Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Outemu Lime (V3)

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often hinges on the balance between tactile feedback and typing responsiveness. The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g switch stands out with its incredibly light actuation force and bright sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who value a fast, smooth keypress along with a crisp, high-pitched auditory feedback. In contrast, the Outemu Lime switch offers a subtler experience with its lightweight design and muted tactile feedback, catering to users who prefer a soft touch while still enjoying a hint of tactile sensation. This combination makes the Lime a great option for tactile enthusiasts seeking a more refined typing feel without the overwhelming sound. Ultimately, each switch presents unique advantages: the Chiikawa for speed and sound, and the Lime for comfort and subtlety. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Bsun Chiikawa - 45g Linear

Outemu Lime (V3) Tactile

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$3.40 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Outemu Lime, the contrast in their top housings deserves particular attention. The Chiikawa - 45g features a polycarbonate top housing, a material known for its stiffness which leads to a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. This rigidity produces a crisp auditory feedback, making it ideal for users seeking a more responsive typing experience, especially when combined with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Outemu Lime sports a nylon top housing that delivers a duller and rounder sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper tone that may feel more muted but is preferred by those who favor a richer typing sensation.

However, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing materials, as both the Chiikawa - 45g and the Outemu Lime utilize nylon for this component. This similarity leads to an interesting dynamic when considering the overall typing experience. The nylon bottom housing's characteristics dominate the bottom-out sound and feel during typing, providing a fuller resonance that many users find satisfying. Consequently, regardless of the differences in the top housing, the bottom nuance will foster a more consistent experience in tactile response and sound, allowing users of both switches to enjoy the comforting and deep audio feedback typical of nylon.

In summary, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Outemu Lime offer distinct auditory experiences thanks to their differing top housing materials, yet they converge on the bottom housing aspect, both employing nylon. This duality ensures a rich, velvety bottom-out experience while also presenting varying tonal qualities influenced by the top housing. For users who appreciate both a crisp, brighter note as provided by the polycarbonate and a fuller, deeper sound offered by nylon, both switches can yield overall satisfying results, albeit through different auditory pathways.

Weight

When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, notable 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, indicating a medium-light feel that appeals to those who enjoy a balance between responsiveness and resistance. In contrast, the Outemu Lime switch has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for users seeking a lighter typing experience. This difference means that typists using the Lime switch may find it easier and less fatiguing for prolonged use, while those who prefer the Chiikawa's heavier feel may enjoy the more substantial feedback it provides. Overall, users can expect a lighter experience with the Outemu Lime, while the Chiikawa offers a more pronounced touch with its higher actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, there is a notable difference between the two. The Chiikawa - 45g features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the longer option, while the Outemu Lime offers a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This difference means that the Chiikawa switch provides a more pronounced key press, which might appeal to those who prefer a deeper feel when typing or gaming. Conversely, the shorter travel distance of the Lime switch could cater to gamers or users seeking quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preference for depth and responsiveness, with the Chiikawa offering a more traditional experience and the Lime providing a snappier feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Chiikawa - 45g linear switch is known for its bright sound profile, producing a crisp and high-pitched sound with every keystroke. This makes it suitable for those who enjoy an audibly responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime tactile switch has a more muted sound profile. It’s characterized by a neutral sound that excels in versatility, making it ideal for whatever environment you might find yourself in, be it home, office, or elsewhere. This muted signature helps to minimize the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, making the Lime switch an excellent choice for shared spaces.

In terms of feel, the Chiikawa - 45g offers a light actuation force, allowing for a very responsive and engaging typing experience. This light feel is particularly advantageous when typing quickly or gaming, as it requires less effort from the fingers. Conversely, the Lime switch tends to provide a mild and feathery typing sensation. It strikes a balance with its gentle resistance, standing in a comfortable middle ground that makes it approachable for most users. With its polished characteristics, the Lime switch reduces friction, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable feel when typing, further reducing finger fatigue during extended use.

In conclusion, both switches cater to different aesthetic and functional preferences. The Chiikawa - 45g shines with its bright sound and very light actuation, making it an engaging option for those who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback. Meanwhile, the Outemu Lime tactile switch provides a muted, versatile sound alongside a gentle, polished feel that excels in comfort and subtlety. Depending on your typing environment and personal preferences, either switch can deliver an enjoyable typing experience, each with its own distinctive qualities.

Conclusion

To conclude, when considering the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch versus the Outemu Lime tactile switch, the choice ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and intended use. If you favor a lightweight, nearly effortless typing experience paired with an engaging auditory feedback, the Chiikawa switch could be your go-to. It boasts a bright and crisp sound profile that can enhance both your gaming and typing dynamics, making it ideal for those who appreciate a responsive feel and enjoy the musicality of their keyboard. On the other hand, if you seek a more subdued yet tactile experience, the Outemu Lime switches offer a gentle feedback with a muted sound, making them perfect for shared environments like offices or homes where noise could be a concern. Their lightweight feel not only reduces finger fatigue but also provides a satisfyingly subtle tactile sensation, appealing to users who appreciate comfort during extended typing sessions. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you prioritize sound and responsiveness or a more muted, tactile feedback while promoting comfort.

Mentioned in this article

Bsun Chiikawa - 45g Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Lime (V3) Tactile

$3.40 per 10

Learn more