Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Keygeek Keylin
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Keygeek Keylin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Keygeek Keylin present intriguing options for enthusiasts looking for linear switches, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Chiikawa - 45g is renowned for its very light actuation force and bright sound profile, providing a responsive feel paired with a crisp, high-pitched typing sound. This makes it an excellent choice for users who prefer a more tactile and lively auditory feedback during their typing sessions. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keylin stands out with its premium build quality, delivering exceptional smoothness and rich acoustics thanks to new molds developed by Keygeek. This switch is ideal for those who value a refined, smooth typing experience devoid of any disruption from scratchy sounds. While both switches cater to linear enthusiasts, they differ substantially in sound and tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Y3X
Stem material
UPE
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
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Keygeek Keylin, a stark contrast emerges between their top housings. The Chiikawa - 45g employs polycarbonate for its top housing, a material known for its rigidity, which contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound profile. This is particularly beneficial for users who prefer a crisp auditory feedback when typing, especially when RGB lighting is involved, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual effect. In contrast, the Keylin utilizes nylon for its top housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound and creates a duller, deeper audio experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy a fuller and more muted sound profile while typing. This fundamental difference showcases how the choice of top housing impacts the overall sound experience when using the respective switches.
However, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housings, which are made from nylon. The material choice here plays a similar role in both switches, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile typical of nylon. As nylon tends to absorb sound, it helps to create a softer bottom-out feel and reduces the harshness that might be felt with harder materials. Since both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, users can expect a relatively similar experience in terms of feel and sound at the bottom-out point when typing, irrespective of the differing top housing materials.
Ultimately, the unique combination of housing materials in both switches offers a diverse range of auditory feedback and tactile sensation. With the Chiikawa - 45g's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom, users will experience a bright and crisp sound on release paired with a deeper feel when bottoming out. Conversely, the Keygeek Keylin provides a consistent deep sound profile courtesy of its all-nylon construction, promoting a full-bodied auditory experience throughout. Therefore, users can expect distinct outcomes based on the individual characteristics of the top and bottom housings in each switch, leading to different preferences based on typing style and acoustic preference.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, distinct differences emerge. The Chiikawa switch features a notable 45-gram actuation force and a bottom out force of 51 grams, making it a medium-light option that would appeal to those who enjoy a balance between tactile feedback and ease of typing. In contrast, the Keylin switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, which caters to users seeking a lighter touch for prolonged typing sessions or gaming marathons. This difference means that while both switches have a bottom out force, the Chiikawa switch is heavier overall, making it potentially more suitable for individuals who prefer a more substantial keystroke, whereas the Keylin switch could be ideal for those who favor a softer keystroke experience. Overall, if you're looking for a lighter switch, the Keylin is the better choice, while the Chiikawa offers a bit more resistance for those who enjoy a firmer feel.
Travel distance
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that users will experience the same physical distance when pressing down on either key. This similarity in travel distance suggests that they will provide comparable tactile feedback and actuation experiences, making them equally efficient for typing and gaming purposes. Since both switches have identical travel distances, users can expect similar results in terms of key responsiveness and overall feel.
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 Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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
The sound profile of the Chiikawa - 45g linear switch is characterized by its bright and crisp high-pitched tone, which contributes to an engaging typing experience. This quality makes it particularly appealing to those who enjoy a lively auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch is renowned for its rich acoustics, which suggests a more full-bodied sound, potentially offering a deeper and more satisfying auditory experience. Both switches' sound will inevitably be influenced by the keyboard they are installed in and the keycaps used, but those preferring high-pitched responses may lean toward the Chiikawa, while those who favor a more rounded acoustic experience might favor the Keylin.
In terms of feel, the Chiikawa - 45g ignites a sense of lightness with its very light actuation force, allowing it to feel particularly responsive and conducive to swift typing actions. The Keylin switch is hailed for its exceptional smoothness, promising a seamless and pleasurable keypress experience. While the Chiikawa offers a tactile delight in its weight sensitivity, the Keylin is aimed at users looking for fluidity in their keystrokes. Ultimately, if you're seeking a nimble and quick response, the Chiikawa may resonate more with you; however, if you prioritize a silky, uninterrupted feel, the Keylin could be the better choice.
Ultimately, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch present unique properties that cater to different preferences. The Chiikawa's bright sound and light actuation force position it as an excellent choice for those who value a lively and responsive typing environment. In contrast, the Keylin's rich acoustics and smooth keypress appeal to those who seek a more premium and refined experience. Depending on your priorities regarding sound and feel, either switch could offer a satisfying result, and your ultimate choice may hinge on personal preferences that align closely with these attributes.
Conclusion
To wrap up, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a more responsive typing experience with a light actuation force and appreciate a crisp, high-pitched sound profile, the Chiikawa - 45g might be your ideal choice. Its medium-light bottom-out force may contribute to a quicker typing pace, making it suitable for fast typists or gamers who value immediate feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier feel and prioritize smoothness along with rich acoustics, the Keylin switch could be the better option. With its light bottom-out force and a focus on providing a premium typing experience, it is well-suited for those who enjoy a tactile, quieter, yet still enjoyable sound while typing. Ultimately, your decision should align with how you prefer your mechanical keyboard to feel and sound during use, ensuring that you select a switch that enhances your overall experience.
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