Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch for your typing style, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and TTC Venus are two linear options that stand out for their distinct characteristics. The Chiikawa - 45g is renowned for its very light actuation force and bright sound profile, offering a lively and responsive typing experience that produces a crisp, high-pitched sound with each keystroke. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more tactile feedback and an energetic typing environment. On the other hand, the TTC Venus switch is designed with an internal structure that provides a smooth and frictionless glide, along with a delightful "Q-texture" that mimics the experience of indulging in chewy mochi or tapioca pearls. While it allows for rapid and effortless typing, its muted sound signature creates a more subdued ambient noise, appealing to users who favor a quieter work setting. Both switches cater to unique preferences and typing styles, making them attractive options in their own right. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the TTC Venus both leverage distinct materials for their construction, leading to variations in their sound profiles and overall aesthetic appeal. The Chiikawa features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffer properties, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound characteristic. In contrast, the Venus utilizes a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted auditory experience. This divergence in materials highlights the impact of sound dynamics in keyboard switches, with the Chiikawa offering a more resonant sound profile ideally suited for RGB lighting due to its translucency, whereas the Venus focuses on a warming and softer tone, creating a unique auditory environment for users who prefer a less piercing sound.
Examining the bottom housings, the Chiikawa employs nylon while the Venus opts for polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing in the Chiikawa contributes to a fuller and deeper sound profile, enhancing the overall warmth and fullness when typing. Conversely, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Venus again emphasizes clarity and resonance, producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This combination of materials underscores how individual characteristics of the bottom housing can influence the overall typing experience: the Chiikawa’s thicker and sound-absorbing nylon contributes to a rounder feel, while the Venus’s choice of polycarbonate can lend itself to more energetic keystrokes.
In light of these differences, users can expect that the qualities of each switch will manifest distinctly based on their construction. For instance, when typing on the Chiikawa, the stifling nature of the nylon in the bottom housing contributes significantly to the sound and feel at bottom-out, providing a satisfying thock sound. On the other hand, the TTC Venus with a polycarbonate bottom will give a brighter and more pronounced auditory signature when keys are released. Therefore, while both switches provide merits in their unique sound profiles, the way they blend their top and bottom housing materials means that the final user experience will vary, leading to distinct outcomes despite the use of similar materials in certain aspects of their design.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, both exhibit similar actuation forces, with the Chiikawa requiring 45 grams and the Venus also requiring 45 grams to register a keystroke. This equivalence means that users will experience a similar level of resistance when pressing keys for typists or gamers seeking lighter switches for extended use. However, there is a slight difference in their bottom out forces; the Chiikawa has a bottom out force of 51 grams, while the Venus has a marginally higher bottom out force of 52 grams. This difference means that while both switches offer a medium-light feel for actuation, the Venus provides a slightly stiffer experience when fully depressed. Overall, both switches cater well to users who prefer a lighter touch, but the TTC Venus may appeal to those who like a bit more resistance at the bottom of the press.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, it is clear that the former features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, whereas the latter has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Chiikawa - 45g is the shorter option, making it ideal for users who favor quicker response times, such as gamers looking for enhanced performance. In contrast, the Venus, with its greater travel distance, may appeal to those who appreciate a more pronounced depth in their key presses, providing a fuller tactile experience. While both switches cater to different preferences, the shorter travel distance of the Chiikawa allows for a more immediate actuation, which some users may find more suitable, particularly in fast-paced scenarios.
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 TTC Venus has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Venus for $5.09.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g switch and the TTC Venus switch, notable differences emerge. The Chiikawa - 45g is characterized by its bright and crisp sound, producing a high-pitched auditory experience that many find engaging while typing. This makes it particularly responsive and enjoyable for those who prefer a lively interface. In contrast, the TTC Venus excels in delivering a muted sound signature, which creates a more subdued and low-pitched typing experience. The Venus switch minimizes the typical clackiness associated with mechanical keyboards, making it an appealing option for users seeking a quieter environment. Overall, if you prefer a more vibrant and pronounced sound, the Chiikawa would be your choice, whereas the Venus caters to those who appreciate a more tailored, softly resonant typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Chiikawa - 45g switch offers an incredibly light actuation force, resulting in a quick and responsive typing sensation. However, the specific qualitative attributes of its feel are less described in the available information. In contrast, the TTC Venus provides a rich tactile experience with descriptors such as buttery, gummy, and frictionless. Users can expect a seamless typing experience that feels smooth and effortless, akin to a gentle bounce upon bottoming out. The "Q-texture" of the Venus adds an additional layer of enjoyment, mirroring the delightful sensation of biting into mochi or tapioca pearls. Given these differences, the Chiikawa may appeal to those seeking a lightweight and responsive feel, while the Venus invites users to indulge in a plush, enjoyable typing journey.
In conclusion, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g switch and the TTC Venus switch present unique offerings that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Chiikawa stands out for those who relish a bright and responsive auditory feedback, while the Venus serves as a perfect choice for individuals desiring a quieter and more muted typing experience. When considering the feel, the Chiikawa delivers a light touch, whereas the Venus emphasizes a smoother, more tactile journey. Your choice between the two will hinge on your personal preferences for sound ambiance and tactile feedback during typing.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and use cases. If you prioritize a bright, responsive switch with a higher-pitched sound profile, the Chiikawa - 45g is a compelling option. Its light actuation force and medium-light bottom-out force make it ideal for gaming or fast-paced typing scenarios where quick response times are essential. Conversely, if you prefer a more subdued typing experience with a smooth and resilient feel, the TTC Venus is likely the better choice for you. Its low-pitched, muted sound profile and buttery, frictionless glide provide a calm environment perfect for long work sessions or shared spaces where noise might be a concern. In essence, opt for the Chiikawa when you want a lively, engaging typing experience and the Venus when you seek comfort and subtlety in your keystrokes.
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