Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly impact your typing experience, and the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and Jwick Splash Brothers are two appealing options for linear switch enthusiasts. The Chiikawa - 45g is renowned for its very light actuation force and bright sound profile, which not only makes it exceptionally responsive but also produces a crisp, high-pitched sound that some typists find satisfying and invigorating. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers switch, reminiscent of a dynamic duo, is distinguished by its shorter activation point and long pole stem, delivering a unique typing feel complemented by a creamy sound signature. While both switches cater to those who prefer smooth keystrokes without tactile feedback, the Chiikawa offers a more vibrant auditory experience, whereas the Splash Brothers focus on a refined, balanced output. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Jwick Splash Brothers share a uniformity in their top housing material, both utilizing polycarbonate. This choice of material results in a comparably clearer and more resonant sound profile for both switches, producing a sharper, higher-pitched auditory experience when a key is pressed. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate contributes significantly to this characteristic sound quality, ensuring that users can expect similar auditory feedback from both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual experience when paired with RGB lighting, making both options aesthetically appealing for those who want their keyboards to have an engaging look while enjoying enhanced sound performance.
While both switches boast identical top housing materials, they differ in their bottom housing construction. The Chiikawa - 45g uses a nylon bottom housing, while the Splash Brothers also feature nylon in their lower section, which allows for deeper sound absorption. The choice of nylon in both cases results in a fuller, rounder sound profile, which contrasts with the higher-pitched clarity provided by the polycarbonate top. As both switches utilize the same bottom housing material, users can expect a similar auditory depth when bottoming out on either switch, leading to a consistent and enjoyable typing experience across both models.
Ultimately, the synergy between the top and bottom housing materials of each switch forms a comprehensive sound profile. The polycarbonate top imparts a crispness to the sound upon releasing the key, while the nylon bottom ensures that the sound produced during the bottom-out phase is deep and rich. Therefore, despite the apparent differences in the top and bottom housing between the Chiikawa - 45g and the Jwick Splash Brothers, the combination of these materials leads to a cohesive typing experience where users can anticipate comparable results with respect to sound and acoustic quality.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Chiikawa switch features a specific actuation force of 45 grams with a bottom out force of 51 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Splash Brothers switch has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 48 grams, which is characterized as light. This suggests that the Chiikawa requires a bit more force to activate, providing a slightly more substantial feedback when typing. Consequently, users may find the Chiikawa more suitable for those who prefer a heavier feel, while the lighter actuation of the Splash Brothers could appeal to those looking for less resistance during long typing sessions. Overall, the Chiikawa switch is the heavier option, while the Splash Brothers offers a lighter experience, making it ideal for extended usage without fatigue.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it is evident that there is a slight difference between the two. The Chiikawa switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Splash Brothers switch measures 3.5 mm. This makes the Chiikawa switch the longer option, albeit only by a small margin. Gamers who prioritize quick response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Splash Brothers switch for its potentially faster actuation. On the other hand, those who appreciate a bit more depth in their key presses might gravitate towards the Chiikawa switch for its greater travel distance, as it can offer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Ultimately, both switches can provide a satisfying experience, but individual preferences will dictate which one is better suited to each user.
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 Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49 per 10 switches.
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 linear switch is renowned for its bright and crisp sound profile, characterized by a high-pitched tone that is quite noticeable during typing. This attribute lends itself to a more pronounced auditory feedback that can be satisfying for those who enjoy an engaging typing experience. In contrast, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch exhibits a creamy sound signature, which leans towards a softer and more neutral auditory profile. This makes it suitable for a variety of environments, whether at home or in an office, as it maintains an unobtrusive presence while still providing a pleasant typing sound. Ultimately, while both switches offer distinctly different auditory experiences—bright and crisp versus creamy and neutral—they share a common theme of producing enjoyable sounds that enhance the typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Chiikawa - 45g is designed for a notably light actuation force, lending itself to a very responsive typing experience. This lightness can be particularly appealing for typists who prefer less resistance, allowing for quicker typing without much effort. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch provides a more nuanced typing feel, with descriptors such as mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished. This means the Splash Brothers not only offer a gentle typing experience but also deliver a lively response thanks to its longer pole stem and dual-staged springs. The polished nature of the switch further enhances the overall smoothness of the key travel, making it a well-rounded choice. While both switches aim for a satisfying feel, the Chiikawa focuses on extreme lightness and response, while the Splash Brothers offer a broader spectrum of tactile feedback.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch provide unique sensory experiences that cater to different preferences. The Chiikawa stands out with its bright sound and very light actuation, making it perfect for those seeking quick responsiveness and auditory feedback. Meanwhile, the Splash Brothers offer a versatile and creamy sound profile, coupled with a sophisticated feel that combines mild resistance with lively responsiveness. Depending on individual tastes, either switch can deliver a fulfilling typing experience, though they may appeal to different aesthetics and functional preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switches, your preferences and intended use will significantly influence your decision. If you lean towards a more engaging and lively typing experience with crisp, high-pitched sound feedback, the Chiikawa - 45g is the ideal choice. Its medium-light actuation force and bright auditory profile cater well to those who enjoy a responsive and energetic feel while typing, making it perfect for gaming or fast-paced writing. Conversely, if you prefer a more balanced and gentle typing experience, the Jwick Splash Brothers switches may be more suitable. With a slightly lighter bottom-out force and a creamy sound signature, they provide a snappy yet subdued typing feel that's accessible to both beginners and experienced users alike. Their mild characteristics enable a comfortable experience in shared environments, making them a versatile choice for home or office work. Ultimately, your selection should reflect your typing style, acoustical preferences, and whether you prioritize a dynamic feel or a more subdued auditory experience.
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