Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the HC Studio Roselle both offer unique experiences for typists and gamers alike. The Chiikawa switch is celebrated for its very light actuation force and bright sound profile, providing a responsive feel and a sharp, high-pitched auditory feedback that can be particularly satisfying for those who enjoy a more lively typing experience. In contrast, the Roselle switch stands out for its ethereal smoothness and subtle low-pitched sound signature, which delivers a more grounded and bassy typing experience. With its frictionless material blend, the Roselle appeals to users who prioritize a silky, seamless keystroke. While both switches are linear and designed for smooth key presses without tactile bumps, your choice may depend on whether you prefer the Chiikawa's energetic sound or the calming, muted tone of the Roselle. 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
52g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Y3X
Stem material
Y3
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
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the HC Studio Roselle switches, notable differences in sound profiles emerge from their distinct top housing materials. The Chiikawa features a polycarbonate top housing, which is characterized by its stiffness and translucence. This material produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile that is particularly well-suited for RGB lighting setups, as the light can elegantly shine through. In contrast, the Roselle employs a POM top housing, which offers a warmer and deeper sound profile described as muted and unique. While both materials contribute to the overall acoustic characteristics, the polycarbonate of the Chiikawa leans towards clarity and brightness, whereas the POM of the Roselle ensures a more rounded and softer auditory experience.
The bottom housing materials also shed light on their differing sound signatures. The Chiikawa's nylon bottom housing enhances its overall performance by amplifying deeper and fuller sounds, largely because nylon is known for its sound absorption capabilities. This results in a more profound bottom-out sound and feel when typing. Conversely, the Roselle's POM bottom housing similarly promotes a richer and deeper sound profile, though it leans towards a more muted experience. Given that the bottom housing is crucial during key presses, the nylon and POM serve to enhance the resonance of each switch, leading to distinct tactile and auditory experiences that flavor both switches differently.
Despite these differences, both combinations leverage their unique housing materials to curate distinctive sound profiles. In both the Chiikawa and Roselle switches, the interplay of top and bottom housing allows users to achieve a satisfying typing experience. While the Chiikawa may deliver a brighter, more resonant quality due to its polycarbonate top, and the Roselle offers a softer, muted tone from its POM top, users can expect engaging and pleasing sound signatures from each. Consequently, whether a user prefers the sharper clarity of the Chiikawa or the mellow warmth of the Roselle, the emphasis on high-quality materials ensures that either choice will provide a rewarding auditory experience.
Weight
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch exhibit similar characteristics in terms of their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches require an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equal in this respect, which allows for a similarly light typing experience that could benefit users looking for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming marathons. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Chiikawa switch has a slightly lower bottom out force of 51 grams compared to the Roselle's 52 grams, indicating that the Roselle provides a bit more resistance when fully depressed. Overall, while both switches are categorized as medium-light and offer similar actuation feelings, the Roselle is marginally heavier at bottoming out, which might appeal to users who prefer a slightly firmer key feel without compromising on the ease of actuation.
Travel distance
Both the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch have an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on the keys of both switches, as they travel the same distance from the top to the bottom. The uniformity in travel distance ensures that both switches provide a comparable feel, catering well to those who prefer a consistent keypress experience. Since both switches share the same travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of key responsiveness and actuation 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 HC Studio Roselle has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Roselle for $4.70.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the HC Studio Roselle linear switches, notable differences emerge. The Chiikawa - 45g is known for its bright and high-pitched sound, delivering a crisp auditory feedback that stands out during typing. In contrast, the Roselle features a low-pitched, subtle sound signature that leans towards the bassy side. This results in a deeper and richer sound profile, providing a more mellow typing experience that some users might find more pleasing and less intrusive, particularly in quieter environments. Therefore, while typing on the Chiikawa can feel lively and engaging, the Roselle evokes a softer and more rounded sound experience.
In terms of feel, the distinctions between the two switches are quite pronounced. The Chiikawa - 45g is recognized for its very light actuation force, which contributes to a responsive typing experience, though specific qualitative descriptions are not provided. Conversely, the Roselle boasts a frictionless sensation, allowing for an effortlessly smooth keystroke that minimizes any resistance. This frictionless quality, combined with a mild typing sensation, means the Roselle provides a gentle and fluid travel that appeals to users who prefer a soft touch. While each switch offers a distinct typing experience, those enjoying light actuation forces may still find some comfort in the smoothness of the Roselle.
In conclusion, while both switches cater to a segment of linear switch enthusiasts, they offer unique auditory and tactile experiences. The Chiikawa - 45g emphasizes a bright and responsive sound with a very light actuation force, making it ideal for those who appreciate a spirited feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Roselle's low-pitched sound and frictionless feel provide a soothing and effortless typing experience. Ultimately, your preference will greatly depend on whether you prioritize a lively auditory experience or a smooth, gentle touch while typing, but you can expect both switches to deliver satisfying results in their own right.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, your preferences in typing feel and sound profile will guide your choice. If you prioritize a light actuation and the crisp, bright sound of key presses, the Chiikawa - 45g is your go-to option. Its medium-light bottom-out force and engaging high-pitched sound make it particularly responsive, which can enhance your typing experience, especially if you enjoy the tactile feedback of more lively switches. On the other hand, if you’re seeking a buttery smooth typing experience with a soothing low-pitched sound, the Roselle is ideal for you. Its frictionless feel and subtle bassy sound signature make it an excellent choice for extended typing sessions or general use without overwhelming your auditory senses. Ultimately, the decision rests on whether you prefer an energetic typing sensation or a silky, mellow experience, making it easier for you to find the switch that best suits your needs.
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