Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When diving into the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Outemu Dustproof Black present two intriguing options for users seeking linear switches. The Chiikawa - 45g is celebrated for its remarkably light actuation force and its bright sound profile, offering a crisp, high-pitched auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience and provides tailored responsiveness for fast typists. Its lightweight feel can also be appealing to users who prefer a swifter keystroke, making it an excellent choice for gaming or prolonged typing sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Black, while it may lack a specific distinguishing feature in terms of sound or actuation, generally offers a sturdier build that appeals to those worried about dust and durability. Such switch could be favored by individuals seeking a more robust typing experience without the noise factor that comes with switches like the Chiikawa. Both options provide unique benefits tailored to different preferences; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
60g
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
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Outemu Dustproof Black share a significant similarity in their top housing construction, as both are crafted from polycarbonate. This choice of material bestows upon each switch a distinctive sound profile characterized by higher pitches and a sharper clarity. Due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, both switches exhibit a resonant quality that enhances the overall auditory experience when typing. Additionally, the translucence of polycarbonate allows for vibrant RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic dimension that is especially appealing for users who prioritize visual flair in their keyboard configurations. As such, users can expect a comparable sound experience from both switches, specifically in terms of the crispness and high-pitched clarity generated by the top housing.
Conversely, the bottom housings of the Chiikawa - 45g and Outemu Dustproof Black diverge in that they both utilize nylon, which influences the overall feel and sound profile of the switches. With its softer composition, nylon absorbs sound more effectively, leading to a deeper and fuller typing experience. This characteristic creates a contrast to the sharpness of the polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sound profile that benefits from a rounded, subdued resonance when bottoming out. Both switches, therefore, produce a unique blend of auditory sensations as the nylon bottom contributes significantly to the deeper tones heard during key presses, while the polycarbonate material accentuates the sound produced when releasing the key.
When taken together, the combination of polycarbonate tops and nylon bottoms in both the Chiikawa - 45g and Outemu Dustproof Black results in a balanced audio experience that showcases the strengths of each material. Users will notice clarity and brightness during key release due to the polycarbonate top housing, coupled with a rounded, full-bodied sound when bottoming out, courtesy of the nylon bottom. The result is a well-rounded typing experience that exemplifies the best qualities of both housing materials, whether for gaming or typing purposes. Thus, even with the differences in bottom housing, the overall auditory and tactile experience remains coherent and enjoyable across both switch varieties.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch to the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, we see a distinct difference in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Chiikawa switch features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams, making it a medium-light option that is ideal for prolonged typing sessions or gaming without causing excessive fatigue. In contrast, the Dustproof Black switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, which caters to users who prefer a more substantial push feel during their typing experience. As a result, the Chiikawa is the lighter switch, while the Dustproof Black is the heavier option. This means that those opting for the lighter Chiikawa switch may enjoy greater comfort over extended use, while those choosing the heavier Dustproof Black can benefit from a more pronounced tactile experience. Overall, these differences allow users to select a switch that best fits their typing preferences and habits.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, the Chiikawa has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dustproof Black features a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Chiikawa offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times and a more immediate feel. Conversely, the Dustproof Black provides a longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more substantial and deliberate keypress experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on personal preference; those who enjoy a quick response may gravitate towards the Chiikawa, while those appreciating a more pronounced depth might favor the Dustproof Black.
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 Outemu Dustproof Black comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 Chiikawa - 45g linear switch is known for its bright, high-pitched sound profile that many users find enjoyable and engaging while typing. This crisp auditory feedback can create a satisfying typing experience, making each keystroke feel lively. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch lacks any specific sound qualities that set it apart, leaving its auditory performance somewhat ambiguous. However, it's important to note that the sound of any switch can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, which means both switches can potentially offer varying auditory experiences based on the overall setup.
When considering feel, the Chiikawa - 45g is distinguished by its very light actuation force, making it feel particularly responsive and easy to type on, ideal for those who prefer a lightweight switch. This characteristic can lead to quick typing and minimal finger fatigue during extended use. In contrast, the feel of the Dustproof Black linear switch is not explicitly described, leaving its tactile characteristics unknown. This lack of information means that users interested in the Dustproof Black may need to try it out themselves to assess its feel and whether it meets their typing preferences.
In conclusion, while the Chiikawa - 45g linear switch offers a well-defined bright sound and a very light feel perfect for responsive typing, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch presents an unknown auditory and tactile experience. For those looking for a clear and lively sound along with a light touch, the Chiikawa may be a better choice. However, if you're open to exploring switches and are curious about the Outemu Dustproof Black, you might still discover a quality typing experience for your needs. Both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Chiikawa clearly standing out in terms of known attributes.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended usage. If you prefer a responsive switch with a lighter actuation force and enjoy a bright, crisp sound while typing, the Chiikawa - 45g is an excellent option. Its medium-light bottom out force of 51 grams allows for quick keystrokes, making it suitable for fast typists or gamers who value speed and agility. On the other hand, if you favor a more substantial feel with a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, the Dustproof Black may be your ideal choice. While it lacks the notable sound profile of the Chiikawa, its robustness can provide a solid typing experience for those who enjoy a more deliberate keypress and prefer a switch that demands a bit more effort. Therefore, consider your typing style, the sound characteristics you prefer, and how much resistance you want while typing to make the best switch choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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