Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) offer two distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The Chiikawa - 45g is a linear switch that shines with its light actuation force and bright sound profile, resulting in quick responsiveness and a crisp, high-pitched auditory feedback. This makes it a fantastic option for those who favor speed and smoothness in their keystrokes. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) is a tactile switch designed for those who crave a pronounced tactile bump. With its sharp tactility and satisfying clack, this switch is particularly well-suited for typists who enjoy a more engaging typing experience. While the Chiikawa offers an effortless and quiet environment, the POM T1 provides feedback that some may find invigorating and motivating. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right 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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Y3X
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches showcase distinct characteristics in their housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Chiikawa - 45g features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to the stiffness of the material. This quality enables the switch to resonate more clearly, offering an enhanced sound experience, especially when augmented with RGB lighting, due to the translucency of polycarbonate. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch has a top housing made of POM, a material that tends to produce a deeper, richer sound. The POM top housing results in a more muted sound profile compared to polycarbonate, creating a unique auditory experience that leans toward a warmer tone.
When examining the bottom housings of these switches, it is clear that both utilize different materials to achieve similar sound characteristics, albeit with variations in depth and richness. The Chiikawa - 45g employs a nylon bottom housing, which is recognized for its ability to absorb sound, thereby yielding a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature contributes to a rounded and duller auditory experience, contrasting with the sharper top housing made of polycarbonate. Meanwhile, the POM T1 (Sunflower) features a POM bottom housing that similarly produces a deeper and muted sound. Although both switches might be constructed using disparate materials for top and bottom housings, they deliver a complementary auditory performance, with each material enhancing different aspects of the sound profile.
Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) illustrate how material choices can influence the perception of sound and typing feel in mechanical switches. The Chiikawa's combination of a stiffer polycarbonate top housing and softer nylon bottom housing creates a unique duality, where the sharper top sounds are complemented by deeper, fuller bottom notes. On the other hand, the POM T1 achieves a cohesive sound profile throughout by using POM for both top and bottom housings, resulting in a more unified auditory experience. Even with these differences, both switch designs capitalize on their respective materials to achieve a range of sound qualities, allowing users to select switches that best suit their personal preferences for sound and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Chiikawa - 45g has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams, categorizing it as medium-light and making it easier on the fingers for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower) features a currently unknown actuation force, but its bottom out force is considerably heavier at 67 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range. This means that while the Chiikawa is the lighter option, ideal for those seeking comfort over long periods, the POM T1 is better suited for users who prefer a more substantial feel with a higher resistance, making it more tactile and potentially satisfying for those who enjoy a stronger push experience. Therefore, if one were to utilize the switches for different purposes, the Chiikawa would be advantageous for prolonged tasks, while the POM T1 would cater to those wanting more heft in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This indicates that the Chiikawa switch is the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel that may appeal to gamers or individuals who prefer quicker key presses. On the other hand, the POM T1, with its longer travel distance, provides a more substantial key press experience, which some users may find more satisfying or comfortable for typing tasks. If you are looking for a balance between rapid response and feedback, you might appreciate both switches, as the differences in travel distance cater to varying preferences in key press depth and feel.
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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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 examining the sound profiles of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), there are distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Chiikawa switch is celebrated for its bright sound, providing a crisp, high-pitched auditory feedback that many find appealing and responsive. This makes it an engaging option for typists who enjoy an upbeat sound environment while typing. Conversely, the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a clean and resonant auditory experience, characterized by sharp clacks that provide a satisfying echo with every keystroke. The overall sound profile of the T1 can be described as neutral, appealing to a broader range of users, from those new to mechanical keyboards to seasoned veterans. However, it’s essential to note that the sound of both switches can be influenced by factors like the keyboard they are mounted on and the type of keycaps used, meaning that individual experiences may vary.
In terms of feel, the Chiikawa - 45g presents a very light actuation force, enhancing its responsiveness and making it an excellent choice for users who prefer a smoother, more effortless typing experience. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is designed for those who prioritize tactility, featuring a pronounced tactile bump that is sharp and distinct. This switch offers an invigorating feel with a combination of strong feedback and responsiveness, resulting in a typing sensation that is engaging and lively. The T1 also possesses qualities that make it snappy and accented, ensuring that typists enjoy a balanced level of tactility that is perceptible without being overwhelming. Together, the feel of these two switches highlights a clear distinction where the Chiikawa leans towards a lighter touch and fluidity, while the T1 emphasizes tactile feedback and engagement.
In conclusion, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. The Chiikawa offers a bright and light typing experience, perfect for those who appreciate a responsive sound and smooth keystrokes. Meanwhile, the POM T1 shines in providing a more substantial tactile feedback with its resonant and sharpy sound profile, catering to users who prefer a lively typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on personal preference, as both provide unique auditory and tactile experiences that can significantly influence the overall typing enjoyment.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a light touch, responsive feedback, and a bright sound profile, the Chiikawa switch is an excellent option especially for fast typing and gaming. Its medium-light actuation force combined with a crisp, high-pitched sound makes for an engaging experience, ideal if you want less fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced tactile experience with a robust feedback mechanism, the Durock POM T1 is the way to go. With its medium-heavy actuation force and sharp, invigorating tactility, this switch is perfect for those who appreciate a strong tactile response and a satisfying auditory experience, making it especially suitable for typing scenarios where accuracy and tactile reassurance are crucial. Ultimately, consider how each switch aligns with your typing style and sound preference to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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