Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Gateron Ink Yellow
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Gateron Ink Yellow both stand out as appealing choices, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Chiikawa - 45g switch is notable for its very light actuation force and bright sound profile, which results in an exceptionally responsive feel and a crisp, high-pitched audio feedback during typing. This switch is ideal for users seeking a tactile experience that emphasizes speed and lightness. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Yellow provides a typing experience that strikes a balance between the smoothness of a laptop keyboard and the satisfying feedback of a traditional mechanical keyboard, noted for its shorter travel distance and a pleasant clackiness that enhances overall enjoyment. While both switches are categorized as linear, they yield distinctly different auditory and tactile sensations. The choice between these two ultimately depends on personal preference, but to truly determine which switch aligns best with your typing style, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches, one finds distinct contrasts, particularly in the top housing composition. The Chiikawa - 45g utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its rigidity and translucence, contributing to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material not only enhances the auditory experience but also complements RGB lighting effectively due to its clear nature. In contrast, the Ink Yellow features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which, while also providing a higher-pitched sound, is characterized as being pointed yet smoother compared to the sharper sound attributed to polycarbonate. Thus, while both switches can produce a satisfying auditory response, the nature of their respective top housing materials influences the tonal qualities and user experience experienced during typing.
Turning to the bottom housing, both switches diverge further in their material choices, influencing the overall sound profile. The Chiikawa - 45g employs a nylon bottom housing, recognized for its softer texture that yields a deeper and fuller sound. This quality allows the bottom housing to absorb more sound, producing a rounder auditory experience, particularly felt during bottoming out. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Yellow utilizes its proprietary INK blend for the bottom housing as well, which is designed to maintain clarity and a higher-pitched sound. Consequently, while the Chiikawa may produce a more subdued sound upon actuation, the Ink Yellow may keep auditory feedback relatively sharp and clacky, showcasing the divergence in sound quality based on the different materials used in the bottom housing.
In summary, both the Chiikawa - 45g and the Gateron Ink Yellow exhibit unique characteristics due to their differing top and bottom housing compositions. The Chiikawa's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom work together to create a sharper yet fuller sound experience, ideal for users seeking a contrasting auditory feedback. Conversely, the Ink Yellow blends two proprietary INK materials that contribute to a higher-pitched and clackier sound profile. Despite these differences, users may appreciate both switches for their ability to deliver satisfying and distinct typing experiences—demonstrating that, while the materials may not be the same, they can lead to enjoyable yet varied results based on user preferences and the context of usage.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Chiikawa features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, compared to the Ink Yellow's heavier actuation force of 60 grams, which may make the Chiikawa more appealing for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, especially during long sessions. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Chiikawa is 51 grams, whereas the Ink Yellow's bottom out force is significantly higher at 67 grams. This difference suggests that the Chiikawa offers a more gentle feedback when pressed down to the bottom, suited for those who enjoy a lighter touch. Consequently, while both switches serve different preferences, the Chiikawa - 45g is the lighter option, providing a softer typing experience, whereas the Gateron Ink Yellow is heavier and may better satisfy users seeking a more substantial feel with each keystroke.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch reveals that there is a slight difference between the two. The Chiikawa - 45g has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the longer option, while the Gateron Ink Yellow measures 3.5 mm, slightly shorter. This distinction suggests that using the Chiikawa switch may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a deeper feel, while the Ink Yellow may be more suitable for gamers or users who favor quicker, more responsive keystrokes with its shorter travel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preference regarding typing depth 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 Ink Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
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 Chiikawa - 45g linear switch stands out with its bright sound profile, characterized by a crisp, high-pitched sound that resonates energetically when typing. This quality lends a responsive character to the switch, making each keystroke feel lively and engaging. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch presents a sound profile that is more neutral yet retains a distinct clackiness. This results in a sharp and snappy sound upon actuation, which many typists find satisfying. While both switches produce enjoyable auditory experiences, the Chiikawa leans more towards a bright and percussive sound, whereas the Ink Yellow provides a pleasant mix of moderation and sharpness.
Regarding feel, the Chiikawa - 45g is known for its very light actuation force, which makes it notably responsive and easy to press, although specific details about its tactile feedback are not provided. Conversely, the Ink Yellow switch offers a mild feel that strikes a balance between gentle actuation and pleasant tactile feedback. This description suggests that the Ink Yellow's actuation is smoothly integrated into its overall typing experience. The Ink Yellow's polished quality adds to this, creating a sleek and refined feel with reduced friction, resulting in smooth key travel. While the Chiikawa excels in its lightness, the Ink Yellow appeals to users seeking a more rounded experience.
When considering both switches as a whole, the Chiikawa - 45g offers a lively sound and a very light actuation that caters to users who prefer a bright and responsive experience. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Yellow's neutral and clacky sound, combined with its mild yet polished feel, makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a balanced typing experience with a touch of character. Ultimately, both switches provide unique qualities, and depending on personal preference, one might gravitate towards the Chiikawa for an energetic session or the Ink Yellow for a smoother, more grounded approach to typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, consider your personal preferences and intended use. If you're after a lighter feel with a quick response and enjoy a more pronounced, high-pitched sound, the Chiikawa - 45g is an excellent choice. Its medium-light actuation force makes it ideal for fast typists or gamers who appreciate a snappy and bright feedback, particularly in fast-paced environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a more robust typing experience with a heavier bottom-out force and a shorter travel distance, the Gateron Ink Yellow is likely the better option. It offers a smooth, polished feel with some clackiness that can cater to users transitioning from laptop keyboards while maintaining a versatile sound profile suitable for diverse settings, be it at home or the office. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize lightness and responsiveness or if you’re inclined toward a milder, sturdier typing experience.
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