Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Outemu Dustproof Purple can significantly impact your typing experience. The Chiikawa - 45g is a linear switch that stands out for its light actuation force and bright sound profile, offering a remarkably responsive typing experience coupled with a crisp and high-pitched auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple, classified as a tactile switch, is designed to provide a different tactile experience, allowing users to feel a noticeable bump at the actuation point, which can enhance typing accuracy and offer satisfying feedback. While the Chiikawa may appeal to those who favor speed and smoothness in their keystrokes, the Dustproof Purple could be the ideal choice for typists who appreciate the tactile sensation of each keypress. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best determine which switch is the right fit for your unique typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
65g
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 housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Outemu Dustproof Purple demonstrate a fascinating similarity in their top housing construction, both utilizing polycarbonate. This shared material contributes to a crispier and sharper sound profile due to polycarbonate's inherent stiffness. Consequently, both switches are likely to deliver a clear and resonant audio experience that leverages the advantages of this plastic. Aesthetically, the translucence of the polycarbonate allows for effective diffusion of RGB lighting, ensuring vibrant illumination whether you're gaming or typing. This compatibility enhances visual designs for users who prioritize RGB integration in their mechanical keyboards.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both switches is made from nylon, a classic choice that provides a distinctly different auditory experience from the polycarbonate top. The nylon's softer composition leads to a deeper, fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and resulting in a rounder and more muted keypress overall. This disparity means that while both switches can produce bright sounds upon key release due to their polycarbonate tops, the bottom-out experience—when the key is fully pressed down—will be influenced significantly by the nylon base. As a result, both switches offer users a beautiful marriage of sound characteristics that complement each other, creating an engaging typing experience.
In sum, although the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and Outemu Dustproof Purple have different materials in their bottom housings, the similarities found in their top housings lead to comparable sound profiles upon release. Users can expect a higher-pitched, sharper sound from both switches due to the polycarbonate tops, while the nylon bottoms will provide a satisfying depth and fullness when the keys bottom out. This thoughtful combination ultimately results in a balanced performance that caters to users seeking responsive feedback and rich auditory pleasure, regardless of which switch they choose.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch, there are notable differences 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 ideal for users who prioritize comfort during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Dustproof Purple switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as a medium-heavy switch that provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger key feel. Consequently, the Chiikawa switch is the lighter option, while the Outemu Dustproof Purple is the heavier one, making it better suited for users who enjoy a firmer push. Ultimately, those looking for a switch that allows for longer typing without fatigue may lean towards the Chiikawa, while those appreciating a heavier tactile response might favor the Outemu.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch, it becomes evident that they cater to different preferences. The Chiikawa switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Purple boasts a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Chiikawa switch the shorter option, which is ideal for those seeking a more responsive keystroke, often preferred by gamers for quicker response times. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Dustproof Purple switch provides a more pronounced tactile feedback, appealing to users who enjoy a sense of depth in their typing experience. Therefore, if you favor a swift and responsive feel, the Chiikawa would be the better choice; however, if you appreciate a more substantial keystroke, the Outemu Dustproof Purple would be preferable.
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 Purple 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 Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch is recognized for its bright sound profile that offers a crisp, high-pitched tone when typing. This aspect contributes to an engaging auditory experience that many users find enjoyable, especially in a fast-paced typing environment. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch does not have a specified sound quality associated with it, making it difficult to make a direct comparison. However, keep in mind that the overall sound of any switch can be influenced by the choice of keyboard plate, case, and keycaps used, leading to a potentially unique auditory experience regardless of the switch's inherent characteristics.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 45g is best known for its very light actuation force, which translates to a responsive typing experience that can be particularly appealing for users who appreciate quick key presses with minimal resistance. This can make extended periods of typing less fatiguing. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch lacks detailed descriptions of its feel, leaving room for speculation on how it compares in terms of resistance, feedback, or overall typing experience. As with sound, personal preference will heavily influence how each individual responds to the tactile qualities of a switch.
Overall, those opting for the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch can anticipate a bright sound coupled with a light touch, suitable for fast typing and casual gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Purple provides an uncertain feel and no sound profile, making it less easy to evaluate. For newcomers, these distinctions highlight the importance of personal preference in choosing a switch. While the Chiikawa offers a clear advantage in terms of sound and feel, the unknown qualities of the Dustproof Purple suggest that experimenting with different switches is crucial to finding the one that best suits individual typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple tactile switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you favor a lighter touch for quick and responsive keystrokes, the Chiikawa - 45g is an excellent choice, thanks to its medium-light bottom-out force of 51 grams and its bright sound profile that can add an engaging auditory element to your typing experience. This switch is particularly suited for fast typists or gamers who benefit from its crisp actuation and smooth linear feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial response with a tactile bump at the actuation point, the Outemu Dustproof Purple with its medium-heavy 65-gram bottom-out force might be the better option. This switch offers a more pronounced feedback that can enhance your typing enjoyment, especially for those who appreciate the tactile sensation while typing. If you're in a dust-prone environment, the Dustproof Purple's protective features add further value, ensuring longevity and reliability. Ultimately, your final decision should reflect whether you prioritize speed and lightness or a tactile feedback experience in your mechanical keyboard setup.
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