that the switches exhibit both familiar sound characteristics and unique responses, emphasizing the intricate balance between material properties that determine the overall feel and sound while typing.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Chiikawa switch has 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 White features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it distinctly lighter overall. This difference in actuation force means that users of the G Pro 3.0 White may find it easier to achieve keystrokes with less effort, which can benefit those who type extensively or engage in prolonged gaming sessions. However, the Chiikawa switch requires slightly more force, catering to those who prefer a firmer push for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, if users desire a lighter touch, the G Pro 3.0 White is the better option, while the Chiikawa is suited for individuals who appreciate a heavier switch feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, there is a notable difference: the Chiikawa switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 White measures 4 mm. This means that the Chiikawa switch offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times and a more responsive feel. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 White, with its longer 4 mm travel distance, provides a deeper keystroke that some users might find more comfortable and satisfying. While both switches cater to different preferences—shorter distances for quick reflexes and longer distances for a more substantial typing experience—the choice ultimately depends on individual taste in keyboard feel and responsiveness.
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 White has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 White for $3.27.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, the former is recognized for its bright and high-pitched acoustic characteristics. This lively tone makes it distinctly responsive, which many typists enjoy for a feedback-driven experience. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 White presents a slightly more complex auditory palette. It can be described as having a clacky sound, which contributes a sharp and snappy auditory feedback when pressed. The medium-high pitch also offers a satisfying tactile response, albeit less bright than that of the Chiikawa. Thus, if you prefer a clearer and more resonant typing sound, the Chiikawa may be your go-to, while the G Pro 3.0 offers a nice balance suitable for a wider range of typing environments.
In terms of feel, the Chiikawa - 45g is notably recognized for its light actuation force, offering a very responsive typing experience. However, the specifics of its tactile sensation are not detailed. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 White is characterized by its creamy and silky smoothness, creating a buttery typing feel that enhances the overall tactile experience. It features an easy-to-press design, which ensures that minimal effort is required for each keystroke, making it greatly appealing for users during prolonged typing sessions. The subtle resistance of the G Pro 3.0 also makes it accessible for a wide range of typists, enhancing comfort and reducing finger fatigue. Therefore, while both switches emphasize a light feel, the G Pro 3.0 edges out in providing a smoother and more refined typing experience.
In summary, while both the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switches cater to typists who appreciate light actuation forces, they diverge in terms of sound and feel. The Chiikawa offers a bright auditory signature, ideal for those who enjoy a more responsive sound. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 balances a clacky, satisfying sound with a creamy, smooth feel that enhances the overall typing experience. Each switch provides unique characteristics that may appeal to different individuals, so your choice will ultimately depend on personal preference for both auditory feedback and tactile sensation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, your choice ultimately hinges on your personal typing style and environment. If you prefer a switch that offers a tactile auditory experience, the Chiikawa - 45g is an excellent option. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 51g provides a responsive feel, combined with a high-pitched, crisp sound that makes every keystroke more pronounced. This switch is particularly appealing if you enjoy a lively typing experience and don’t mind a bit of volume, making it suitable for enthusiasts and those who appreciate auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you're looking for an ultra-light and effortless typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 White is your go-to choice. With a mere 45g bottom-out force and a creamy, silky feel, this switch is designed for comfort and ease, perfect for lengthy typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. Its subdued yet satisfying auditory feedback makes it a good fit for quieter environments, such as office settings or shared spaces. Therefore, consider your typing habits and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard to make the most informed choice between these two flavorful switches.
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