Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often catch the eye are the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow, both of which are linear switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Chiikawa - 45g is renowned for its very light actuation force and bright sound profile, delivering a responsive feel along with a crisp, high-pitched sound that enhances the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow is celebrated as a budget-friendly option that offers a higher-pitched clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, making it an appealing choice for those looking for a joyful and satisfying keystroke. While the Chiikawa excels in providing a lighter touch and sharper auditory feedback, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow stands out for its value and a more dynamic typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
15.4mm long spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a distinctly sharp and higher-pitched sound profile when typing. This shared material choice means that users can expect similar auditory experiences, characterized by a crisper sound that is enhanced rather than muffled. Polycarbonate's inherent properties, such as its stiffness and translucency, contribute to this quality and make it a particularly favorable choice for keyboard enthusiasts who prioritize RGB lighting. With both switches featuring a polycarbonate top housing, users can enjoy an aesthetically pleasing appearance that allows for vibrant lighting effects while also achieving a clear auditory feedback with each keystroke.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches are made of nylon, a classic switch material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. As nylon is a softer plastic compared to polycarbonate, it absorbs more sound, leading to a more subdued and rounded auditory experience when the keys bottom out. This distinction between the top and bottom material's contributions fosters a unique balance; the polycarbonate top amplifies sound clarity, while the nylon bottom dampens and enriches the overall audio character. Consequently, even though the housing materials function differently, the unified approach of polycarbonate and nylon in the Chiikawa - 45g and G Pro 3.0 Yellow creates a cohesive typing experience that appeals to different preferences among users.
Combining these materials effectively means that typing on either switch will yield similar results in terms of sound clarity and depth. The clear, resonant tones from the polycarbonate tops contrast with the muffled, fuller notes emanating from the nylon bottoms, allowing typists to experience a duality of auditory sensations with each press. The interaction between the two materials is essential to how the switch feels and sounds, with polycarbonate giving an immediate and vibrant response above, while the nylon below smoothens the sound profile when bottoming out. Thus, for keyboard enthusiasts seeking a blend of sharpness and warmth in their typing experience, both the Chiikawa - 45g and G Pro 3.0 Yellow provide well-rounded and satisfying options, each showcasing the benefits of their shared and differing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, significant differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Chiikawa switch features an actuation force of 45 grams, which is lighter and more conducive to extended typing sessions, making it ideal for users who prioritize comfort and reduced fatigue. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, resulting in a more substantial feel that some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Regarding bottom out forces, the Chiikawa's bottom out force is 51 grams, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a higher bottom out force of 67 grams. This further emphasizes that the Chiikawa switch is lighter overall, catering to those who enjoy a medium-light touch, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow appeals to those who appreciate the resistance of a medium-heavy switch. In summary, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g is the lighter option, favoring extended typing comfort, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow's heavier forces provide a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The Chiikawa switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered more traditional. This difference in travel distance suggests that the Chiikawa switch may provide a more responsive feel, potentially appealing to gamers who favor quicker key presses for faster actions. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's longer travel distance could be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial depth in their keystrokes, as it offers a more pronounced tactile experience. Ultimately, users seeking similar results in terms of responsiveness should lean towards the Chiikawa switch due to its shorter travel distance.
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 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
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 its bright and high-pitched tone, delivering a crisp and sharp auditory experience with each keystroke. This makes it particularly appealing to those who prefer a lighter, more responsive sound while typing. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow also presents a high-pitched auditory signature, described as clacky and resonant. While both switches share a tendency towards a more elevated sound profile, the Chiikawa's brightness may feel slightly different from the resonant quality of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow. However, factors like board and keycap choice can significantly influence the perception of sound for both switches.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 45g switch is noted for its very light actuation force, making it exceptionally responsive and allowing for a comfortable typing experience. While the specific tactile qualities of the Chiikawa are less detailed, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow is lauded for its polished and creamy feel, which results in a smooth and nearly buttery typing experience. This polished touch minimizes friction, contributing to an effortless pressing sensation. Although the Chiikawa's refined tactile response may not be as explicitly defined, its lightweight nature suggests an overall ease of typing that may align well with the refined qualities found in the G Pro 3.0 Yellow.
In summary, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches cater to users looking for lighter, more responsive linear switches with bright sound profiles. While each switch brings its unique character in sound and feel, similarities exist in their high-pitched auditory outputs and responsive typing experiences. The ultimate choice may come down to personal preference, particularly in the subtleties of sound and tactile feedback, but both switches offer an enjoyable typing experience that many newcomers to mechanical keyboards will appreciate.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, consider your typing style and preferences. If you prefer a lighter touch and a brighter, crisper sound profile, the Chiikawa switch is an excellent choice. Its medium-light actuation and high-pitched feedback make it particularly responsive, perfect for fast typists or those who enjoy a more tactile sensation without the heavier resistance. On the other hand, if you value a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth, polished feel, then the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is likely more suited to your needs. Its creamy texture not only enhances the tactile experience but also provides that satisfying, bouncy feedback that many gamers and typists seek. Additionally, the G Pro switch's budget-friendly excellence offers a great combination of performance and affordability. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you prioritize the lightness and auditory response of the Chiikawa or the solid, buttery experience of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow.
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