Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Cherry Nixie both offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Chiikawa - 45g is celebrated for its light actuation force and bright sound profile, making each keystroke feel remarkably responsive and adding a cheerful, high-pitched sound to your typing rhythm. This switch is an excellent choice for users who enjoy a swift and agile typing experience, perfect for fast-paced gaming or extensive writing sessions. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie appeals to those who favor a more substantial feel and a textured typing experience, boasting a 'thocky' sound that is low-pitched and resonant. With the enhanced materials and springs from Cherry's MX2A update, these switches cater to those who appreciate a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern performance. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on your typing style and sound preferences; 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Cherry Nixie, there is a clear distinction between the top housings, while both switches share the same material for their bottom housings. The Chiikawa - 45g features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer composition. This characteristic can significantly enhance the switch's sound clarity, making it particularly attractive for users interested in a more pronounced auditory feedback, especially when paired with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie employs a nylon top housing, which is renowned for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This difference in sound profile results from nylon's softness, which absorbs sound better, thus contributing to a more rounded auditory experience.
Both switches feature nylon for their bottom housing, which contributes similar characteristics to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The identical nylon material used in the bottom housing of both the Chiikawa - 45g and the Nixie means users can expect a consistent typing experience regarding the impact and damping of sound. The softness of nylon will induce a deeper and fuller sound profile regardless of the top housing material while also impacting the bottom-out sound quality and tactile feedback. Consequently, even though the top housing materials differ, the similarity in the bottom housing ensures a shared auditory foundation for both switches.
In conclusion, while the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Cherry Nixie switches utilize different materials in their top housings, the presence of nylon in both bottom housings unifies their performance regarding sound depth and tactile feedback. Users looking for crisp, high-pitched auditory feedback may gravitate towards the Chiikawa due to its polycarbonate top, whereas those who prefer a fuller sound profile might lean towards the Nixie with its nylon top. Ultimately, this contrast between the top materials, combined with the shared characteristics of nylon at the bottom, means users will experience distinct typing sounds and feedback, yet will maintain some consistent auditory qualities due to the nylon foundation inherent in both switches.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch to the Cherry Nixie linear switch, a distinct difference in actuation and bottom out forces emerges. The Chiikawa switch features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams, categorizing it as medium-light and making it ideal for those who prefer less fatigue during prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie switch requires a significantly heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, appealing to users who favor a more substantial and tactile typing experience. This means that the Chiikawa switch is lighter overall, making it easier on the fingers during extended use, whereas the Nixie switch, with its heavier forces, offers a firmer feel when bottoming out. Thus, while both switches serve different user preferences, the clear differentiation in their actuation and bottom out forces allows potential users to make a choice based on whether they prioritize lightness or weight in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The Chiikawa - 45g features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Cherry Nixie has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is more traditional and provides a greater depth. This difference suggests that the Chiikawa may offer a quicker response time, potentially appealing to gamers who favor shorter travel distances for enhanced responsiveness. Conversely, the Nixie's longer travel distance provides a more substantial downward feel, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference regarding key depth and responsiveness.
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 Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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 switch produces a bright and crisp high-pitched tone, which lends itself to a lively typing experience. This vibrant sound can be particularly satisfying for users who enjoy an audible response from their switches, as it accentuates the actuation in a way that feels energizing. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie switch emits a deeper, thocky sound that provides a rich and satisfying auditory feedback. The low-pitched nature of the Nixie gives it a calming and grounded character, creating a stark difference from the Chiikawa’s more exuberant brightness. Note, however, that the final sound produced can vary significantly based on the keyboard build and keycap choice, meaning both switches can be tweaked for different acoustic outcomes.
In terms of feel, the Chiikawa - 45g switch features a very light actuation force, making it incredibly responsive to the slightest touch. This quality allows for quick typing and potentially reduces fatigue over long periods, as users don’t have to exert much effort to register a keystroke. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie switch is characterized by a textured experience that provides noticeable friction with each key press. This textured feedback can be a point of preference, as some individuals appreciate the tactile sensation while typing, whereas others may prefer a smoother experience. The Chiikawa's lightness and quick activation contrast the Nixie’s more substantial, textured presence under the fingers.
In summary, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and Cherry Nixie linear switches cater to different typing preferences through their distinctive sound and feel profiles. The Chiikawa’s bright, high-pitched sounds and lightweight actuation force make it perfect for those seeking a responsive and lively typing experience. Meanwhile, the Nixie's deep, thocky sound combined with its textured feedback appeals to users who enjoy a more grounded and tactile interaction. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to personal preference, as each offers unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience in different ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the type of experience you seek. If you gravitate towards a lighter, more responsive feel with a bright, high-pitched sound, the Chiikawa - 45g would likely be your go-to choice. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy rapid typing or gaming scenarios where quick actuation is key. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial, textured typing experience with a deep, thocky sound profile, the Cherry Nixie is the better option. This switch is particularly suited for users who appreciate a heavier actuation force and a tactile sensation that provides feedback with each keystroke. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal typing style and sound preference, ensuring that your keyboard experience is both enjoyable and efficient.
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