Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference and typing style, and two standout options are the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Gateron Melodic. The Chiikawa - 45g is a linear switch that offers a remarkably light actuation force and a bright sound profile that creates a responsive and crisp typing experience. This makes it particularly appealing for users who prioritize speed and efficiency, as its smooth keystrokes allow for rapid typing without the distraction of tactile bumps or clicks. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic revitalizes the clicky switch category with its innovative features, including smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems. This results in a delightful auditory and tactile feedback that many typists find satisfying, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy the classic clicky sound without sacrificing smoothness. Each switch offers unique advantages that cater to different typing preferences, but 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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 Gateron Melodic both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a similar auditory experience when typing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that enhances clarity and resonance. This characteristic is particularly beneficial for users who enjoy RGB lighting, as the translucent nature of polycarbonate effectively showcases light, making it an optimal choice for aesthetically pleasing keyboards. With both models using polycarbonate for the top housing, users can expect to experience a relatively consistent sound signature, bringing a crisp quality to their typing experience.
Contrasting the top housing, both the Chiikawa - 45g and Melodic share nylon as their bottom housing material. The use of nylon introduces a distinct auditory difference, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This quality allows nylon components to absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder and less resonant tone. While the top portion of the switch contributes significantly to the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing influences the feel and sound of bottoming out. As both switches utilize nylon for this part, the overall typing experience shares a similar deeper timbre, which works in harmony with the higher-pitched sounds produced by their polycarbonate tops.
In essence, both the Chiikawa - 45g and the Gateron Melodic share materials that yield unique yet complementary effects on sound and feel. The similarities in their polycarbonate top housings ensure a bright and resonant sound profile, while the use of nylon for the bottom housings contributes to a mellow undertone. This synergy allows for an enjoyable and well-rounded typing experience, making both switches appealing options for users seeking specific sound and feel dynamics in their keyboards. Whether one prefers the Chiikawa or the Melodic, the combination of these housing materials ensures that typing will yield satisfying auditory results and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch present notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Chiikawa switch has a specified actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic lacks a specified actuation force but has a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium range. Consequently, we can determine that the Chiikawa switch is the lighter option, which may appeal to users who prefer less resistance for longer typing sessions or extended gaming. Conversely, the Gateron Melodic, with its higher bottom out force, offers a firmer push that some typists may favor for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the Chiikawa switch's consistent actuation and bottom out characteristics may yield a smoother experience, while the Melodic's higher bottom out force requires more effort to press down, contributing to its heavier feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it is evident that they differ significantly. The Chiikawa switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Melodic switch has a more traditional travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users of the Chiikawa switch may experience a more responsive feel due to the shorter travel distance, which is often favored by gamers looking for quicker actuation. In contrast, the Melodic switch, with its longer travel distance, might appeal to those who prefer a deeper, more tactile experience while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for response time versus travel depth.
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 Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 Chiikawa - 45g is characterized by its bright sound profile, producing a crisp, high-pitched sound that makes typing a distinctly lively experience. This switch’s auditory feedback is finely tuned for responsiveness, offering a sharp and clear tone that can evoke a sense of enjoyment when each key is actuated. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic excels in providing a resonant and crunchy sound that brings forth an immersive auditory experience. The resonant nature of the Melodic’s sound translates to a clean and sharp profile, while its crunchy characteristics liken the auditory experience to stepping on piles of crispy autumn leaves, adding a nostalgic quality to each keystroke. Both switches cater to different preferences, but they promise a satisfying sensory experience based on their unique sound properties.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 45g boasts a very light actuation force, allowing for rapid and effortless keystrokes, which enhances responsiveness during typing. The switch provides a linear feel that appeals to those who favor a smooth and uninterrupted key press. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic combines buttery smoothness with invigorating feedback, resulting in a versatile typing sensation. The buttery feel ensures smooth and fluid motion, while the invigorating feedback offers pronounced, snappy responses on actuation, appealing to users who enjoy distinct tactile sensations. These differing experiences mean that while the Chiikawa is more about lightness and fluidity, the Melodic is focused on a blend of smoothness and tactile richness.
Ultimately, both the Chiikawa - 45g and Gateron Melodic offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences, reflecting their respective design philosophies. The Chiikawa is all about a bright, responsive sound and a very light touch for fluid typing, perfect for those who prioritize speed and silence. In contrast, the Melodic excels in delivering a satisfying auditory crunch and tactile feedback that can invigorate the typing experience. Choosing between them depends on whether you prefer a lighter, linear feel with a bright sound or a more tactile, clicky sensation with a resonant and crunch-rich auditory experience. Both options promise to elevate your typing enjoyment based on your personal preference.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences in typing experience and sound profile. If you favor a lighter touch with a responsive feel, the Chiikawa - 45g would be the better option, especially if you enjoy a crisp, high-pitched sound that enhances typing feedback without the clutter of tactile bumps. This makes it ideal for rapid typing or gaming, where speed and agility are crucial. On the other hand, if you relish the classic clicky sensation with a more substantial bottom-out force and a resonant sound that evokes nostalgia, the Gateron Melodic is your go-to choice. With its smooth actuation and the satisfying crunch of each keystroke, it’s well-suited for those who appreciate a tactile and auditory connection while typing. Therefore, consider your typing style, whether you prefer quick, efficient strokes or a richer auditory experience, as both switches offer unique benefits tailored to different preferences.
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