Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the KTT Pine offer distinct yet appealing experiences for typists and gamers alike. The Chiikawa - 45g, known for its light actuation force and bright sound profile, allows for rapid keystrokes and a crisp, high-pitched sound that can enhance the tactile experience, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize speed and a perky auditory feedback. In contrast, the KTT Pine delivers a heavier, buttery smooth typing experience characterized by its low-pitched, bassy sound, thanks to its polished and factory-lubed finish, which minimizes friction and provides effortless key travel. This makes the Pine an attractive option for users who prefer a more substantial feel and a satisfying, creamy sound profile while typing. Both switches have unique qualities that cater to different preferences, whether you seek a nimble and lively feel or a robust and smooth 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
45g
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the KTT Pine switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which ensure that users can expect similar auditory experiences from these two models. The sound characteristic is defined by polycarbonate's stiffer nature, which promotes a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This quality is particularly noticeable when the key is released, as the top housing resonates with clarity and brightness. Furthermore, the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for beautiful RGB lighting effects, making both switches excellent choices for aesthetics as well as performance. Therefore, in terms of sound output and visual appeal, the top housing of both switches yields comparable results.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the switches differ significantly, which affects their overall sound profile and tactile feel. The Chiikawa - 45g utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for its softer composition, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. This quality allows for a more pronounced bottom-out sound, making it ideal for users who prefer a subtler, rounder auditory experience during keypresses. On the other hand, the KTT Pine also features a polycarbonate bottom housing, echoing the sharper sound characteristics found in its top housing. The reliance on polycarbonate in both housing types means that while the Pine will maintain a more consistent sound profile across the switch, the Chiikawa will offer contrast through its nylon material, thereby creating a more varied soundscape.
Ultimately, the differences in bottom housing materials lead to distinct tactile and auditory experiences, while the similarities in top housing ensure a crystal-clear sound when keys are released. If a user presses down on the Chiikawa, they will notice the fuller sound stemming from its nylon bottom, whereas the Pine will deliver a more immediate high-pitched response due to the polycarbonate. Therefore, while users can expect some shared characteristics in terms of crispness and lighting with the top housings, the overall experience will hinge on their choice of bottom housing, which tailors the sound and feel to their personal preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, we find that both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, which allows for a similar typing experience when it comes to triggering keystrokes. However, their bottom out forces differ: the Chiikawa switch has a bottom out force of 51 grams, while the Pine switch has a heavier bottom out force of 58 grams. This means that while both switches are equally responsive initially, the Pine offers a more substantial resistance when fully pressed down, catering to users who prefer a firmer feel during typing. Consequently, the Chiikawa switch is the lighter option overall, appealing to those who may favor longer typing sessions without fatigue, while the heavier Pine switch may be more suited to individuals who enjoy a more tactile and robust typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The Chiikawa - 45g has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which makes it a shorter option, while the KTT Pine features a travel distance of 4 mm, categorizing it as the longer switch. This difference might appeal to different preferences: gamers, for instance, may favor the Chiikawa's shorter travel for its quicker response times, while others who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke might opt for the Pine switch due to its longer travel distance. Therefore, if you're seeking a more responsive experience, the Chiikawa may be the better choice, whereas if you enjoy a deeper typing depth, the Pine would likely suit your taste.
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 KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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 delivers a notably bright sound profile that results in a crisp, high-pitched sound upon activation. This makes typing feel responsive and lively, which can be particularly enjoyable for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch offers a deeper and richer sound profile that is bassy and low-pitched. This gives a more mellow tone to the typing experience, contrasting with the Chiikawa's higher frequencies. Ultimately, while the Chiikawa’s sound is sharp and clear, the Pine provides a warmer, fuller acoustic experience. Both sound profiles will be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard case and keycaps, so personal preference and setup will play significant roles.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 45g is known for its very light actuation force, allowing for an incredibly responsive typing experience that can feel somewhat snappy. While specific feel descriptors are not provided, we can infer that this switch might be oriented toward a more agile typing experience. Conversely, the KTT Pine linear switch is celebrated for its buttery and creamy feel, resulting from a polished, factory-lubed finish that minimizes friction. This ensures smooth key travel and a seamless typing sensation, making each keystroke feel effortless and enjoyable. In summary, the Chiikawa likely emphasizes quick tactility, while the Pine focuses on a smooth, luxurious typing experience.
Taking all of these attributes into account, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the KTT Pine linear switches cater to different desired qualities in typing. The Chiikawa's bright sound and light feel appeal to those seeking a responsive setup, while the Pine's bassy tones and creamy, smooth action are ideal for users who prioritize a sublime typing experience. Choosing between the two will ultimately depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as each switch offers unique characteristics that can greatly enhance the typing experience on a mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and the kind of experience you are looking for. If you favor a lighter actuation force and are drawn to a bright, crisp sound profile that provides quick responsiveness, the Chiikawa - 45g is ideal for you. It’s especially suitable if you enjoy a typing experience that feels nimble and lively, allowing for rapid keystrokes with minimal effort. In contrast, if you appreciate a more substantial feel with a slightly higher bottom-out force and a rich, deep sound, the KTT Pine linear switch will be your go-to. Its buttery smoothness and creamy texture ensure an effortless typing experience, making it perfect for long typing sessions where comfort and a solid, satisfying keystroke are paramount. By weighing these characteristics against your typing habits and preferences, you can ensure that you make the right choice tailored to your needs.
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