Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Durock T1 offer distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Chiikawa - 45g, a linear switch, stands out for its exceptionally light actuation force and bright sound profile, providing a responsive and crisp typing experience that many users find invigorating. This switch is ideal for those who prefer a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback, allowing for rapid typing with minimal resistance. In contrast, the Durock T1 is a tactile switch that features a satisfying medium bump during actuation, accompanied by a low-pitched sound reminiscent of raindrops on a windowpane. This tactile feedback not only enhances typing comfort but also allows users to feel when a keystroke has been registered, which is particularly beneficial for typists seeking precision and accountability in their keystrokes. Both switches have unique advantages, catering to different styles of typing; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Durock T1 switches are notably similar, with both switches featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This characteristic is particularly beneficial when it comes to enhancing the clarity of the sound produced during keystrokes. Moreover, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting applications, as it allows for vibrant illumination that highlights the aesthetic value of the keyboard. Therefore, users can expect a similar auditory experience and visual appeal from both switches, lending to a cohesive sound profile that is crisp and clear.
The choice of nylon for the bottom housing of both switches offers a contrast to the top housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is characterized as a softer plastic that tends to absorb more sound, resulting in a more muted and rounder auditory experience upon key activation. This material choice enhances the overall typing experience, particularly in how it affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. As such, users of both the Chiikawa - 45g and the Durock T1 will find that the combination of the higher-pitched sounds from the polycarbonate top and the fuller tones from the nylon bottom create a balanced auditory feedback that many typists and gamers alike enjoy.
When taken together, the similarities in housing materials between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Durock T1 produce a unified and distinct sound signature. The stiffer polycarbonate housings ensure clarity and responsiveness during typing, while the softer nylon bottoms offer a warm depth to the sound, contributing to an overall pleasant tactile feedback. Though the two switches possess distinct characteristics in their individual components, the combination of their shared materials ultimately enables users to achieve a familiar and enjoyable typing experience across both models. The synergistic effect of the housing materials highlights the importance of component choice in the nuances of sound and feel, showcasing how similar materials can yield comparable results.
Weight
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch present distinct characteristics when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. The Chiikawa switch features a defined actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams, categorizing it as medium-light, which facilitates long typing sessions with less strain on the fingers. In contrast, the T1 switch lacks a specified actuation force, but it has a bottom out force of 67 grams, marking it as medium-heavy. This suggests that the T1 requires a significantly stronger force to fully engage, appealing to those who favor a more robust and tactile experience during typing. Therefore, the Chiikawa - 45g switch is the lighter option, while the Durock T1 is heavier, making them suitable for different preferences in typing feel and endurance. If someone is looking for a balance between comfort and feedback, the Chiikawa would be more suitable, while the T1 would better serve those who appreciate a firmer, more substantial keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, it is clear that they differ, with the Chiikawa exhibiting a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the T1 measures a longer 4 mm. This indicates that the Chiikawa switch is the shorter option, appealing to those who prefer a quicker response, such as gamers who favor shorter travel distances for enhanced performance. On the other hand, the T1's longer travel distance may provide a more pronounced tactile experience, which can be preferred by users who enjoy a deeper, more substantial key press. Overall, while both switches offer unique characteristics suited to different preferences, the Chiikawa is better for those seeking rapid response times, whereas the T1 caters to those who appreciate a richer key feel.
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 Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 considering the sound profiles of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, they present quite contrasting auditory experiences. The Chiikawa switch is noteworthy for its bright and high-pitched sound, generating a crisp audio feedback that can be very satisfying for those who appreciate a lively typing experience. In contrast, the T1 embodies a more mellow and low-pitched sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. This creates a calming auditory environment, making it suitable for various settings, from an office to a home workspace. The overall moderation and bass-heavy characteristics of the Durock T1 may offer less distraction, compared to the sharper tones of the Chiikawa.
In terms of tactile feel, there are significant differences as well. The Chiikawa - 45g is characterized by a very lightweight actuation force, providing an effortless and responsive experience that encourages fast typing. Conversely, the T1 tactile switch offers a more nuanced feel with a medium bump during the actuation. This stepped tactile feedback provides a clear indication of when the key has registered, allowing for a satisfying typing experience that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The T1 switch also benefits from being polished, resulting in smoother key travel and a refined tactile sensation, making it comfortable over longer typing sessions.
In summary, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch stands out with its bright sound profile and lightweight feel, promoting a quick and responsive typing experience. The Durock T1 tactile switch offers a more subdued sound alongside a medium tactile bump, providing comfort and a refined finish. Ultimately, your preference between these two switches will depend on whether you lean towards a lively, swift typing style or a more grounded and tactile approach. Both switches represent distinct experiences that can cater to different user needs and environments.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a lighter touch and enjoy a quick, responsive feel, the Chiikawa - 45g might be the better option for you. Its medium-light actuation force makes it ideal for fast-paced typing or gaming, while its bright sound profile adds a crisp auditory experience that many find satisfying. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile experience with a noticeable bump and a slightly heavier feel, the Durock T1 is likely to suit your needs. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force, combined with the low-pitched, rain-like sound, creates a comfortable typing environment that can be enjoyable for longer sessions. Essentially, if you crave responsiveness and a lightweight keystroke, opt for the Chiikawa - 45g; but if you appreciate a rich texture and more feedback while typing, the Durock T1 would be your go-to switch.
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