Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean both present unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Chiikawa - 45g is celebrated for its light actuation force and bright sound profile, offering typists a responsive experience with a crisp, high-pitched sound, perfect for those who enjoy an engaging auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch focuses on a quieter typing experience, designed to minimize noise without compromising on the smooth performance typically expected from linear switches. Choosing the Chiikawa may be ideal for those who relish a lively and tactile typing experience, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean serves well for users seeking discretion and a more subtle keystroke. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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 Silent Ocean both feature polycarbonate top housings, which play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound profile of the switches. The use of polycarbonate in these housings results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, largely due to the material's stiffness. Both switches benefit from this common trait, which not only enhances clarity and resonance but also provides aesthetic advantages. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant RGB lighting to shine through, making both switches visually appealing when illuminated. Therefore, users can expect a similarly bright and responsive sound experience from both models as a result of their shared top housing material.
In terms of their bottom housings, both the Chiikawa - 45g and Dustproof Silent Ocean utilize nylon, a classic material that induces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Unlike the polycarbonate top, nylon's softer composition absorbs sound more effectively, leading to a duller and rounder sound experience when typing. This duality in material characteristics plays a significant role in how these switches perform. While the top housing contributes to the clarity and brightness of the sound, the nylon bottom housing helps to ground the auditory experience by providing a warmer sound profile. As a result, although both switches share the same bottom housing material, the overall sound produced will still reflect unique properties dictated by the interaction of both housings.
When comparing the overall sound experience of each switch, it becomes evident that they leverage the strengths of their respective materials to create a complementary auditory profile. With both models utilizing polycarbonate and nylon, users can expect a cohesive blend of sharper highs and deeper lows. The crispness from the top housing will meld with the warmth from the bottom, producing a balanced sound profile. Thus, even if the designs and features differ, the similar construction means that the Chiikawa - 45g and Dustproof Silent Ocean will yield comparable outcomes in terms of sound clarity and depth, making them attractive options for users who appreciate both aesthetics and performance.
Weight
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch both feature an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equivalent in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. This similarity suggests that users will experience a comparable level of ease during typing or gaming sessions. However, their bottom out forces contrast significantly, with the Chiikawa switch bottoming out at 51 grams, deemed medium-light, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean's bottom out force is measured at 65 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. Consequently, the Chiikawa switch is the lighter option overall, providing a softer typing experience which may be preferable for those looking for longer typing durations or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, the heftier bottom out force of the Dustproof Silent Ocean may cater to users who enjoy a more substantial feel during key presses, thus enhancing their tactile experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, the Chiikawa features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Silent Ocean measures slightly shorter at 3.3 mm. This means that if you’re looking for a more responsive feel, the shorter travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean might be the better choice, appealing especially to gamers who benefit from quicker response times. Conversely, the Chiikawa's 3.6 mm travel distance could provide a more substantial and satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a deeper feel, making it more suited for users who enjoy a bit more heft in their typing experience. Overall, those selecting between these two switches will find that the difference in travel distance offers distinct tactile experiences to match their preferences.
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 Silent Ocean 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 characterized by a bright sound profile that offers a crisp, high-pitched sound when typing. This acoustics adds a lively character to the typing experience, making it appealing to users who enjoy an audible feedback. On the other hand, while specific details about the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch are not provided, it is inherently designed to be silent and dustproof, suggesting that it will produce a much quieter typing experience, making it an excellent choice for those in noise-sensitive environments.
When examining their feel, the Chiikawa - 45g linear switch features a very light actuation force, which translates to a responsive and effortless typing experience. Users will likely find typing with this switch to be smooth and enjoyable, with a pronounced lack of resistance. In contrast, there is no specific feel description available for the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch, making it challenging to compare their tactile sensations directly. However, the silent nature of the switch may imply a smoother and less tactile response, likely appealing to users who favor a more subdued typing experience.
In conclusion, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch stands out with its bright sound profile and light touch, making it ideal for those who appreciate auditory feedback and responsiveness. Conversely, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch, while not described in detail, offers a quiet performance, potentially catering to users prioritizing discretion in their typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding sound and feel, as both can deliver enjoyable typing experiences albeit in different ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a responsive typing experience with a lighter actuation force and appreciate the crisp sounds that characterize the Chiikawa switches, then they should be your go-to option. They work well for typists who prefer a more lively keystroke and thrive in a setting where auditory feedback is both acceptable and enjoyable. On the other hand, if you seek a more substantial tactile feedback with a heavier bottom out force and intend to use your keyboard in quieter environments—where sound can be disruptive—the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch is your best bet. Its medium-heavy actuation can provide more control during typing, and while it doesn’t emphasize a particular sound profile, it is well-suited for those craving a quieter experience. Ultimately, consider your typing style, your workspace environment, and the sensory feedback you value most when making your decision.
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