Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often weigh their options carefully, and two popular choices that exemplify this consideration are the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Outemu Lotus, both of which are linear switches. The Chiikawa - 45g stands out for its very light actuation force and bright sound profile, delivering a responsive typing experience complemented by a crisp, high-pitched sound. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer quick, delicate keystrokes and enjoy an audible feedback without the tactile bump. In contrast, while specific characteristics of the Outemu Lotus are not highlighted, it typically represents a more balanced or versatile option suitable for various typing styles, potentially appealing to users looking for a blend of functionality and comfort. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding actuation force and sound profile. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g switch and the Outemu Lotus switch, significant differences emerge, particularly in their top housings. The Chiikawa - 45g utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its rigidity and translucid properties. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer composition, ultimately enhancing the clarity and resonance when the switch is activated. Additionally, polycarbonate's transparency makes it ideal for RGB lighting applications, allowing for visually striking keycap effects. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus features a nylon top housing, which, while classified as a classic switch material, tends to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. As a softer plastic, nylon absorbs sound more efficiently, resulting in a sound that is characterized as duller and rounder compared to its polycarbonate counterpart.
Despite the differences in their top housings, both the Chiikawa - 45g and the Outemu Lotus switches share a commonality in their bottom housings, as both utilize nylon material. This creates a unique situation where the sound profile for both switches can be somewhat similar due to the influence of the nylon bottom housing. Regardless of the distinct top housing materials, both switches will exhibit characteristics associated with nylon—providing a deeper and fuller sound experience when bottoming out. It is evident that the bottom housing plays a vital role in how the switches feel and sound during key press, and since both switches employ nylon at this level, users can expect a level of auditory richness from both.
In summary, while the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and Outemu Lotus switches differ in their top housing materials—with polycarbonate offering a sharper sound profile and nylon providing a duller one—the similarity in their nylon bottom housings can unify their performance, particularly in terms of bottoming out. This results in a hybrid sound experience: users will perceive the Chiikawa as brighter upon release due to its polycarbonate top, while the Lotus's nylon top provides a warmth that enhances its overall sound signature. Ultimately, the contrasting top materials will define the overall auditory experience, but the consistent nylon bottom housing means both switches can achieve enjoyable results.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces, while their bottom out forces are relatively similar. The Chiikawa requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, whereas the Lotus is lighter at 35 grams, making it a better fit for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience ideal for prolonged usage, such as office work or extended gaming sessions. In terms of bottom out forces, the Chiikawa is slightly firmer at 51 grams compared to the Lotus, which bottoms out at 50 grams. This means that although the Chiikawa offers a more substantial feel when fully pressed down, the Lotus provides a lighter touch throughout the keystroke, appealing to those who favor a softer typing action. Overall, if users are seeking a lighter switch, the Outemu Lotus will likely provide the experience they desire, while the Chiikawa is better suited for those who appreciate a more defined pushback with a higher actuation force.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch differ, with the Chiikawa at 3.6 mm and the Lotus at 3.3 mm. This makes the Outemu Lotus the shorter switch of the two, providing a more rapid response time suitable for gamers who favor quicker key presses. In contrast, the Chiikawa's longer travel distance of 3.6 mm may offer a more satisfying tactile experience for those who prefer a deeper feel when typing. While both switches offer relatively shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, the Chiikawa is better suited for users who enjoy a little more depth, whereas the Lotus caters to those who prioritize speed and responsiveness in their gaming experience.
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 Lotus 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 its bright sound profile, resulting in a crisp, high-pitched noise when typing. This auditory quality enhances the overall typing experience, making it feel more responsive and engaging. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus linear switch does not have any specific sound qualities listed, which may imply a more neutral or undefined sound. However, it is important to keep in mind that the sound output of any switch can be influenced by the choice of keyboard board and keycaps, meaning that while the Chiikawa has a distinctive sound, the Lotus may still produce a pleasant auditory experience depending on the individual setup.
When considering the feel of these switches, the Chiikawa - 45g features a very light actuation force, which contributes to a responsive and quick typing experience. This lightness can be ideal for users who prefer a less strenuous key press, allowing for rapid input without fatigue. In contrast, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the Outemu Lotus switch. Therefore, potential users may need to explore user reviews or test the switch in person to better understand its tactile feedback and performance.
In conclusion, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch stands out with its bright sound profile and light actuation force, making it an appealing choice for users who enjoy a lively and responsive typing experience. The Outemu Lotus linear switch lacks specific known qualities in both sound and feel, leaving some uncertainty in its performance. Ultimately, if you lean towards a lively auditory experience, the Chiikawa is a clear choice, while the Lotus may require further exploration to gauge its suitability for your personal preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch will largely depend on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch that is responsive and provides a tactile experience with a bright, crisp sound profile, the Chiikawa - 45g would be the better option for you. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 51 grams and very light actuation force make it suitable for both fast typists and gamers who want swift, fluid keystrokes without straining their fingers. On the other hand, if you're looking for something with a gentler touch and a slightly lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams, the Outemu Lotus might be more to your liking, especially if you value a quieter typing experience and a smooth feel without the auditory distractions. In the end, consider trying both switches if possible, as the right choice ultimately boils down to what feels more comfortable and enjoyable for your individual needs.
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