Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Bsun Light Sakura
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Bsun Light Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Bsun Light Sakura offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences and environments. 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. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy an audible response while typing and prefer a lighter touch. In contrast, the Bsun Light Sakura is designed with discretion and comfort in mind, boasting ultra-light feel and silent operation, making it ideal for extended typing sessions in quiet office environments or shared spaces. While the Chiikawa engages the senses and provides a lively typing experience, the Light Sakura focuses on a gentle and fatigue-reducing feel without disturbing those around you. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Bsun Light Sakura provide a fascinating study in contrasts, yet there are significant similarities that play a crucial role in sound and performance. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which is renowned for its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enables a clear resonance that enhances the auditory experience, especially important for users who opt for RGB lighting due to its translucency. Consequently, users can expect consistent sound quality in both switches when it comes to the top housing, creating vibrant lighting effects without compromising acoustic performance.
In terms of bottom housing, however, the Chiikawa - 45g and the Light Sakura diverge significantly. The Chiikawa - 45g features a nylon bottom housing, which is a traditional choice that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer material. This characteristic makes the bottom-out sound of the Chiikawa - 45g distinctly rounder and more muted compared to the Light Sakura, which employs a polycarbonate bottom housing. The use of polycarbonate in the bottom housing of the Light Sakura mimics the crispness found in its top housing, ultimately leading to a more uniform sound profile across both keypress and release. This means that while users will notice a marked difference in the sensation and audio quality when typing on each switch, those who prefer a brisk and clean acoustic feedback will find common ground within the polycarbonate elements.
Ultimately, the distinct combination of materials in the Chiikawa - 45g and the Light Sakura yields unique user experiences. While they achieve similar results concerning the responsiveness and brilliance of their respective sound profiles due to polycarbonate’s role in the top housing, the use of nylon in the Chiikawa's bottom housing creates a notably different auditory impact when bottoming out. Thus, users who appreciate the crispness inherent in the polycarbonate components will still find enjoyment in the deeper tones provided by the nylon bottom of the Chiikawa - 45g. This variety allows for a diverse range of tactile and auditory experiences, catering to different preferences among typists and gamers alike.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Chiikawa features an actuation force of 45 grams, significantly heavier than the Light Sakura’s 37 grams. This makes the Chiikawa better suited for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience, while the Light Sakura offers a lighter touch, ideal for longer typing sessions and gaming. In terms of bottom out force, the Chiikawa has a bottom out force of 51 grams, compared to the Light Sakura’s 43 grams. As a result, the Chiikawa is also the heavier option overall. Therefore, if you're looking for a lighter switch that facilitates extended typing with less strain, the Light Sakura would be the preferable choice, while the Chiikawa would cater to those who enjoy a firmer keystroke.
Travel distance
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them identical in this aspect. This means that users can expect the same tactile feedback and keypress feel when using either switch, as both switches travel the same distance from the top to the bottom. Overall, whether you choose the Chiikawa or the Light Sakura, you will achieve similar results in terms of how far the switch travels during use.
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 Bsun Light Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Sakura for $3.49.
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 Bsun Chiikawa - 45g switch is characterized by a bright, high-pitched clarity that resonates with each keystroke, making it an engaging option for users who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. This switch produces a crisp and responsive sound, which can be quite satisfying for those who prefer a more "lively" typing experience. In contrast, the Bsun Light Sakura switch is engineered for a more muted operation, catering to those who prioritize quietness in their typing environment. Its design effectively dampens noise, making it an ideal choice for office or shared spaces where discretion is necessary. Both switches deliver different auditory experiences, with the Chiikawa focusing on brightness and the Light Sakura emphasizing silence.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 45g offers an exceptionally light actuation force, resulting in a responsive typing experience that feels almost effortless. This quality makes it well-suited for users who prefer quick, fluid keystrokes without the need for substantial pressure. On the other hand, the Light Sakura switch also boasts an ultra-light feel, specifically designed for comfort during extended typing sessions. Its gentle actuation provides a soft touch that minimizes fatigue, making it appealing for long hours of use. While both switches share a penchant for a light touch, the Chiikawa's reactive nature contrasts with the Light Sakura's emphasis on comfort.
Overall, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switches cater to different preferences when it comes to sound and feel. If you crave a bright auditory experience with a responsive touch, the Chiikawa is your go-to option. Conversely, if you seek a quiet, comfortable typing experience that allows for prolonged use without disruption, the Light Sakura would be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, both switches will deliver a very light actuation experience, but the distinction lies in how they manage sound and usability in various environments.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and environment. If you favor a medium-light actuation force that strikes a balance between responsiveness and control, the Chiikawa - 45g is an excellent option. Its bright sound profile and crisp, high-pitched sound can enhance your typing experience, especially if you appreciate auditory feedback while you type. However, if you prioritize a quieter and more subtle typing experience, particularly in shared or professional settings, then the Light Sakura switch is the better choice with its ultra-light actuation force of 43 grams and silent operation. This switch is tailored for comfort during long typing sessions, reducing fatigue without distracting those around you. In summary, opt for the Chiikawa for lively feedback and engagement, and choose the Light Sakura for a serene and comfortable typing experience.
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