Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Outemu Milk Blue 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 Milk Blue offers distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Chiikawa - 45g, a linear switch, is celebrated for its incredibly light actuation force of 45 grams, resulting in swift and responsive keystrokes that are perfect for fast typists. Its bright sound profile delivers a crisp, high-pitched audio feedback that can make typing feel more engaging. In contrast, the Outemu Milk Blue is a clicky switch that caters to those who enjoy tactile feedback and an auditory response with each keystroke. Its notable click sound is often favored by typists who appreciate an audible confirmation of their input. While the Chiikawa - 45g is ideal for users seeking speed and quiet operation, the Milk Blue appeals to enthusiasts who enjoy the satisfying "click" and tactile sensation during their typing experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Outemu Milk Blue, it's evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings and nylon for their bottom housings, resulting in a strikingly similar auditory and tactile experience. The choice of polycarbonate for the top housing in both switches is pivotal, as it contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate’s stiffer nature, which enhances resonance and clarity when typing. Furthermore, both switches benefit aesthetically from the translucency of polycarbonate, making them ideal choices for users who seek to incorporate RGB lighting into their setups. Thus, users can expect a similar sound output and visual appeal when using either switch.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of both the Chiikawa - 45g and Outemu Milk Blue is constructed from nylon, which distinguishes their sound profiles from typical switches with metallic or harder plastic components. Nylon, being a softer material, absorbs more sound, which produces a deeper and fuller auditory experience during typing. This contrasts noticeably with the sound produced by the polycarbonate top, leading to a unique combination of sound characteristics. Since both switches employ nylon in their bottom housings, users will experience that same enhanced depth and muted roundness in the overall sound profile, contributing to a more satisfying typing experience.
While the materials used in the housings of both switches are the same, their individual characteristics delineate how they influence the overall typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing is essential in creating clarity and brightness during keystrokes, impacting the sound when releasing a key, whereas the nylon bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, despite possessing fundamentally different acoustic properties, the combination of these materials in both the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Outemu Milk Blue guarantees users a harmonious balance of clarity and depth, confirming their effectiveness in producing a well-rounded typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch to the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, we see distinct differences in actuation forces. The Chiikawa switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is relatively medium-light, making it easier on the fingers for longer typing sessions. In contrast, the Milk Blue switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. The bottom out force for the Chiikawa is 51 grams, indicating that it provides a bit of resistance when the key is fully pressed down. On the other hand, the bottom out force for the Milk Blue switch is unspecified. As a result, while the Chiikawa is the lighter option suitable for those who type for extended periods, the Milk Blue is heavier, potentially offering more feedback for typists who enjoy a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, there is a clear distinction: the Chiikawa features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Milk Blue has a longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This difference of 0.4 mm highlights the Milk Blue's traditional design, providing a more pronounced and hearty depth during keystrokes, which some users may find more satisfying. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Chiikawa may appeal to gamers seeking quicker responsiveness, as it allows for faster actuation, making it ideal for rapid-key presses. Therefore, if you value speed and responsiveness, the Chiikawa is the better option, while the Milk Blue may suit those who prefer a more tactile and traditional typing 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 Milk Blue 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
When it comes to sound, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch is widely recognized for its bright sound profile and crisp, high-pitched auditory feedback, which can make typing feel lively and engaging. The light actuation force also contributes to a quick response, enhancing the overall sound experience as you type. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue switch, while not specifically described in the provided information, is known to have a clicky sound characteristic typical of many clicky switches. The auditory feedback from the Milk Blue would likely be more pronounced, with a distinct 'click' that provides satisfying acoustic confirmation of each keystroke. It's important to note, however, that the overall sound experience can vary greatly depending on the keyboard construction and keycap material paired with each switch.
In terms of feel, the Chiikawa - 45g linear switch offers a very light actuation force, resulting in a gentle, responsive typing experience that can be quite effortless. This makes it particularly appealing for rapid typing or gaming where quick input is essential. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Milk Blue switch would typically be associated with a more tactile response due to its clicky nature. Many users find clicky switches like the Milk Blue to provide satisfying feedback that helps with typing accuracy, though it generally requires a bit more force to actuate compared to a linear switch. Given these distinctions, the Chiikawa would likely feel smoother and more fluid, while the Milk Blue offers a more tactile and audible engagement.
Overall, both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch is ideal for those who appreciate a lightweight, responsive feel combined with a bright sound signature, while the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch appeals to users seeking distinct auditory feedback and tactile sensation. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound and smoothness with the Chiikawa or the tactile response and clicky noise of the Milk Blue.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, your decision should primarily depend on your typing preferences and the kind of experience you desire. If you prefer a switch with a lighter actuation force that provides a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke with a bright sound profile, the Chiikawa - 45g is an excellent choice. It's ideal for those who enjoy a responsive feel while typing, making it suitable for fast-paced typing or gaming. Conversely, if you appreciate the tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction of a clicky switch, the Outemu Milk Blue is the way to go. Although I noted a lack of specifications for the sound profile of the Milk Blue, its typical characteristics include a more pronounced click that can enhance the typing experience, especially if you enjoy a retro or mechanical ambiance. Consider your typing habits and preferences carefully; whether you lean towards the light and smoothness of the Chiikawa or the pronounced tactile feedback of the Milk Blue will greatly influence your keyboard experience.
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