Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Jwick Taro offer distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The Chiikawa - 45g is celebrated for its remarkably light actuation force and bright sound profile, resulting in a highly responsive typing experience with a crisp, high-pitched sound that many find energizing. In contrast, the Jwick Taro presents a cozy typing experience highlighted by a snappy, medium level of tactility, coupled with acute and crisp clacks, reminiscent of its subdued color scheme. While the Chiikawa is ideal for those who seek speed and a lively auditory feedback, the Taro's tactile feel may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced typing sensation with a balanced sound. Both switches have unique qualities that can enhance your keyboard experience, 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
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
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of both the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Jwick Taro are notably similar, utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom. The shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This consistent material choice ensures that users will experience similar auditory characteristics when pressing these switches. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting effects, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of keyboards featuring these switches. Both designs leverage the properties of polycarbonate to create a clear resonance that is visually striking and sonically pleasing, making them suitable for gaming or typing experiences that require both clarity and brightness.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing in both the Chiikawa - 45g and the Jwick Taro brings a distinct contrast in sound characteristics. While the polycarbonate top amplifies brightness, the nylon material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than the stiffer polycarbonate. This dual-material approach results in a well-rounded auditory experience that balances the sharpness of the top with the warmth of the bottom. When typing, users will notice that the impact of the bottom housing significantly affects the bottom-out sound and feel, allowing for a satisfying typing experience that combines both clarity and depth.
In summary, despite their different impacts, the collective use of polycarbonate and nylon in both switches leads to a remarkably similar auditory experience overall. The polycarbonate top in both models ensures a highly defined and resonant sound when keys are released, while the nylon bottom complements this by providing a rounded thump when bottoming out. This harmony of materials culminates in a cohesive performance that enhances both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Therefore, whether users choose the Chiikawa - 45g or the Jwick Taro, they are likely to appreciate a comparably satisfying typing and auditory experience, driven by the complementary properties of their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, a clear contrast emerges in their specifications. The Chiikawa switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it lighter and more suitable for extended typing sessions, while its bottom out force is 51 grams. In contrast, the Taro switch lacks a specified actuation force, which makes it difficult to directly compare this aspect, but it has a significantly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that users of the Chiikawa switch will experience a gentler typing experience, ideal for those who prefer less fatigue during long periods of use. Conversely, the Taro switch, with its heavier bottom out force, caters to users who favor a more robust feel with tangible resistance. Thus, while the Chiikawa is the lighter option, the Taro offers a more substantial push during keystrokes, appealing to different typing preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, a clear distinction can be made. The Chiikawa features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Taro has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that if you prioritize a speedier and more responsive typing experience, the Chiikawa switch might be the better option for you, as its shorter travel distance can lead to quicker actuation times, which is often favored by gamers. Conversely, if you prefer a more substantial feel with a bit more depth, the Taro's longer travel distance could provide that extra tactile feedback. Ultimately, while both switches fall within a similar range, the Chiikawa offers a marginal advantage for speed, whereas the Taro may cater to those seeking a more traditional typing experience.
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 Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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
When it comes to sound, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch stands out with its bright sound profile, delivering a crisp, high-pitched sound that many typists find invigorating. This makes it aesthetically pleasing for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch presents a more neutral sound profile characterized by acute and crisp clacks. This moderation allows the Taro to adapt well to various environments, whether used at home or in an office setting, providing a balanced auditory experience that won't overwhelm the user.
In terms of feel, the Chiikawa - 45g is noted for its very light actuation force, which leads to a highly responsive typing experience. However, specific subjective qualities regarding the tactile sensation of this switch aren't detailed. In contrast, the Taro tactile switch is designed to offer a buttery smooth experience, promoting fluid keystrokes without any hindrance, while also delivering a stepped tactile feedback. This means that with the Taro, users experience a clear distinction in the keystroke stages, providing a more controlled typing feel that some may find comforting compared to the less tactile Chiikawa.
In conclusion, both the Chiikawa - 45g and Jwick Taro switches offer unique qualities suited for different preferences. The Chiikawa excels in bright sound and lightness, appealing to those who favor a lively auditory input without much tactile response. Meanwhile, the Taro offers a balanced sound profile and a buttery yet stepped tactile experience, making it suitable for users who enjoy a tactile feedback without losing the fluidity in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between them will depend on the individual's typing style and desired sensory feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing habits. If you favor a lighter, more responsive typing experience with a bright sound profile, the Chiikawa - 45g may be your ideal option. Its medium-light actuation force and crisp, high-pitched sound make it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a fast-paced and energetic typing style, perfect for gaming or quick document edits. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feedback and a heavier keystroke, the Jwick Taro is likely the better fit. With its medium-heavy actuation force and buttery smooth yet stepped tactile feel, this switch provides a satisfying typing sensation that’s comforting for extended writing sessions and offers a cozy, neutral sound profile suitable for both home and workplace environments. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or comfort and tactile feedback in your typing experience.
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