Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Gateron New North Pole V2 stand out as compelling options, both classified as linear switches but offering distinct experiences. The Chiikawa - 45g is celebrated for its exceptionally light actuation force and bright sound profile, making it not only highly responsive but also enjoyable to type on with its crisp, high-pitched sound. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 takes a different approach: it eliminates the rubber dampener found in its predecessor to deliver a crisper typing experience, all while preserving the smooth, frictionless glide that Gateron users have come to love. While the Chiikawa - 45g may appeal to those who prioritize a light touch and auditory feedback, the New North Pole V2 is ideal for users seeking an ultra-smooth and refined typing 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
50g
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
Ink Housing Material
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
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Gateron New North Pole V2 share a common feature in their top housings, both utilizing polycarbonate material. This choice of polycarbonate contributes significantly to the sound profile of the switches, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisp sound upon actuation. The relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate enhances resonance, making the auditory feedback from both switches similar. Moreover, the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting implementation, ensuring that both switches exhibit an aesthetically pleasing glow when illuminated. Therefore, users expecting a bright and clear sound experience will find both switches deliver remarkably similar results due to their shared top housing material.
However, a notable difference arises when we examine the bottom housings of these switches. The Chiikawa - 45g opts for a nylon bottom housing, known for its sound-dampening properties that produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which aligns with its top housing to provide a consistent sharpness in sound. While the nylon in the Chiikawa introduces a softer, rounder feel and a consequent muted sound transition, the polycarbonate in the New North Pole V2 tends to escalate the high frequencies further, reinforcing the overall crispness from both the top and bottom. This divergence in bottom housing material leads to distinct auditory experiences, despite the similarities found in their top housings.
Ultimately, the difference in bottom housing materials illustrates how the individual properties of each can influence the overall key press experience. Users will feel the impact of the softer nylon in the Chiikawa - 45g providing a cushioned bottom-out feel, contrasted with the more pronounced and resonant feedback from the polycarbonate bottom in the New North Pole V2. When actuating the switches, the Chiikawa allows for a smoother sound release due to its nylon base, while the New North Pole V2 maintains its sharp tone throughout the keystroke. Thus, while the top housings converge on a similar auditory profile, the distinct bottom housing materials lead to a uniquely different tactile and acoustic experience for each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Chiikawa switch has a lighter actuation force at 45 grams, compared to the New North Pole V2's slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. This means that for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, especially useful during long typing sessions or gaming marathons, the Chiikawa is the more suitable option. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Chiikawa is 51 grams, which is also lighter than the New North Pole V2's bottom out force of 62.5 grams. Thus, consumers seeking a medium-light switch that could heighten comfort over extended use may gravitate toward the Chiikawa, while those who favor a more substantial typing experience with a firmer feel may prefer the New North Pole V2 due to its heavier forces. Overall, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g is the lighter option in both actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Chiikawa switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option, while the New North Pole V2 has a travel distance of 4 mm, positioning it as the longer switch. This difference in travel distance can influence your typing experience significantly; the shorter 3.6 mm travel of the Chiikawa can offer quicker responsiveness, which is often favored by gamers seeking faster reaction times. Conversely, the longer 4 mm distance of the New North Pole V2 provides a more traditional feel, appealing to those who enjoy a deeper, more deliberate keystroke. Ultimately, your preference will dictate which switch aligns more with your desired typing 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 Gateron New North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the New North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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 known for its bright sound profile, producing a crisp, high-pitched noise that enhances the auditory experience of typing. This characteristic is especially pronounced due to its very light actuation force, making each keystroke feel lively and responsive. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switch, while also designed to provide an improved typing experience, benefits from the absence of a rubber dampener, resulting in a crisper sound when typing. However, it's important to note that the overall sound of a switch can vary based on several factors, including the keyboard frame and keycap materials, which will inevitably influence the final acoustic profile.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 45g is also characterized by its lightness and smoothness, making for a very responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches elevate the experience with an impressive combination of polished, creamy, and frictionless qualities. The polished finish provides a refined typing experience, leading to reduced friction and smooth key travel. The creamy sensation offers a buttery typing experience, making every keystroke feel effortless. Coupled with its frictionless design, users can expect an extremely smooth and fluid typing experience that further enhances overall performance.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switches deliver unique attributes that cater to different typing preferences. While both switches prioritize a light and responsive feel, the Chiikawa focuses more on creating a bright sound profile, whereas the New North Pole V2 enhances the tactile experience with its polished, creamy, and frictionless qualities. Depending on what aspects matter most to you, be it sound or feel, either switch can provide satisfying results, but the nuances in their characteristics will ultimately influence your choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a lighter actuation force and enjoy the crisp, high-pitched sound profile of the Chiikawa switches, this option may be more suited for you, especially if you frequently engage in fast-paced typing or gaming sessions. The responsiveness of the Chiikawa - 45g can enhance your overall experience, making it a great choice for those who prioritize quick key presses and an exhilarating sound. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more robust typing experience with a medium actuation force and appreciate a polished, frictionless feel, the New North Pole V2 may be the better fit. Its refined, creamy texture delivers a smooth and effortless typing sensation, making it ideal for prolonged typing tasks or if you simply prefer a more substantial feel under your fingers. Ultimately, your decision should reflect the characteristics you value most in your keyboard—whether it's the light and lively nature of the Chiikawa or the smooth elegance of the New North Pole V2.
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