Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch can significantly impact your typing experience. The Chiikawa - 45g is renowned for its light actuation force and bright sound profile, making it highly responsive and ideal for users who prefer a quick and nimble typing sensation. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy a crisp, high-pitched sound while typing, adding an engaging auditory element to their work. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown switches are designed for a more subdued experience, featuring a rounded tactile bump that provides satisfying feedback without the distraction of loud keystrokes. Their light to medium resistance also contributes to a comfortable typing experience, making them suitable for both typing and gaming. Each switch has its unique advantages: if speed and a lively sound are your priorities, the Chiikawa might be your go-to; however, if you prefer a quieter and more tactile experience, the Silent Brown could be the better choice. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Y3X
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the TTC Silent Brown both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which imparts sharpness and clarity to their respective sound profiles. This common material contributes to a higher-pitched and crisper sound, largely due to polycarbonate's stiff structure that enhances resonance. Moreover, the translucency of the polycarbonate is not just functional but also aesthetic, making it an excellent choice for RGB lighting enthusiasts. Given these characteristics, users can expect similar sound profiles from both switches when typing, as the polycarbonate top allows for effective sound projection and a visually appealing light diffusion.
In contrast, both switches feature nylon in their bottom housing, which lends a deeper and fuller sound profile to the overall experience. Nylon, known for its softer and more absorbent properties, mitigates some of the higher frequencies produced by the polycarbonate, resulting in a sound that is rounder and less abrasive. The bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound is significant, as it contributes a muffled quality that contrasts with the sharper top. Thus, while both uses of polycarbonate lead to bright and vibrant top sounds, the nylon bottom softens the overall auditory experience, showcasing the unique balance provided by the combination of these two materials.
Ultimately, the use of the same materials in both the Chiikawa - 45g and the TTC Silent Brown creates a cohesive auditory experience. The similarities in polycarbonate top housings facilitate a crisper sound when keys are released, while the nylon bottoms ensure that the typing experience is enveloped in warmth and depth. Thus, typing on either switch can deliver a satisfying feel and sound due to their shared construction, allowing users to enjoy the clearer top sounds complemented by fuller, more rounded bottom responses regardless of the switch preference they choose.
Weight
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch present an interesting comparison in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally responsive when initiating a keystroke. However, the differences become evident when examining their bottom out forces: the Chiikawa has a bottom out force of 51 grams, while the Silent Brown’s bottom out force is significantly higher at 63.5 grams. This makes the Chiikawa lighter overall, providing a more effortless typing experience, which can be ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the heavier bottom out force of the Silent Brown switch offers a more substantial push feeling, catering to users who prefer a stronger tactile response. Therefore, if you enjoy a lighter feel, the Chiikawa is the better option, while the Silent Brown appeals to those desiring a heftier engagement when typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, we find distinct differences that can influence user preference. The Chiikawa switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Silent Brown offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Silent Brown allows for a bit more key travel, which may be preferable for users who enjoy a deeper, more tactile press. Conversely, the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Chiikawa switch can provide a quicker response time, appealing to those who prefer a more responsive typing experience, particularly gamers. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches should consider whether you value the shorter, snappier feel of the Chiikawa or the more pronounced depth of the Silent Brown.
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 TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown 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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch is known for its bright sound profile, producing a crisp, high-pitched tone when typing. This makes it particularly appealing for those who enjoy an audible yet responsive auditory feedback during their typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch features a muted sound profile, significantly softer and quieter compared to standard mechanical switches. This design minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, making it an excellent choice for environments where typing noise might be disruptive.
Regarding feel, the Chiikawa - 45g offers a very light actuation force, making it notably responsive with a smooth key travel experience. However, the specific feel is not detailed here. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown excels in providing a buttery and polished typing experience, characterized by a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation. It also features a mild resistance with a rounded tactile bump, which gives typists a gentle yet satisfying feedback. This combination allows for an approachable typing experience that appeals to a broad range of users.
In conclusion, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switches cater to different preferences in auditory and tactile experiences. While the Chiikawa provides a bright and responsive sound, the Silent Brown offers a more subdued, muted auditory feedback. On the feel front, the Chiikawa leans towards a light and smooth actuation, while the Silent Brown emphasizes a polished and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, your choice may come down to whether you prefer a brighter sound and lighter feel or a quieter, more tactile experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, consider your specific typing needs and preferences. If you favor a lighter and more responsive typing experience, the Chiikawa switch is an excellent choice due to its low actuation force and bright sound profile, making it particularly well-suited for fast-paced gaming or typing scenarios where auditory feedback is desirable. On the other hand, if you prefer a more deliberate and tactile experience, the Silent Brown switch offers a satisfying tactile bump and a muted sound, which is ideal for office environments or shared spaces where noise reduction is a priority. The heavier bottom-out force of the Silent Brown also provides a fuller, more substantial feel, which can enhance typing accuracy and comfort during long sessions. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you value a lighter, more responsive keystroke or a weightier switch with a noticeable tactile response and minimal noise.
Mentioned in this article
