Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and Bsun Taichi both offer unique attributes that cater to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. The Chiikawa - 45g, renowned for its bright sound profile and very light actuation force, delivers an exceptionally responsive typing experience accompanied by a crisp, high-pitched sound. This switch might appeal to users who prioritize speed and auditory feedback in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi stands out with its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, thanks to its long-pole stem, extended springs, and walled design, which provide unparalleled smoothness and stability. This switch is likely ideal for those who seek a blend of acoustic satisfaction and a consistent tactile experience. While both switches provide a linear feel, the choice ultimately hinges on whether you value a lighter, more reactive typing experience or a smooth, stable one with rich sound. 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
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
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Bsun Taichi both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which imparts a distinctly sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile to the switches. This similarity is attributed to the material's inherent properties; polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that lends clarity and resonance to the sound produced by the switch. Additionally, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, which not only enhances their aesthetic appeal but also complements RGB lighting effects. As a result, users of either switch can expect a consistent visual and auditory performance, especially when it comes to illuminating the keycaps effectively.
In terms of their bottom housings, the Chiikawa - 45g and the Taichi both utilize nylon, a traditional choice known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs sound more efficiently compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing. This shared characteristic ensures that both switches deliver a similarly satisfying typing experience at the lower end of the sound spectrum, despite the differences in the top housing. Consequently, users can anticipate a harmonious balance between the crisp sounds of the upper housing and the richer tones provided by the nylon bottoms.
The interplay between the top and bottom housings in both the Chiikawa - 45g and the Taichi highlights how these two materials can complement each other effectively. While the polycarbonate top housing enhances the acoustics during key release, the nylon bottom housing shapes the bottom-out sound and feel. This dual-material construction guarantees that regardless of whether you choose the Chiikawa - 45g or the Taichi, the overall experience will encompass a crisp, clear sound alongside a deeper resonance. Those seeking a switch that harmonizes visual aesthetics with a rich auditory experience will find both options to be equally appealing.
Weight
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation forces. The Chiikawa has a specified actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Taichi switch features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams; however, its bottom out force is currently listed as unavailable, limiting a comprehensive comparison. Based on the actuation forces, the Chiikawa switch is the heavier option, while the Taichi is the lighter choice. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended use or gaming, the Taichi's lower actuation force may be more appealing, while the Chiikawa provides a slightly more substantial feel, which some typists may favor for a more engaging tactile experience. Overall, selecting between these two switches boils down to personal preference regarding the weight and feel of the switches during use.
Travel distance
Both the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch have an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on the keys of either switch, as both offer the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Since they share this travel distance, typing and gaming experiences will likely feel comparable, allowing for personal preference to dictate the choice between the two rather than differences in performance.
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 Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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 characterized by its bright, crisp, and high-pitched sound profile. This makes it particularly responsive and pleasing for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi linear switch offers an enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, attributed to its long-pole stem and other design features that contribute to a distinct acoustic experience. While both switches present a high-pitched sound, the Chiikawa focuses on a sharp, clear tone, whereas the Taichi incorporates a deeper, more nuanced quality at the bottom-out point, potentially offering a richer auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 45g linear switch is recognized for its very light actuation force, making it a nimble option that requires minimal effort to activate. This can be especially beneficial for extended typing sessions as it reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the Taichi switch is built for a slightly more stable and smooth experience, due in part to its extended springs and walled stems, which contribute to an overall sense of refinement as you type. While both switches can provide a satisfying linear feel, the Chiikawa leans towards a more effortless actuation, while the Taichi focuses on delivering a smoother ride through its advanced engineering.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and Bsun Taichi linear switches offer unique sound profiles and distinct typing experiences, tailored to different preferences. While the Chiikawa excites with its bright sound and lightweight feel, the Taichi impresses with its enchanting bottom-out sound and superior smoothness. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize agility and responsiveness or stability and sophistication, as each switch provides a compelling option for a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and needs. If you prioritize a responsive feel with a medium-light actuation, the Chiikawa - 45g is an excellent choice. Its 51-gram bottom-out force provides a satisfying typing experience, especially if you enjoy a lighter touch with crisp, high-pitched acoustics that enhance your feedback as you type. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a snappier sound profile and may type rapidly or engage in gaming scenarios that benefit from quick actuation. On the other hand, if you seek a smoother and more stable typing experience, the Taichi switch, with its extended springs and long-pole stem, delivers unparalleled smoothness that also adds an enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound. This switch is great for users who appreciate a premium feel and sound design, likely appealing to those who value a consistent experience over extended typing sessions. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal preferences regarding sound and feel, balancing the need for responsiveness against a desire for smoothness and stability.