Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out in the linear switch category are the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Gateron Type A. The Chiikawa - 45g is celebrated for its exceptionally light actuation force and bright sound profile, making it a favorite among typists who prioritize responsiveness and enjoy a crisp, high-pitched feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A is introduced as part of Sillyworks' innovative "Project Rehash" / SLAY series, boasting a medium-weight feel that provides a balanced typing experience. Its unique sound signature leans towards the deeper side, appealing to those who prefer a more subdued auditory feedback. Each switch offers distinct strengths: the Chiikawa for its agility and sharp sound, and the Type A for its balanced performance and luxurious factory lubrication. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that ultimately suits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and Gateron Type A switches offer distinct auditory experiences through their housing materials, which significantly influence their sound profiles. The Chiikawa - 45g utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which lends to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to the material's rigidity. This property allows sound waves to resonate more effectively, creating a clear auditory experience, especially beneficial for users intending to showcase RGB lighting through a translucent housing. In contrast, the Type A features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon’s softer composition absorbs more sound, culminating in a rounder tone that differs heavily from the Chiikawa's sharpness, illustrating how material choice greatly impacts the auditory perception of each switch.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Chiikawa - 45g and the Gateron Type A employ nylon. This choice means that when it comes to the bottoming-out sound and feel, users will experience a similar characteristic acoustics profile from both switches. Nylon's inherent sound-absorbing properties contribute to that deeper and more rounded sound overall, providing a uniformity in feel regardless of the top housing material. Hence, while the top housing distinctly separates the two switches in terms of sound quality, the shared bottom housing material ensures a harmonious element of both switches, allowing them to elicit a consistent auditory response when bottoms out.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Chiikawa - 45g presents a unique blend of crispness from the top and warmth from the bottom, while the Gateron Type A provides a full-body experience with a consistent depth stemming from its uniform nylon housing. The divergence in top housing materials highlights their differing sound profiles, yet the similarity in bottom materials does provide a degree of auditory synergy when considering the low-end response. Thus, while the Chiikawa - 45g may excel in clarity and brightness, and the Type A thrives in warmth and roundness, both switches will create satisfying yet distinct typing experiences shaped largely by their housing choices.
Weight
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch both offer a medium-light typing experience, but they differ in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Chiikawa switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams, while the Gateron Type A has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Chiikawa switch is the lighter option overall, making it potentially more suitable for users who prefer easier keystrokes for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A's heavier forces may provide that more substantial push feel desired by users who appreciate solid feedback from their keys. Overall, while both switches are categorized as medium-light, the Chiikawa offers a lighter touch compared to the Gateron Type A.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, there is a clear distinction. The Chiikawa switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Type A switch features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference suggests that the Chiikawa switch may offer a more responsive feel, which is often favored by gamers seeking quicker key presses for enhanced performance. On the other hand, some users may prefer the Type A switch’s longer travel distance as it provides a more traditional and hearty depth, potentially resulting in a more satisfying tactile experience. Therefore, for those who appreciate a shorter response time, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g is the better choice, whereas the Gateron Type A is ideal for users who enjoy a deeper, more deliberate key travel.
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 Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70 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
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch exhibits a bright sound profile, known for producing a crisp, high-pitched tone when typing. This characteristic makes it particularly engaging, appealing to those who enjoy a more audible typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Type A linear switch offers a deeper sound signature with a neutral to subdued tonal quality. It provides a more subtle acoustic experience, leaning toward a dampened noise level that can be appealing in quieter environments where distraction is a concern. While both switches have their unique sound profiles, the choice depends largely on personal preference; the Chiikawa is ideal for users who appreciate a lively auditory experience, while the Type A caters to those seeking a more understated sound.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Chiikawa - 45g is characterized by its very light actuation force, allowing for swift, responsive keystrokes that can enhance typing speed and reduce finger fatigue during long sessions. This lightweight feel lends itself to a fast-paced typing experience, making it a favored choice for gamers and typists who value speed. The Gateron Type A, on the other hand, is designed as a medium-weight switch, offering a balanced tactile response that is conducive to both typing and gaming scenarios. The combination of moderate resistance and a smooth linear action provides a comfortable experience, catering to users who prefer a switch that feels robust yet not overly taxing.
In summary, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and Gateron Type A linear switches each offer distinct auditory and tactile qualities that appeal to different user preferences. The Chiikawa stands out with its bright, crisp sound and very light feel, perfect for those looking for a responsive typing experience. Meanwhile, the Type A provides a deeper, more subdued sound and a balanced feel that suits a broader range of typing styles. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches will depend on whether you value an energetic typing sound and light touch versus a more muted acoustic experience and a medium resistance that provides a solid keypress.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch will largely depend on your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and the typing experience you desire. If you prioritize a very light actuation force and enjoy a brighter and crisper sound profile, the Chiikawa - 45g would be an excellent option, especially if you tend to type quickly or are looking for a switch that offers responsiveness without much resistance. This makes it ideal for gaming or fast-paced typing tasks where you need instant feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier feel and a more balanced sound that is not overly pronounced, then the Gateron Type A might be more suitable for you. Its deeper sound signature and moderate actuation force create a serene yet tactile typing experience that can be appreciated in both work and casual environments. Ultimately, your decision should align with how you plan to use your keyboard and the sensory feedback you find most enjoyable while typing.
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