Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Dareu Sky POM offer two distinct experiences, even within the realm of linear switches. The Chiikawa - 45g is celebrated for its light actuation force and a bright sound profile, rendering it not only highly responsive but also delivering an engaging high-pitched auditory feedback as you type. This combination makes it an excellent choice for those who value speed and a lively typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM switch stands out with its unique construction from POM material, which provides a buttery smooth feel coupled with a low-pitched, clacky sound. This switch is designed for enthusiasts who appreciate a blend of premium quality and affordability, making it an attractive option for casual and serious typists alike. Ultimately, both switches have their strengths, appealing to different preferences and typing styles. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The comparison between the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Dareu Sky POM reveals intriguing differences in sound profiles and aesthetics. The Chiikawa utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound quality, making it an excellent choice for RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Sky POM switch features a POM top housing, which is characterized by a deeper and more muted sound. This difference in sound profile reflects how the material characteristics align differently with auditory preferences, suggesting that while both switches aim to deliver unique auditory experiences, they cater to distinct user tastes.
The bottom housing of both switches is made from nylon, a classic choice in switch design that consistently delivers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Since nylon is softer than both polycarbonate and POM, it effectively absorbs sound, producing a duller and rounder accent in the audible result. This commonality in the bottom housing serves to harmonize the auditory experience across both switches. Therefore, while the top housing materials vary significantly and greatly influence the sound signature—one favoring brightness and clarity, the other depth and warmth—both switches share a similar foundation in the bottom housing that leans toward a pleasing, rounded sound profile.
Ultimately, the combination of differing top housing materials alongside the shared nylon bottom housing indicates that users might experience varying nuances in sound, dependent on the switch used. For instance, one would notice a crisp sound upon releasing a key on the Chiikawa due to its polycarbonate top, while the Dareu's POM top would lend a more subdued release sound. Nonetheless, with nylon at play in the bottoms of both switches, users can expect a consistent and delightful low-end sound quality, allowing for an enjoyable typing experience whether favoring the clarity of polycarbonate or the warmth of POM. Thus, these two switches exemplify how the interaction between housing materials can create a diverse but complementary typing and auditory experience.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, we observe a distinction in their actuation forces, with the Chiikawa requiring a 45g actuation force, while the Sky POM is lighter at 40g. This difference suggests that users of the Sky POM may find it easier to type for extended periods without fatigue due to the lower force required to register a keystroke. However, the bottom out forces vary significantly, as the Chiikawa has a defined bottom out force of 51 grams, providing a substantial feel when keys are fully pressed down. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Sky POM is unknown, which leaves us unable to compare their tactile feedback upon bottoming out. Overall, those who prefer a lighter switch may gravitate towards the Dareu Sky POM, while those who enjoy a more robust typing experience might opt for the Bsun Chiikawa due to its higher bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, the Chiikawa features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sky POM offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that if you opt for the Chiikawa switch, you'll experience a slightly shorter actuation range, which can lead to faster response times—an essential factor for gamers who prioritize rapid key presses. On the other hand, the Sky POM, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more robust feel that some users prefer for its depth and tactile feedback. Thus, if you're leaning towards more responsive action, the Chiikawa would be the better choice, whereas those who appreciate a bit more travel may enjoy the Sky POM.
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 Dareu Sky POM has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky POM for $4.98.
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 switch produces a distinctly bright sound profile that is crisp and high-pitched, leading to a highly responsive auditory feedback when typing. This brightness can contribute to an engaging typing experience, particularly appealing for those who enjoy a more energetic sound. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM switch is characterized by a low-pitched, clacky sound that provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. This difference in sound profile means that while the Chiikawa evokes a lively response, the Sky POM delivers a more subdued, yet still satisfying auditory experience. The choice of board and keycaps can also influence the overall sound, but in isolation, these switches provide distinctly different auditory results.
In terms of feel, the Chiikawa - 45g is known for its very light actuation force, which allows for a quick and easy keystroke experience, making it ideal for fast typists or gamers looking for responsive feedback. The Dareu Sky POM switch, on the other hand, excels in smoothness, described as buttery, creamy, and silky. Users can expect a seamless and effortless typing sensation, enhanced by the POM material used in its construction. The Sky POM’s feel complements its sound, creating a typing experience that glides with ease compared to the more immediate tactile response offered by the Chiikawa.
In summary, while the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and Dareu Sky POM linear switches both deliver solid performance, they cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Chiikawa is ideal for those who favor a bright and responsive auditory feedback with a very light touch, whereas the Sky POM appeals to individuals who prioritize a smooth, creamy typing experience accompanied by a softer, more mellow sound. Depending on what aspects you value in typing, you can expect distinct but rewarding qualities from each switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the environments in which you’ll be using your keyboard. If you enjoy a more responsive, lighter touch with a bright sound profile that emphasizes a high-pitched, crisp typing experience, then the Chiikawa - 45g is an excellent choice for you. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 51 grams makes it suitable for fast typists or gamers seeking quick actuation. Conversely, if you prefer a smoother, more mellow typing experience with a gentle clacky sound and a luxurious feel, the Dareu Sky POM switch will serve you well. Its unique POM construction delivers a buttery, creamy, and silky sensation, making it ideal for those who value a premium typing experience without the heavy actuation force. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you prioritize sound and responsiveness or smoothness and sheer typing comfort.
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