Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Cherry MX Orange provide intriguing yet distinct options for typists and gamers alike. The Chiikawa - 45g is celebrated for its light 45g actuation force and bright sound profile, delivering a highly responsive and crisp typing experience that many users find satisfying. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prioritize rapid key presses and an engaging auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange, a revival of the original Cherry MX Orange switches, combines the traditional qualities of Cherry's switches with modern enhancements for improved performance and longevity. Known for their tactile feedback and durability, they are ideal for users who desire a balanced typing experience suited for both gaming and typing. While both switches offer unique benefits, the Chiikawa is favored for its lightweight responsiveness, whereas the MX Orange offers a reliable tactile feel. 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
55g
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
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and Cherry MX Orange switches showcase distinct characteristics that significantly influence the overall sound and feel of each switch. The Chiikawa - 45g features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for being a stiffer material. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is clear and resonant, making it well-suited for RGB lighting applications due to its translucency. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange employs a nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound and generates a duller, rounder sound profile. Consequently, while the top housings of these two switches differ in material—and thereby in the sound they produce—their varying acoustics can lead to distinctly different auditory experiences when typing.
When examining the bottom housings, both switches utilize nylon. This shared material means that both the Chiikawa - 45g and MX Orange will elicit a deeper, fuller sound profile during typing. The nylon's softer properties make it excellent for absorbing sound, leading to a more muted acoustic experience that resonates similarly between the two switches. Therefore, while the top housings diverge in their characteristics, the identical nylon bottom housing serves to unify the aural experience, emphasizing the deep sound qualities during key presses and bottom outs.
The results experienced between the Chiikawa - 45g and the Cherry MX Orange switches can be understood as a combination of their unique top materials and shared bottom material. While the Chiikawa's polycarbonate top may create a brisk and resonant sound when releasing a key, the nylon bottom housing will still impart that familiar, fuller tone that both switches share during engagement. This interplay between the different top and bottom materials illustrates how varying housing compositions can influence the overall feel and sound experience of a switch, ultimately offering distinct yet complementary results in tactile and auditory feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch with the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Chiikawa - 45g features an actuation force of 45 grams, which is classified as medium-light, making it easier on the fingers for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, accommodating users who prefer a more substantial keystroke feel. Regarding bottom out forces, the Chiikawa switch reaches a bottom out force of 51 grams, while the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Orange remains unknown. Consequently, the Chiikawa - 45g is the lighter option, suitable for those who desire less effort when typing, while the Cherry MX Orange caters to users who favor heavier switches for a firmer feel. If both their forces were to be equal, typists would experience similar tactile feedback; however, given their differences, users will have to decide based on their own preferences for weight and typing sensation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, we find a clear distinction between the two. The Chiikawa switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cherry MX Orange's travel distance is slightly longer at 4.0 mm. This means that if you choose the Chiikawa switch, you'll benefit from a shorter travel distance, which can provide quicker responsiveness, making it particularly appealing for gamers seeking rapid key presses. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange offers a more substantial depth, which may be favored by those who prefer a more tactile and hearty feel when typing. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize responsiveness or a deeper key press 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 Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch is characterized by its bright sound profile, producing a crisp and high-pitched auditory feedback that many users find engaging. This can create an enjoyable typing experience, especially for those who appreciate more lively acoustics in their keyboard. Conversely, the Cherry MX Orange, while a revival of the original MX Orange switches, might offer a different auditory character altogether, but specific details about its sound profile in comparison to the Chiikawa are not provided. It's important to note that the sound produced by either switch can be significantly influenced by other factors, such as the choice of keyboard housing and keycap materials.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 45g linear switch is known for its very light actuation force, which contributes to a highly responsive typing experience. This lightness can be particularly appealing for typists and gamers who value speed and precision. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange has undergone enhancements to meet high demand, but its tactile feedback and actuation force specifics are less clear in this context. Similar to sound, the feel of these switches may also be affected by the keyboard design and personal typing style.
In conclusion, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and Cherry MX Orange switches present distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Chiikawa's bright sound and light actuation make it fun and responsive, while the MX Orange brings historical significance and enhancements to the typing experience. While specific comparisons in sound and feel between the two may be limited, selecting either option can lead to a satisfying experience depending on your personal preferences and keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and actuation force. If you appreciate a lighter typing experience and enjoy a bright, crisp sound profile, the Chiikawa - 45g is a great option. Its medium-light bottom out force of 51 grams means you can type quickly and responsively, making it ideal for gaming or fast-paced typing tasks. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a more traditional feel and do not mind the unknown bottom out force of the MX Orange, this switch may be your best bet. The MX Orange combines historical authenticity with modern enhancements, providing a unique typing experience rooted in nostalgia. It is particularly suitable for users who appreciate a switch that balances between tactile feedback and silent operation, making it versatile for both gaming and office environments. By considering your specific needs and typing habits, you can make an informed decision on which switch to choose for your keyboard.
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