Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Jerrzi Orange
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Jerrzi Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard, the type of switch can greatly influence your typing experience, and two noteworthy options are the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Jerrzi Orange, both of which are linear switches. The Chiikawa - 45g is celebrated for its bright sound profile and very light actuation force, resulting in a highly responsive typing experience characterized by a crisp, high-pitched sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange offers a clacky, linear feel that also features a lightweight touch but delivers a more pronounced auditory feedback, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate a lively and engaging typing atmosphere. While both switches cater to those who prefer linear switches that require less resistance, the choice between the two ultimately comes down to the desired blend of sound and tactile feedback. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Jerrzi Orange switches share a commonality in their construction, particularly regarding their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches are designed to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance. Furthermore, both switches benefit aesthetically from this material, especially for RGB lighting setups, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows light to pass through effectively. Therefore, users can expect a similar performance in terms of sound sharpness and visual effects when these switches are utilized in backlit keyboards.
In addition to their shared top housing material, both the Chiikawa - 45g and the Jerrzi Orange utilize nylon for their bottom housings. The nylon contributes a contrasting depth to the overall sound profile, creating a fuller and muffled sound due to the material's inherently softer properties. This duality in materials allows both switches to deliver distinct auditory experiences: the crisper, higher tones produced by the polycarbonate top are balanced by the deeper, rounder resonance of the nylon bottom. Consequently, typists can experience the unique combination of clarity and fullness in both switches, making them appealing for varied typing preferences.
While there are similarities in housing materials that lend both switches their sound characteristics, the differences in the material contributions fundamentally affect the overall feel and acoustic quality of each switch. Since the Chiikawa - 45g and the Jerrzi Orange maintain these consistent relationships of top and bottom materials, users can expect to replicate the same layered auditory results across both switch types. This harmonious interaction between the stiffer polycarbonate top and the softer nylon bottom ensures that while each switch may have its distinct personality, the overall experience remains strikingly similar, allowing for personal preference to guide choice while still achieving satisfying sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces that cater to varying user preferences. The Chiikawa switch requires an actuation force of 45 grams and has a bottom out force of 51 grams, classifying it as medium-light. In contrast, the Orange switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, which may appeal to users looking for less resistance during typing, making it favorable for longer typing sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Jerrzi Orange switch is unknown, leaving some ambiguity regarding how it feels when fully pressed down. Overall, the Chiikawa is the heavier switch, providing a more substantial typing experience, while the Orange is the lighter option, which may lead to a more effortless keystroke. Users seeking a lighter switch may gravitate towards the Orange, while those desiring more feedback and heaviness may prefer the Chiikawa.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, we see a slight difference favoring the Chiikawa switch. The Chiikawa has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Orange measures 3.7 mm. This makes the Chiikawa the shorter of the two options, which could appeal to gamers seeking a more responsive and quicker actuation for their key presses. Conversely, the 3.7 mm travel distance of the Jerrzi Orange may provide a more substantial feel, which some users might prefer for a more tactile experience. Ultimately, if you lean towards shorter travel distances for enhanced speed, the Chiikawa would be the preferable choice, whereas those who enjoy more depth in their key presses might appreciate the Jerrzi Orange's longer travel.
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 Jerrzi Orange has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $2.30.
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
In terms of sound, the Chiikawa - 45g switch is known for its bright and crisp high-pitched profile, making it particularly responsive and engaging during typing. The lively sound can create an exciting atmosphere for users, especially in quiet environments where each keystroke is pronounced. In contrast, the Jerrzi Orange switch offers a clacky auditory experience that is both crisp and percussive, contributing to its vibrant character. While it also delivers an audible feedback with each keypress, it possesses a more dynamic sound signature that emphasizes a sharper sound. Therefore, if you're seeking a lively auditory experience, both switches can provide that, albeit through slightly different sonic expressions.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 45g switch promotes a light actuation force that enhances responsiveness, making it a superb choice for those who enjoy a swift typing experience. Unfortunately, specific details regarding its tactile feedback or additional characteristics were not provided. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange excels with its feathery and easy-to-press nature. Users will find that these switches require minimal exertion, greatly reducing finger fatigue during long typing or gaming sessions. This effortless feel contributes to a delightful typing experience, ensuring that the user remains comfortable and engaged.
In summary, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and Jerrzi Orange linear switches cater to those who appreciate responsiveness in their typing experience, though they do so through varied sound and tactile characteristics. While the Chiikawa offers a brighter and more engaging auditory feedback, the Orange thrives on a clacky and bubbly sound. In terms of feel, the Chiikawa boasts a light actuation force, while the Orange excels in its exceptionally low effort requirement for key presses. Ultimately, both switches can deliver enjoyable experiences, making them compelling options for newcomers to mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing needs. If you’re someone who enjoys a vibrant and lively typing experience with a bright sound profile, the Chiikawa - 45g is likely the perfect fit for you. Its medium-light actuation force and responsive feel make it an excellent choice for both gaming and extensive typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a clacky yet subdued sound with a feathery touch, the Jerrzi Orange would be a more suitable option. Its exceptionally light actuation and easy-to-press nature are ideal for reducing finger fatigue, making it great for prolonged use, whether for work, gaming, or study. Ultimately, consider what you value most in your typing experience—whether it's the auditory feedback and crispness of each keystroke offered by the Chiikawa, or the lightweight and fatigue-free typing experience of the Jerrzi. By aligning your choice with your personal preferences, you can optimize your mechanical keyboard experience.
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