Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the PH Studio Jacaranda are two excellent choices for enthusiasts seeking a linear typing experience. The Chiikawa switch is distinguished by its very light actuation force and bright sound profile, resulting in a notably responsive feel and crisp, high-pitched audio feedback with each keystroke. This can make it particularly attractive for those who value quick, effortless typing and enjoy a lively sound while they work or game. In contrast, the Jacaranda, manufactured by KTT, features a gentle bottom-out of 43.5g that also promotes fatigue-free typing. However, what truly sets it apart is its extended 22mm spring, which imparts a bouncy sensation while its clacky sound adds an engaging auditory dimension to the experience. Here, users seeking a smooth yet lively typing feel might gravitate toward the Jacaranda. Both switches offer unique attributes that cater to different preferences, and while the Chiikawa captivates with its bright, responsive nature, the Jacaranda enchants with its bouncy comfort and engaging sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
39g
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
3.50 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
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the PH Studio Jacaranda, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings and nylon for their bottom housings. The polycarbonate top housing in both models is characterized by its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which enhances sound clarity and resonance. Additionally, both switches benefit aesthetically from the translucency of polycarbonate, making them particularly compatible with RGB lighting. Consequently, regardless of the specific switch, users can expect a visually striking effect and an enhanced auditory experience when the switches are illuminated.
Diving deeper into the difference brought by the bottom housing, both the Chiikawa - 45g and Jacaranda use nylon, known for imparting a distinct deep and full sound profile during use. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, leading to a rounder and more muted auditory experience. Since both models employ this material in their bottom housings, users will experience a similar depth of sound and tactile feedback when pressing the keys. The combination of nylon in the bottom and polycarbonate in the top housing creates a balanced auditory experience, merging the sharpness of high frequencies from the polycarbonate with the warmth and depth from the nylon.
Ultimately, while both the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the PH Studio Jacaranda share identical material profiles, their architectural arrangement creates unique sound characteristics that reflect the strengths of each material. The polycarbonate top housing accentuates the high-pitched clarity when keys are released, while the nylon bottom housing rounds out the tactile feedback on the bottom out. Therefore, users can expect an overall synergistic impact on sound and feel when using either switch, ensuring that the results in terms of auditory experience and feel will not only be pleasing but also comparably enjoyable.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Chiikawa switch features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams, categorizing it as medium-light; on the other hand, the Jacaranda has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes the Jacaranda a lighter option overall. The lighter actuation force of the Jacaranda may appeal to users who prefer less resistance for extended typing sessions, while the heavier Chiikawa may offer a more substantial feel for those who prefer a stronger press. Both switches, while differing in their forces, cater to varying preferences; lighter users may find satisfaction in the Jacaranda for its ease of use, whereas those desiring a bit more heft might gravitate towards the Chiikawa.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, it is clear that these two options cater to slightly different preferences in key feel and responsiveness. The Chiikawa has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the longer of the two switches, while the Jacaranda measures at 3.5 mm, giving it a marginally shorter travel distance. For gamers who prioritize faster response times, the Jacaranda's shorter travel distance can provide a snappier feel, whereas the Chiikawa may appeal to those who appreciate a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance, with the Chiikawa offering slightly more substance and the Jacaranda prioritizing quicker activation.
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 PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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 is characterized by its bright and high-pitched sound profile, resulting in a crisp auditory experience when typing. This switch produces a notably responsive sound, which becomes particularly engaging during rapid typing sequences. In comparison, the PH Studio Jacaranda switch leans towards a clacky sound signature, delivering a sharp and snappy auditory feedback with every key press. The combination of its crisp, bright tones and resonant quality creates a lively and immersive auditory experience. Both switches promise a pronounced sound profile that can be influenced by the keyboard's build and the choice of keycaps, lending an enjoyable acoustic layer to the typing experience.
Turning to the feel, the Chiikawa - 45g features a very light actuation force, making it not only responsive but also easy on the fingers. This lightness allows for quick, effortless key presses that enhance overall typing speed. Meanwhile, the Jacaranda switch offers a silky smooth typing experience, thanks in part to its unique extended spring design, which provides a notable bounce with each press. This added spring length minimizes resistance, further amplifying the smoothness of keystrokes and creating an inviting tactile experience. Both switches cater to a comfort-driven typing interaction, though the Chiikawa focuses on light actuation, while the Jacaranda elevates the experience with a bouncy, silky feel.
In conclusion, while the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and PH Studio Jacaranda linear switches present distinct sound profiles—one bright and high-pitched, the other clacky and percussive—they both offer engaging auditory experiences. The Chiikawa provides an exceptionally light actuation force, while the Jacaranda is distinguished by its silky smoothness and bounce. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you prioritize sound over feel or vice versa; however, both switches promise a satisfying typing experience that caters to different preferences in auditory and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switches, consider your typing preferences and the type of experience you're seeking. If you enjoy a medium-light feel with a bright, high-pitched sound, as well as a more responsive actuation, the Chiikawa - 45g would be the ideal choice for you. Its characteristics are suited for those who want a lively auditory feedback and don't mind a bit more force at the bottom-out, making it great for both gaming and typing where speed matters. On the other hand, if you prefer an exceptionally light touch with a softer and more forgiving bottom-out force, the Jacaranda will provide a cushy, fatigue-free typing experience. Its bounciness, coupled with its clacky and crisp audio profile, creates a distinctively engaging interaction that could enhance your daily typing or gaming sessions. In essence, choose the Chiikawa for a punchy sound and responsive feel, or opt for the Jacaranda for a smooth, effortless typing experience that prioritizes comfort and a delightful bounce. Your choice ultimately depends on whether you lean more towards auditory excitement or a silky-smooth feedback sensation.
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