Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. KTT Glimp
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the KTT Glimp switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the KTT Glimp both present unique attributes that could cater to different typing preferences. The Chiikawa - 45g is known for its exceptionally light actuation force and bright sound profile, allowing for a highly responsive and crisp typing experience, perfect for users who value speed and efficiency. In contrast, the KTT Glimp combines a medium-light actuation force with tactile feedback, offering a well-balanced typing experience that provides satisfying resistance without being overly taxing on the fingers. The Glimp's clacky sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory element, appealing to those who appreciate a symphony of keystrokes. While the Chiikawa targets typists looking for a quick, light touch, the Glimp caters to those seeking a more substantial feel with pleasing acoustics. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the KTT Glimp share a remarkably similar construction when it comes to their housing materials, employing polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in the top section, which contributes to a brighter and more resonant sound profile. This stiffer plastic allows for sharper and higher-pitched sounds, making it an ideal choice for those seeking clarity in their typing experience. The translucent nature of the polycarbonate also enhances the aesthetic aspect of these switches, especially if RGB lighting is a factor—both switches are designed to maximize the luminous effects of lighting through their clear tops.
On the other hand, while the top housings of both the Chiikawa - 45g and the KTT Glimp deliver a similar sound profile, their bottom housings differ in the qualities they impart on the overall typing experience. With both models using nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect a deeper, fuller sound profile due to nylon’s softer characteristics. This material absorbs more sound than stiffer options, resulting in a rounder sound when the switch bottoms out. As a result, the combination of a polycarbonate top with a nylon bottom in both models means that typists will enjoy a balanced auditory experience—sharp and crisp when pressing down with a rounded finish when releasing.
Ultimately, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the KTT Glimp showcase the advantages of their shared housing materials, with polycarbonate and nylon complementing each other to create distinct yet harmonious sound profiles. The polycarbonate top enhances clarity and brightness, while the nylon bottom provides a richer, fuller sound. Whether users choose one model over the other, they can expect similar results in terms of feel and sound quality, thanks to the consistent use of these materials. The sound experience from these switches will effectively blend the characteristics of both housing types, delivering an engaging and satisfying typing experience regardless of the choice made.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch, both exhibit a medium-light feel with slight differences in their force specifications. The Chiikawa features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams, while the Glimp has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. This means that the Chiikawa requires a bit more force to initiate a keystroke compared to the Glimp, making the Glimp a marginally lighter option overall. However, both switches have relatively close characteristics, which will likely yield similar typing experiences in terms of ease of use during prolonged sessions. While the bottom out forces are also close, the difference in actuation force suggests that users who lean towards lighter switches may prefer the KTT Glimp, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may find the Chiikawa more appealing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch, a notable difference arises. The Chiikawa - 45g has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Glimp features a longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This makes the Chiikawa switch the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times due to its more rapid actuation. In contrast, the Glimp’s longer travel distance can provide a more substantial keypress experience, suited for those who prefer a deeper feel and might find the Chiikawa's distance too abrupt. Thus, depending on individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth, one might choose between the switches based on this key difference in 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 KTT Glimp has an MSRP of $3.84 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glimp for $3.45.
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 switch stands out with its bright sound profile, producing a crisp, high-pitched tone that resonates well, creating an inviting auditory experience. This characteristic makes it particularly appealing for users who enjoy a responsive and lively typing sound. In contrast, the KTT Glimp switch features a fairly clacky sound profile that provides a sharp, snappy auditory feedback with each keystroke, adding a distinct layer of percussiveness to the typing experience. While the Chiikawa is more on the bright and high-pitched side, the Glimp offers a rounded and balanced sound that can be described as both crisp and neutral, making it versatile for various environments.
In terms of feel, the Chiikawa - 45g is known for its very light actuation force, which typically translates to a less defined tactile feedback, ideal for users who prefer rapid keystrokes with minimal resistance. Conversely, the KTT Glimp is described to deliver a creamy and silky typing experience, combined with a mild feel that caters to those who enjoy a more substantial touch without overwhelming resistance. The creamy sensation gives users a sense of smoothness when typing, while its mild characteristics provide a gentle typing experience that can appeal to a broader range of users.
In summary, while the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g excels in providing a bright sound and a light pressing experience, the KTT Glimp switch balances tactile feedback with a clacky sound that makes typing feel satisfying and enjoyable. Depending on your personal preferences for auditory and sensory feedback, both switches can cater to different styles of typing, but they may produce different results based on their intrinsic qualities—resulting in the potential for both a lively and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for sound and feel in your typing experience. If you prioritize a very light actuation force coupled with a bright, crisp sound, the Chiikawa - 45g is an excellent choice, especially if you enjoy a responsive typing experience that feels effortless. This switch shines in environments where a lively auditory profile is desirable, making it suitable for both casual typing and gaming, especially if you'd like to evoke a certain character while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial and balanced typing feel, the KTT Glimp offers a creamy and mildly tactile experience with a satisfying clacky sound that brings an enjoyable auditory element to your sessions. This switch is well-suited for users looking for a comfortable middle ground that balances responsiveness and tactile feedback, making it versatile enough for work and leisure. In summary, consider the Chiikawa - 45g for a lighter, more traditional typing experience with an energetic sound, while opting for the Glimp if you desire a bit more substance without sacrificing comfort.
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