Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, understanding the nuances between different options can greatly enhance your typing experience. The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g stands out with its incredibly light actuation force and bright sound profile, making it exceptionally responsive and perfect for users who enjoy a lively, high-pitched audio feedback while typing. This switch is ideal for those who value speed and agility in their keystrokes. In contrast, the SP-Star RedBlue offers a medium-light typing feel with a more subdued, low-pitched sound profile, catering to those who prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience without compromising tactile feedback. Its characteristics are often described as neutral and thocky, providing a polished touch that's appealing for both gaming and long typing sessions. Both switches have their unique benefits: the Chiikawa is excellent for rapid, energetic typing, while the RedBlue strikes a balance with its more muted acoustics and comfortable feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your personal preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the SP-Star RedBlue both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a similar auditory profile characterized by sharpness, high pitch, and clarity. This choice of material is crucial for achieving a crisp sound, as polycarbonate's stiffer properties enhance resonance. When combined with RGB lighting, the translucency of polycarbonate further accentuates the aesthetic appeal of these switches. Players looking for vibrant and visually engaging keyboard setups will find both switches exceptionally compatible, as they are designed to let light diffuse beautifully through the housing, offering an appealing illumination experience.
However, the two switches diverge significantly in their bottom housing materials. The Chiikawa - 45g features a nylon bottom housing, known for its softer texture which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a muted and rounded auditory characteristic. In contrast, the RedBlue employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing, mirroring the high-pitched and clear sound signature established by its top housing. Consequently, the choice of nylon in the Chiikawa creates a more distinct contrast in sound when compared with the RedBlue, which maintains a harmonized, bright output throughout both housings.
Ultimately, while both switches share similarities in their top housing's material, their differing bottom housings lead to varied auditory experiences. Players using the Chiikawa - 45g will notice a fuller sound when bottoming out due to the nylon’s sound-absorbing properties, while the RedBlue will generate a more consistent high-pitched sound throughout. For those seeking a balance between the clarity of polycarbonate and the depth of nylon, the Chiikawa offers a versatile soundscape. Conversely, the RedBlue will appeal to those who prefer a sharper auditory response. Understanding these nuances will help users select the switch that aligns best with their personal typing preferences and aesthetic desires.
Weight
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams, while the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a bottom out force of 57 grams, but its actuation force is unknown. This means the Chiikawa switch is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces, making it potentially more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or extended gaming. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch's bottom out force is heavier, which may appeal to users seeking a more substantial feel during use. Since the actuation force for the RedBlue switch is not specified, we cannot make a direct comparison for that parameter. However, the consistent bottom out force indicates that, regardless of their actuation forces, the RedBlue will provide a firmer experience upon bottoming out compared to the Chiikawa switch. Ultimately, if users favor a lighter switch, the Chiikawa may be the better choice, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel might lean towards the heavier characteristics of the RedBlue.
Travel distance
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Chiikawa switch offers a shorter travel distance, which might appeal to gamers who favor quicker response times and more immediate feedback when pressing keys. In contrast, the RedBlue switch, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more traditional, satisfying depth that some users prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, if you're looking for responsiveness and agility, the Chiikawa would be the better choice, while the RedBlue might suit those who appreciate a deeper feel in their keystrokes.
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 RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 produces a bright and crisp high-pitched sound that is both engaging and responsive, ideal for users who enjoy a lively auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a low-pitched sound profile, presenting a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. The RedBlue switches evoke a thocky character, typical of deeper sounds, making them well-suited for more muted environments. This combination means that while the Chiikawa offers an energetic auditory experience, the RedBlue provides a softer and richer sound, making the choice largely dependent on user preference for brightness versus warmth.
When considering feel, the Chiikawa - 45g is known for its very light actuation force, which enhances its responsiveness and makes it easy to register keystrokes. This can result in a lighter, almost effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the RedBlue linear switch provides a medium-light typing feel characterized by mildness and polish. This translates to a gentle yet refined interface, allowing for a smoother key travel experience. While both switches cater to those who lean towards lighter actuation, the Chiikawa might feel more nimble and quick, whereas the RedBlue could offer a more balanced and comfortable typing sensation.
Overall, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and SP-Star RedBlue linear switches cater to different auditory and tactile preferences. The Chiikawa’s bright sound profile and very light feel emphasize a quick and lively feedback, while the RedBlue's low-pitched, thocky tones paired with a mild and polished experience present a more subdued and comfortable option. Depending on whether you seek an energizing typing experience or a smooth and mellow one, both switches can be excellent choices, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard journey is tailored to your specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches, your choice should be guided by your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a light actuation and prefer a more vibrant, crisp sound profile, the Chiikawa - 45g is an excellent choice for you. Its lower bottom-out force of 51 grams makes it particularly responsive, ideal for fast typists or gamers who favor rapid key presses. On the other hand, if you lean towards a slightly heavier feel and richer tone, the SP-Star RedBlue, with its 57-gram bottom-out force, offers a more balanced typing experience. Its low-pitched, thocky sound profile is well-suited for those who appreciate a deep, satisfying keystroke, whether in a home office setting or during casual gaming. Ultimately, your selection should align with the typing experience you seek: light and bright with the Chiikawa - 45g or polished and mild with the SP-Star RedBlue.
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