Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Gateron Smoothie offer distinct yet appealing characteristics for users seeking a satisfying typing experience. The Chiikawa switch is celebrated for its bright sound profile and very light actuation force, making it highly responsive and ideal for those who prefer a crisp, high-pitched auditory feedback while typing. Its lightweight touch can be particularly advantageous for those who type frequently or enjoy fast-paced gaming. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie is crafted with an all-POM construction that delivers a thocky sound signature and impressive smoothness, providing a more subdued and creamy typing experience. This switch stands out for its affordability without sacrificing quality, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious enthusiasts. While both switches are linear and known for their smooth keystrokes, their sound profiles and tactile feedback cater to different preferences. 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
3.60 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
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Gateron Smoothie, the differences in sound profile and material characteristics are evident. The Chiikawa features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, more resonant sound due to its stiffer composition. This quality makes it ideal for users who prefer a higher-pitched and crisper auditory experience, especially beneficial for those utilizing RGB lighting thanks to the material’s translucency. In contrast, the Smoothie employs a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, which produces a unique, deeper, and more muted sound profile. The softer characteristics of POM contribute to a sound that is less sharp but offers a warm tone that many users find appealing.
Examining the bottom housing of each switch reveals a similar divergence in material use. The Chiikawa's nylon bottom housing is a traditional choice that provides a full-bodied, deeper sound profile by absorbing more sound, thus resulting in a rounder auditory experience. Conversely, the Smoothie's POM bottom housing also generates a deeper sound; however, its muted quality can be attributed to the specific acoustic properties of POM. While both materials serve to enrich the sound, the nylon in the Chiikawa leans towards offering a more classic feel, whereas the POM in the Smoothie offers a modern take on sound design that resonates with users looking for a unique auditory signature.
Despite these differences in materials, similar results in terms of sound depth can still be achieved when typing. The impact of each housing material is split between the top and bottom housings; therefore, the overall typing experience relies on how the plastic’s characteristics complement each other. The Chiikawa’s crisp top and fuller bottom allow for a balanced sound, while the Smoothie’s muted top and bottom create a continuously smooth auditory experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique sound profiles that suit different preferences, providing options that cater to various typing experiences while still allowing users to enjoy richness in sound.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces that affect user experience. The Chiikawa has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, while the Smoothie features an even lighter actuation force of 40 grams. This means that users seeking a lighter switch for prolonged typing sessions or gaming may prefer the Gateron Smoothie. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Chiikawa is 51 grams, which provides a more pronounced feel when the key is fully pressed down, whereas the bottom out force for the Smoothie remains unknown. With this information, it is clear that the Chiikawa is the heavier of the two switches, while the Gateron Smoothie is lighter, making it suitable for those who prioritize ease of keystrokes without sacrificing responsiveness.
Travel distance
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, indicating that they provide the same distance when pressed down. This means that users will experience a similar tactile response when using either switch, resulting in comparable performance and feel across different key presses. Since both switches have the same travel distance, players and typists can expect a consistent experience whether they choose the Chiikawa or the Smoothie.
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 Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 high-pitched, crisp noise that can be quite pleasing to the ear. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch excels with its thocky sound signature, characterized by a deep, rich tone that emits a satisfying "thud" upon actuation. The Smoothie's sound is further complemented by a low-pitched and subdued characteristic, giving it a bass-heavy and mellow tone when compared to the Chiikawa. Consequently, while the Chiikawa offers a more vibrant auditory experience, the Smoothie gives a deeper, more resonant sound, offering distinct auditory profiles based on the type of typing experience one is seeking.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 45g linear switch is notably light and responsive, which enhances its agility in typing tasks, although specifics on the tactile feedback are not provided. The Gateron Smoothie, on the other hand, is celebrated for its buttery, creamy, and silky sensation, creating an incredibly smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This seamless typing quality allows for an effortless engagement with the keys, making it ideal for prolonged use. While the Chiikawa may deliver a light feel that supports quick keystrokes, the Smoothie elevates the experience with its superior smoothness and tactile luxury.
In summary, both switches cater to different preferences regarding sound and feel. The Chiikawa - 45g provides a bright, crisp auditory sensation while the Gateron Smoothie offers a deeper thocky sound complemented by its remarkably smooth feel. Depending on your typing style and sound preference, you can choose between a lightweight responsiveness or a plush, silky experience. Each switch has its unique attributes, allowing newcomers to tailor their mechanical keyboard experience to their liking, whether they prioritize sound, feel, or both.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, you should consider what characteristics matter most to your typing experience. If you prefer a light actuation force combined with a bright sound profile, making each keystroke feel responsive and lively, the Chiikawa - 45g might be the perfect choice for you. Its medium-light bottom out force and crisp sound can enhance precision in fast typing scenarios. On the other hand, if you value a deeper, more thocky sound signature and a buttery smooth feel, the Gateron Smoothie could be your ideal match. This switch offers a more subdued audio experience and is designed for users who appreciate a creamy and silky typing sensation, making it well-suited for extended typing sessions where comfort and noise level are of concern. Ultimately, both switches present unique attributes, so the choice should align with your specific preferences in sound, feel, and performance.
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