Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the HMX SU offer contrasting yet appealing characteristics for different typing preferences. The Chiikawa switches are celebrated for their light 45g actuation force and bright sound profile, which results in a remarkably responsive typing experience and a crisp, high-pitched sound that can be gratifying for users who enjoy auditory feedback. On the other hand, the HMX SU switches are designed with a full PA12 housing and a T5 stem, delivering a more subtle and deeper sound profile that caters to those who prefer a quieter, yet still satisfying, keystroke. While the Chiikawa - 45g emphasizes a lively typing experience enhanced by its lighter actuation, the HMX SU offers a balanced approach that combines smooth performance with a more muted acoustic footprint. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
T5
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the HMX SU switches utilize distinct materials for their top housings, which significantly influences their acoustic characteristics. The Chiikawa - 45g features a polycarbonate top housing that enhances the sound profile by producing sharper, higher-pitched tones. This material is known for its rigidity, contributing to clearer and more resonant sound effects, especially when combined with RGB lighting thanks to its translucent nature. In contrast, the HMX SU employs a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition. Nylon, being more sound-absorbing, provides a duller and rounder auditory experience. Thus, the choice of top housing material between the two switches dictates not only their tonal qualities but also their visual appeal when it comes to backlighting.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Chiikawa - 45g and HMX SU utilize nylon, ensuring a consistent experience in terms of sound absorption and feel. The nylon bottom housing characteristic, which offers a fuller and deeper sound profile, remains the same in both switches. This consistency means that users will experience a similar sound quality when bottoming out the keys, regardless of the differences in the top housing. In this regard, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience through their shared nylon design in the bottom housing, allowing for seamless transitions when typing.
Ultimately, whether utilizing polycarbonate or nylon for the top housing, the switched sound profile and tactile experience will differ, emphasizing either the sharper resonance of the Chiikawa - 45g or the deeper warmth of the HMX SU. When pressed, the nylon bottom housing across both switches cultivates a fulfilling typing experience that ensures auditory depth. However, the way each switch delivers sound during key release varies distinctly due to their opposing top materials, allowing users to choose based on their preference for sound profile and aesthetic while still enjoying a quality, consistent performance from the nylon bottom housing.
Weight
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch both feature an actuation force of 45 grams, making them comparable in this regard. However, their bottom out forces differ slightly, with the Chiikawa registering at 51 grams and the SU at 50 grams. This means that while both switches require the same initial force to trigger a keystroke, the Chiikawa switch provides a slightly greater resistance when pressed all the way down, contributing to a more substantial typing experience. In terms of weight, the Chiikawa is the heavier option due to its higher bottom out force, which may appeal to users who prefer a firmer feel. Conversely, the HMX SU, being lighter with a bottom out force of 50 grams, can lead to a more comfortable typing experience over long periods, making it an excellent choice for extended use. Overall, if you are looking for a switch that balances between tactile feedback and lighter actuation, the HMX SU might be the better fit, while the Chiikawa may satisfy those who prefer slightly more resistance.
Travel distance
Both the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch have an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This similarity means that users pressing down on keys equipped with either switch will experience the same movement and tactile feedback. Given that both switches have the same travel distance, enthusiasts can expect a consistent typing experience between the two, allowing for equally responsive keystrokes whether they choose the Chiikawa or the SU.
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 HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 produces a bright and high-pitched sound profile that gives a lively auditory feedback when typing. This crisp sound can add a sense of satisfaction to your typing experience, making it feel more engaging. On the other hand, the HMX SU linear switch features a more subtle and relatively deep sound profile due to its full PA12 housing and T5 stem combination. The deeper tone tends to be less intrusive, ideal for quieter environments or for those who prefer a more subdued auditory experience. The differences in sound are quite distinct, with the Chiikawa excelling in brightness and the SU leaning towards a muted resonance.
When considering the feel, the Chiikawa - 45g switch is known for its very light actuation force, making it notably responsive for quick typing sessions. This lightness can facilitate effortless keystrokes, appealing to those who enjoy rapid and unencumbered typing. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch's feel is currently unspecified; however, the unique characteristics of the switch typically cater to users who appreciate a smoother and perhaps slightly sturdier keystroke. While the exact physical sensations during typing may differ, how each switch performs under various typing pressures can significantly influence the typing experience.
In summary, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch delivers a bright sound profile coupled with a very light feel, making it suitable for fast and dynamic typing. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch offers a deeper sound and potentially a different tactile sensation, appealing to those who might value a quieter, smoother keystroke experience. Both switches have characteristics that cater to different preferences, leading to personal choice ultimately dictating which will provide the best typing experience for any individual user.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a lively and engaging typing experience with a bright sound profile, the Chiikawa - 45g is an excellent choice, especially given its responsive actuation and medium-light bottom-out force of 51 grams, which strikes a nice balance between ease of actuation and satisfying feedback. This makes it particularly suitable for gaming or fast-paced typing sessions where quick response is key. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more subdued sound and a gentler actuation force, the HMX SU switch is a great alternative. Its full PA12 housing and deeper sound profile create a different auditory experience, while the lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams offers a softer touch, making it ideal for those who enjoy extended typing sessions without fatigue. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style, whether you seek a vibrant and energetic interaction with every keystroke or a soft, controlled experience that keeps your hands comfortable over longer periods.
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