Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. HMX Jammy
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the HMX Jammy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the HMX Jammy both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Chiikawa - 45g is celebrated for its bright sound profile and very light actuation force, providing a responsive typing experience that emits a crisp, high-pitched sound with every keystroke. This makes it an appealing choice for those who prefer a more tactile and auditory feedback while typing, enhancing the overall engagement during use. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy switch features softer, glittery nylon housings that contribute to a muted yet deeply satisfying typing experience. With a medium-weight feel, the Jammy strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort, perfect for users seeking a more subdued sound without sacrificing quality. While both switches fall into the linear category, their distinct sound profiles and actuation forces cater to various typing styles and preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
57g
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the HMX Jammy, a notable distinction arises primarily from their top housings. The Chiikawa - 45g utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, characterized by its stiffness and translucency that produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This material not only enhances the crispness of keystrokes but also allows RGB lighting to shine through effectively. In contrast, the HMX Jammy features a nylon top housing, traditionally known for its softer texture, which contributes to a deeper and rounder sound profile. This fundamental difference in top housing materials leads to distinct acoustic characteristics, influencing how users experience the feel and sound of each switch.
However, both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, which plays a crucial role in the overall sound profile. The use of nylon for both switches’ bottoms facilitates a fuller auditory experience, as this material absorbs sound, lending a certain depth to the keystroke. Since both the Chiikawa - 45g and the HMX Jammy have nylon bottom housings, this aspect provides common ground in terms of experiencing a more rounded sound quality when bottoming out the keys. As a result, regardless of the differences in their top housing materials, users can expect a similar depth and richness in sound while typing due to the nylon bottom.
Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the Chiikawa - 45g and the HMX Jammy offer diverse auditory experiences that can appeal to different user preferences. While the Chiikawa's polycarbonate top leads to a brighter and more resonant sound, the Jammy's nylon top provides a more subdued and warm tonal quality. The nylon bottom housing in both switches ensures that the full-bodied sound remains consistent, creating a cohesive typing experience that balances the unique characteristics of each top housing. Thus, for users seeking a specific auditory signature, the choice may boil down to whether they prefer the sharper clarity of the Chiikawa or the deeper sound character of the Jammy.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, significant differences in their actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Chiikawa switch features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams, classifying it as medium-light. In contrast, the Jammy switch demands a heavier touch with an actuation force of 57 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, categorizing it as medium. This means the Chiikawa is the lighter option, appealing to those who prefer less force for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, while the Jammy offers a more substantial push feel favored by users who enjoy a firmer typing experience. Consequently, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces of these switches indicate that users will have distinctly different tactile experiences depending on their preference for lighter or heavier switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, the Chiikawa has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jammy features a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Chiikawa the shorter option, offering a slightly quicker actuation that can be more responsive for gaming enthusiasts who favor nimbleness in their keystrokes. In contrast, the Jammy, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing, giving the sensation of deeper engagement with each keystroke. Both switches are within the realm of shorter travel distances in contemporary design, yet the subtle difference suggests that users seeking responsiveness might lean towards the Chiikawa, while those who enjoy a more traditional depth could opt for the Jammy.
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 HMX Jammy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jammy for $2.99.
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 linear switch features a bright sound profile that produces a crisp, high-pitched noise upon actuation. This attribute makes it notably responsive and engaging for typing, particularly well-suited for users who enjoy a perky auditory feedback. In contrast, the HMX Jammy linear switch offers a clacky sound, characterized by a sharp and snappy acoustic response that is bright and percussive. It's important to note that the overall sound experience can vary based on the keyboard build and the type of keycaps used, meaning both switches can deliver satisfying auditory experiences, albeit in different tones.
On the aspect of feel, the Chiikawa - 45g linear switch is known for its very light actuation force, making it effortless to press, resulting in a typing experience that prioritizes speed and responsiveness. Meanwhile, the Jammy switch provides a bouncy sensation, delivering a springy rebound effect that adds to its tactile enjoyment. The Jammy switches are also polished, contributing to a smooth and refined typing experience, reducing friction during key travel. This combination gives the Jammy a more dynamic and enjoyable feel, appealing to users who appreciate a bit of elasticity in their keystrokes.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and HMX Jammy linear switches present unique auditory and tactile qualities that cater to different preferences. The Chiikawa excels in creating a bright and crisp sound with a lightweight feel for quick actuation, whereas the Jammy switch offers a more textured experience with a clackier sound that incorporates a lively bounce and a polished finish for smooth keystrokes. Users who prioritize a light and responsive typing experience may gravitate towards the Chiikawa, while those seeking a more tactile and enjoyable feedback will find the Jammy to be an excellent choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch should primarily hinge on your typing style and sound preference. If you prefer a switch that is light and responsive, providing a bright, high-pitched sound while typing, the Chiikawa - 45g is an excellent option. Its lighter actuation force makes it particularly suitable for those who are fast typists or gamers looking for quick key presses. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more muted typing experience combined with a bouncy and polished feel, the HMX Jammy switch would be more appropriate. With its deeper, clacky sound profile and medium actuation force, the Jammy can offer a satisfying tactile feedback and a more substantial feel, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions or for those who appreciate a bit more resistance under their fingers. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you value a lighter, crisper response with the Chiikawa or a more substantial, smooth experience with the Jammy.
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