Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Haimu Orange Sea

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Haimu Orange Sea stand out as excellent linear options, each bringing its distinct characteristics to the table. The Chiikawa - 45g is celebrated for its light actuation force, making it highly responsive and ideal for typists who prefer a quick, nimble feel. Its bright sound profile adds an engaging auditory element, delivering a crisp, high-pitched sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea offers an impeccably smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature, allowing for a more understated auditory presence that many users find appealing for both work and gaming. While the Chiikawa is perfect for those who thrive on feedback and sound, the Orange Sea caters to users who seek a refined, silent touch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.

By the numbers

Bsun Chiikawa - 45g Linear

Haimu Orange Sea Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$2.79 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Haimu Orange Sea switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which significantly influence their acoustic performance. The polycarbonate material is known for its rigidity, contributing to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is particularly advantageous for users seeking a pronounced auditory feedback with their keystrokes. Both switches exhibit this characteristic due to their identical top housing materials, and, therefore, users can expect similar results when it comes to sound clarity and resonance, especially when using RGB lighting. The translucency of the polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal and luminosity of the light emitted from the switches, creating an appealing visual experience.

In contrast, the bottom housings of the Chiikawa - 45g and the Haimu Orange Sea utilize nylon, a classic material known for its softer acoustic properties. The nylon used in the bottom housing absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This property creates a more subdued auditory feedback compared to the crispness provided by the polycarbonate tops. Since the bottom housing has a substantial impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, both models will share this characteristic, providing users with an overall consistent tactile experience despite differences in the perceived sound dynamics when pressing down on a key.

When analyzing the combined effects of the top and bottom housing materials in these switches, it becomes clear that users will appreciate a harmonious balance of sound and feel. While the polycarbonate top endows both models with a bright, clear sound when releasing the key, the nylon bottom contributes a more muted and rounded sound when bottoming out. This cohesive interplay between the two materials allows for a unique typing experience; users will enjoy the combined effects of a sharp release sound and a satisfying depth upon press. As both switches share the same materials for the top and bottom housings, enthusiasts can anticipate a powerful, nuanced typing experience from either switch while embracing the attributes specific to each material.

Weight

When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Chiikawa - 45g features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea boasts a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it feel lighter overall. This distinction means typists who prefer a softer touch will find the Orange Sea more conducive for extended typing sessions or gaming, while those who appreciate a more definitive push can opt for the Chiikawa. However, despite these differences, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, and users can expect a notable feedback from the Chiikawa’s heavier actuation and bottoming out force compared to the lighter response of the Orange Sea. Ultimately, the choice depends on individual preferences regarding the feel and weight of the switch during use.

Travel distance

The travel distance of both the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch is identical, with each totaling 3.6 mm. This means that users of either switch will experience the same amount of travel when pressing a key, resulting in similar tactile feedback and responsiveness. Therefore, if you're looking for a consistent feel in your keystrokes, both switches will provide that due to their equal travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch is characterized by its bright sound profile, producing a crisp, high-pitched noise when typing. This makes it notable for users who enjoy auditory feedback while they work. On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea switch features a neutral sound signature, offering a more muted auditory experience that may appeal to those who prefer a quieter typing environment. It’s important to note that the sound produced by any switch can be influenced by the type of keyboard and keycaps used, so some variations may occur.

When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 45g's very light actuation force makes for an engaging typing experience that feels responsive and effortless. This switch is ideal for fast typists or those who enjoy a smoother press without much resistance. In contrast, the Orange Sea provides an impeccably smooth typing feel but also incorporates some tactile elements. While it doesn’t fall into the “hypertactile” category, it does offer a medium level of tactility that is described as both invigorating and accented, delivering satisfying feedback without being overwhelming.

In conclusion, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and Haimu Orange Sea switches each present distinct subjective qualities that cater to different preferences. For users who favor a bright sound and very light feel, the Chiikawa is a strong contender. Conversely, those who prioritize a smooth typing experience with a neutral sound might gravitate towards the Orange Sea. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on whether you value auditory feedback or tactile response more in your mechanical keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch will largely depend on your personal typing preferences and what you value most in a mechanical keyboard experience. If you appreciate a lighter touch with a more pronounced and engaging sound profile, the Chiikawa - 45g might be the better fit for you. Its medium-light actuation force and crisp, high-pitched sound make it particularly responsive, which can enhance your typing experience, especially if you enjoy a more tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer an exceptionally smooth feel with a neutral sound that doesn't draw too much attention, the Orange Sea switch could be your ideal choice. With its lighter bottom out force and accented feedback, the Orange Sea provides a balanced typing experience that is not overly tactile while still being invigorating. Ultimately, consider what aspects of sound and feel matter most to you as you make your decision.

Mentioned in this article

Bsun Chiikawa - 45g Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Haimu Orange Sea Linear

$2.79 per 10

Learn more