Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the diverse world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the SP-Star Polaris Purple present two compelling options tailored to different typing preferences. The Chiikawa - 45g, a linear switch, is celebrated for its lightweight 45g actuation force, delivering an incredibly responsive feel and a bright sound profile that makes each keystroke crisp and enjoyable. This switch is an excellent choice for typists seeking rapid, uninterrupted keystrokes without the tactile feedback. In contrast, the Polaris Purple offers a tactile experience that many enthusiasts cherish, featuring a pronounced tactile bump that provides a thrilling sensation upon key activation. With a snappier sound profile and a signature feedback that many find exhilarating, it appeals to those who appreciate a more interactive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches can significantly impact your typing enjoyment and efficiency; 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, which significantly influences the auditory characteristics of each switch. The polycarbonate material leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, enhancing the clarity and resonance upon key presses. This shared composition allows both switches to effectively showcase RGB lighting, as their translucency optimizes the illuminated effects, making them visually appealing in aesthetic setups. By having polycarbonate as the top housing material, users can expect a similar auditory sharpness and brightness, regardless of the different functionalities each switch offers.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials of the two switches differ significantly. The Chiikawa - 45g employs a nylon bottom housing, known for its ability to deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer composition. This results in a more muted sound that absorbs vibrations, providing a rounder auditory experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which maintains the signature clear and crisp sound profile characteristic of polycarbonate. Consequently, the different bottom housing materials will alter the feel and sound experience when pressing down on the switches, with the Chiikawa producing a more subdued bottom-out sound compared to the sharpness of the Polaris Purple.
Ultimately, the divergence in bottom housing materials leads to a nuanced playing experience between the Chiikawa - 45g and the Polaris Purple. While both switches provide vibrant soundscapes due to their polycarbonate tops, the nylon base of the Chiikawa softens the overall appeal, whereas the rigid polycarbonate base of the Polaris Purple sharpens it further. Users can expect distinct sound impressions when activating each switch, mainly derived from the bottom housing’s influence. This interplay of materials shows how the design choices in both switches contribute to a customized feel and audio performance, even while sharing similarities in top housing material.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch with the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Chiikawa switch has a specific actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams, categorizing it as medium-light, which is ideal for users seeking a comfortable typing experience over extended periods. In contrast, the Polaris Purple does not have a specified actuation force but has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. This heaviness suggests a more substantial push feel, appealing to those who prefer a firmer typing experience. Overall, the Chiikawa is the lighter option, making it suitable for long gaming sessions or work, while the Polaris Purple offers more resistance for users who enjoy a stronger tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it's clear that they differ in design. The Chiikawa switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Polaris Purple boasts a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that if you're looking for a quicker response time, the Chiikawa switch may be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance, which is more suited for fast-paced gaming scenarios. In contrast, the Polaris Purple, with its longer travel distance, could appeal to users who appreciate a more substantial feel and depth in their keystrokes. This distinction in travel distance reflects the preferences of various users; those favoring a more responsive typist experience might lean towards the Chiikawa switch, whereas those who enjoy a more tactile and pronounced feel might opt for the Polaris Purple. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on individual preferences regarding depth and responsiveness.
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 SP-Star Polaris Purple has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Purple for $5.00.
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 characterized by its bright sound profile, providing a crisp, high-pitched noise that can be very satisfying during typing. This light sound signature contributes to an overall lively and responsive auditory experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch offers a snappy sound profile that is generally perceived as more neutral. This balance makes it suitable for both casual and professional environments, as it doesn't overwhelm the atmosphere with excessive noise. However, it's important to recognize that the sound produced by both switches can vary significantly depending on the keyboard used and the keycap material chosen.
In terms of feel, the Chiikawa - 45g switch is known for its notably light actuation force, which enhances responsiveness and allows for quick typing. This linear feel means it lacks the tactile feedback that some users might prefer, presenting a smooth keystroke without any bumps. Conversely, the Polaris Purple excels in tactile feedback, thanks to its pronounced tactile bump. This bump provides an exhilarating typing experience, allowing typists to feel each actuation, making it ideal for users who enjoy that physical sensation. Additionally, its mild feel offers a gentle typing experience that is polished, ensuring reduced friction and a smooth key travel that many users will appreciate.
In conclusion, while the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch is marked by a bright sound and light actuation for a responsive typing experience, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch offers a snappier, more neutral sound complemented by a pronounced tactile feel. For those who appreciate an exhilarating typing experience, the Polaris switch stands out, whereas the Chiikawa appeals to those who prefer a smooth and light typing action. Ultimately, both switches provide unique attributes that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring users can find what resonates best with their style.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch ultimately comes down to your personal typing preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a light, responsive switch that offers a crisp, high-pitched sound, the Chiikawa - 45g might be the perfect option for you, especially if you prefer a more accelerated typing experience or if you do a lot of fast-paced gaming. Its medium-light bottom-out force makes it suitable for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more tactile feel with a pronounced bump that offers satisfying feedback with each keystroke, the Polaris Purple would be an excellent choice. With its medium-heavy actuation force and snappy sound profile, it is particularly ideal for those who enjoy a distinct tactile experience, whether for typing or general use. The Polaris Purple also caters well to those who prefer a balanced sound and feel that strikes a middle-ground, making it suitable for both casual use and formal settings. Ultimately, your preference for light versus tactile feedback is key in deciding which switch will enhance your typing experience.
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