Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Dareu Master both present intriguing options for typists and gamers alike, though they cater to slightly different preferences. The Chiikawa - 45g is celebrated for its incredibly light actuation force and distinct bright sound profile, making it exceptionally responsive and suitable for those who enjoy a high-pitched auditory feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the Dareu Master offers a medium weight and a polished operation, characterized by its classic clacky sound signature that appeals to users seeking a satisfying tactile experience without compromising on smoothness. While both switches belong to the linear category, the nuances in their actuation force and sound profiles can greatly influence your typing experience. 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
45g
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
3.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Dareu Master, it becomes evident that both switches utilize unique materials that significantly influence their overall sound profiles. The Chiikawa - 45g features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper and crisper sound. This is attributed to polycarbonate's relatively stiff nature that enhances clarity and resonance. In contrast, the Dareu Master employs a POM top housing which, while still capable of delivering unique sound, tends to offer a deeper and more muted sound profile. The differences in top housing materials suggest that typists may experience varied tonal qualities, especially when they experience the top-out sound, where the Chiikawa provides a brighter note and the Master a more subdued tone.
Turning to the bottom housing, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g comes with a nylon material while the Dareu Master utilizes POM once again. The nylon used in the Chiikawa's bottom housing contributes to a fuller and deeper sound, absorbing more vibrations due to its softness. This characteristic helps in creating a rounder acoustic profile that feels heavier during typing. The Dareu Master, with its POM bottom housing, also aims for a deeper sound; however, it leans towards a more muted experience than nylon would typically provide. While both switches may bring a rich auditory experience to the user, the nylon in the Chiikawa may give a more textured bottoming feel compared to the POM's slightly cleaner soundscape.
Ultimately, while the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Dareu Master employ different housing materials for both top and bottom housings, they can still deliver desirable results in terms of sound and feel. The polycarbonate in the Chiikawa's top promotes a bright sound while its nylon bottom adds depth; conversely, the Master’s POM components are designed to yield a muted yet rich auditory experience. Therefore, both switches can provide satisfying responses, but they will evoke different sensations and sound characteristics due to their distinct housing materials. Regardless of the differences, users can expect a compelling typing experience, whether they favor the clarity of polycarbonate or the muted richness of POM.
Weight
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. This similarity means that users can expect comparable typing responsiveness between the two switches. However, a key difference arises with the bottom out forces; the Chiikawa switch has a bottom out force of 51 grams, while the bottom out force for the Dareu Master is unknown. This discrepancy suggests that the Chiikawa offers a firmer feel upon fully pressing the key, which might appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the Chiikawa switch is slightly heavier due to its bottom out force, making it more suitable for those who enjoy tactile feedback, while the lighter actuation force of both switches will cater to those who prefer less resistance during typing, suitable for extended use.
Travel distance
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Master linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Chiikawa switch offers a bit more depth in its travel, which can provide a more robust tactile feedback for those who enjoy a traditional feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Master, with its 3.4 mm travel, caters more to gamers and users who prefer quicker response times due to its shorter distance. While both switches can yield satisfactory results depending on personal preference, individuals who appreciate a more profound keypress may lean towards the Chiikawa switch, whereas those prioritizing speed and responsiveness might favor the Master. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value a hearty depth or a snappier action in your typing or gaming experience.
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 Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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 is characterized by its bright and crisp high-pitched tone that makes each keystroke feel responsive and lively. This distinct sound profile can contribute to an engaging typing experience, particularly for those who enjoy audible feedback. On the other hand, the Dareu Master linear switch presents a classic clacky sound signature; its sharp and snappy sound produces a distinctly percussive auditory experience. While both switches may offer engaging sound profiles, the Chiikawa focuses on a bright tone, whereas the Master leans into a clackier auditory feedback, highlighting different auditory preferences for users.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g offers a notably light actuation force, making it highly responsive; however, specific qualitative descriptions of its tactile sensation are not provided. This lightness can contribute to quick typing speeds, appealing to typists who prioritize efficiency. Conversely, the Dareu Master switch is classified as mild, providing a gentle and approachable typing experience. Its polished nature suggests a smooth operation, enhancing the overall typing feel by reducing friction and allowing for seamless key travel. The combination of moderate weight and polished smoothness in the Master switch makes it suitable for users who may seek a balanced, refined typing experience.
In summary, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch is defined by its bright sound and light tactile profile, offering a highly responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Master linear switch features a clacky sound and a mild yet polished feel, appealing to those who enjoy a smoother, moderate typing experience. While both switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, users can select based on their individual tastes and typing styles to achieve satisfying results in their keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Dareu Master linear switch boils down to your personal preferences in typing experience and sound profile. If you favor a lighter actuation force and enjoy a bright, responsive feel paired with a crisp, high-pitched sound when you type, the Chiikawa - 45g will likely be the right fit for you. This switch is perfect for those who want a speedy typing experience without much resistance, making it ideal for fast-paced typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a more balanced feel with a medium weight that offers a polished and smooth typing experience, the Dareu Master linear switch could be your go-to. Known for its classic clacky sound signature, it delivers a comfortable and approachable typing experience that may appeal more broadly to various users. Consider the environments in which you’ll be using the keyboard and the kind of feedback you desire, as this will greatly influence your overall satisfaction with either switch. Ultimately, it’s about finding the switch that complements your style best, enhancing both your productivity and enjoyment.
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