Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Gazzew U4T

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Gazzew U4T stand out for their distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Chiikawa - 45g, known for its incredibly light actuation force of 45g, offers a linear experience that emphasizes a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, making it an excellent choice for those who favor rapid typing or gaming. Users will appreciate its bright sound profile, delivering a crisp, high-pitched auditory signature that enhances the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T offers a tactile switch experience defined by its harmonious blend of "thockiness" and sharp tactility. With a bassy sound and assertive feedback, every keystroke on the U4T provides both auditory and physical satisfaction, appealing to those who relish a more pronounced tactile response while typing. While both switches have their unique advantages—responsiveness and lightness in the Chiikawa versus the satisfying feedback of the U4T—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Bsun Chiikawa - 45g Linear

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Gazzew U4T, the distinct materials used for each switch's top housing create two different acoustic profiles. The Chiikawa - 45g features a polycarbonate top housing, which is recognized for its stiffness and transparency. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound, making it ideal for users who enjoy a crisp auditory feedback when typing. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances the effectiveness of RGB lighting, as it allows light to diffuse beautifully through the housing. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T utilizes a proprietary blend of plastics commonly referred to as “boba plastic,” which emphasizes a softer texture. This choice results in a richer and deeper sound profile that contrasts with the Chiikawa's more pronounced high frequencies, providing a warm tonal quality that some users may prefer.

Looking further into the bottom housing materials, both the Chiikawa - 45g and the Gazzew U4T utilize nylon and a proprietary blend, respectively. The nylon bottom housing of the Chiikawa offers a duller and rounder sound, contributing to a full-bodied acoustic response typically associated with classic switch materials. This absorption characteristic of nylon softens the bottom-out sound, leading to a more muted typing experience that some users find appealing. Meanwhile, the Gazzew U4T's bottom housing, made of a similarly soft proprietary blend, provides a closely parallel experience by also delivering a rich and deep sound profile. This similarity in housing softness fosters a softer impact during key presses for both switches, ensuring that both types cater to users who favor a deeper auditory and tactile response at the bottom of their keystrokes.

In combining the acoustic properties of both the top and bottom housings, users can expect varied yet complementary typing experiences from the Chiikawa - 45g and the Gazzew U4T. While the Chiikawa's top housing may produce a brighter and crisper sound during key release, its nylon bottom housing balances this with a more muted impact at the bottom-out. Conversely, the Gazzew U4T yields a fuller auditory experience with its soft top and bottom housings, likely delivering a warmer sound profile throughout the keystroke process. Ultimately, despite their differences, users can achieve similarity in results such as a rich and enjoyable typing experience by selecting either switch, depending on their individual preferences for sound profile and tactile feedback.

Weight

When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch to the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, there are clear distinctions in their forces. The Chiikawa requires an actuation force of 45 grams to register a keystroke, whereas the U4T has an unspecified actuation force, making it difficult to directly compare this aspect. However, the bottom out force of the U4T is notably higher at 65 grams compared to the Chiikawa's 51 grams. This means that while the Chiikawa is considered medium-light and offers a lighter typing experience, suitable for prolonged use during work or gaming, the U4T provides a more substantial feel due to its heavier bottom out force, appealing to those who prefer a firmer keystroke. Therefore, if you're looking for a lighter feel, the Chiikawa would be the better choice, while those seeking a heavier typing experience might gravitate towards the U4T.

Travel distance

The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gazzew U4T tactile switch features a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Chiikawa switch the shorter option, providing a quicker response that is often preferred by gamers seeking faster actuation times. On the other hand, the U4T's longer travel distance may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke and a tactile feedback that feels more pronounced. Consequently, if you value rapid responsiveness, the Chiikawa switch may suit your needs better, but if you favor a more deliberate typing experience with an in-depth feel, the U4T would likely be the preferable choice.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch stands out with its bright sound profile. The keystrokes produce a crisp, high-pitched sound that can be quite pleasing and feels light and responsive. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offers a deeper auditory experience with its rich, bassy 'thock' sound. The combination of thockiness and distinctive keystonal character provides a satisfying auditory feedback that resonates with each keystroke, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial sound from their switches. Ultimately, while the Chiikawa - 45g leans toward a higher pitch, the U4T is immersive with its bass-rich thock, which could be more satisfying depending on personal preference.

In terms of feel, the Chiikawa - 45g is characterized by a very light actuation force that results in a responsive experience, though it lacks specifying tactile feedback commonly associated with switches. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T excels with its sharp tactile feedback, delivering an assertive and pronounced bump with every keypress. This tactile sensation is particularly satisfying for typists who relish distinct feedback during their writing. The Chiikawa's lighter actuation might appeal to those who prefer effortless keystrokes, while the U4T caters to users seeking a more tactile experience.

In conclusion, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and Gazzew U4T switches present distinctly different sonic and tactile experiences. The Chiikawa is bright and light, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize speed and responsiveness, while the U4T offers a more robust and tactile feedback with a deep sound profile, appealing to users who appreciate a solid thock. Your choice between these switches will ultimately depend on whether you value a crisp, high sound with lighter feedback or a rich, thocky sound with pronounced tactile responses.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch depends largely on your preferences and typing habits. If you favor a lightweight and responsive typing experience, the Chiikawa - 45g is an excellent choice, delivering a crisp, high-pitched sound that enhances the feedback of your keystrokes without requiring much effort. This makes it particularly appealing for those who engage in fast-paced typing or gaming where quick actuation is essential. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more substantial tactile experience, the U4T’s higher actuation force and distinctive thocky sound profile can provide a satisfying auditory and tactile feedback with every keystroke. This makes it well-suited for typists who appreciate a pronounced bump and deeper acoustics, lending a sense of rhythm to their typing. Ultimately, your selection should align with whether you prioritize speed and lightness or prefer a pronounced tactile sensation and deeper sound.

Mentioned in this article

Bsun Chiikawa - 45g Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more