Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Jerrzi Violet are two notable options, each catering to different preferences and typing styles. The Chiikawa - 45g, known for its light actuation force and bright sound profile, offers a highly responsive typing experience with a crisp, high-pitched sound that enthusiasts often find satisfying, especially for fast-paced typing or gaming. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet switches provide a gentle tactile feedback that many users appreciate for its smooth actuation and a pleasing, balanced sound signature. This makes the Violets a great choice for those who enjoy a tactile sensation without the distraction of excessive noise. While the Chiikawa appeals to users seeking speed and auditory engagement, the Violet excels in providing a calm yet responsive typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
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
3.70 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Jerrzi Violet switches exhibit notable similarities that impact both their sound profiles and aesthetics. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which is renowned for generating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Polycarbonate's inherent stiffness contributes to a clearer and more resonant auditory experience. Furthermore, the translucent quality of polycarbonate makes it a preferred choice for RGB lighting designs, allowing light to pass through effectively and enhance visual appeal. As a result, users can expect a bright and vivid interaction with their lighting setups in both switches.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both switches is made from nylon, a classic material that profoundly influences the overall sound profile of the switch. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively, thereby producing a deeper and fuller auditory experience. This characteristic leads to a duller and rounder sound when typing. The combination of a polycarbonate top and a nylon bottom allows users to experience a balanced performance, where the sharpness of the top and the richness of the bottom come together to create an engaging typing sound and feel in both the Chiikawa - 45g and the Jerrzi Violet.
Ultimately, the pairing of polycarbonate and nylon in both switches suggests that users can expect similar outcomes regarding typing sound and feel despite any external differences. While the Chiikawa - 45g and the Jerrzi Violet might be marketed as distinct products, the material choices contribute to a unified experience. The polycarbonate top will deliver a bright and crisp release sound, while the nylon bottom will enhance the bottom-out experience, leading to a harmonious typing experience characterized by clarity and depth in both models. Thus, enthusiasts and casual users alike can appreciate the unique and collective qualities of these switches, despite any branding differences.
Weight
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, which means they offer a similar feel upon the initial keystroke, making them equally suitable for users who prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out forces differ significantly: the Chiikawa switch’s bottom out force is 51 grams, while the Violet switch's bottom out force is unknown. This indicates that while both switches provide the same actuation sensation, the Chiikawa switch will require a slightly stronger push to fully engage, potentially providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer heavier switch options. Therefore, the Chiikawa - 45g is the heavier option due to its bottom out force, while the Jerrzi Violet remains lighter in that respect, offering a less defined bottoming out experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, it is apparent that they differ slightly, with the Chiikawa having a travel distance of 3.6 mm and the Violet measuring 3.7 mm. This means that the Chiikawa switch offers a shorter travel distance, which can be advantageous for gamers or users seeking faster response times. In contrast, the Violet’s 3.7 mm travel distance provides a deeper feel, making it more suitable for those who prefer a sturdier typing experience. While both switches fall within a range that is becoming increasingly popular, the slight difference suggests that users who prioritize quick key presses may prefer the Chiikawa, whereas those who appreciate a richer tactile experience may gravitate towards the Violet.
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 Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
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 sound profile of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch is characterized by a bright and crisp tone, producing a high-pitched sound that is responsive and makes typing feel lively. This auditory feedback can enhance the overall typing experience, especially for those who enjoy a more dynamic sound when pressing the keys. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch features a neutral sound signature that balances sound quality and actuation force. This means that the Violet switches do not lean towards being overly loud or too muted, making them versatile and suitable for various environments, whether in a quiet office or at home.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 45g is notable for its very light actuation force, allowing for quick and effortless keystrokes that can be appealing for those who prefer fast typing without much resistance. This can lead to a fluid and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Violet switches provide a gentle tactile feedback characterized by a stepped feel. This means that users will experience a satisfying bump at the key actuation point without an overwhelming tactile sensation, allowing for a comfortable typing experience that is great for long periods of use.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Jerrzi Violet switches offer distinct experiences centered around sound and feel. With the Chiikawa's bright and crisp sound coupled with its light actuation, and the Violet’s neutral sound and pleasing tactile feedback, both switches can cater to different preferences. Those looking for a lively auditory response may gravitate towards the Chiikawa, while those who desire a balanced and comfortable typing feel would likely enjoy the Violet. Ultimately, the right choice will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prioritize a light actuation force and a high-pitched, crisp sound when typing, then the Chiikawa switch would be an excellent option, especially if you're inclined towards fast-paced typing or gaming. Its medium-light bottom-out force makes it responsive, adding an element of excitement to your keystrokes. On the other hand, if you favor a smoother typing experience with a gentle tactile bump that provides distinct feedback without being overwhelming, the Jerrzi Violet is the better option. Its neutral sound and stepped tactile feel make it versatile enough for both work and leisure, appealing to a broad range of users from beginners to seasoned typists. Therefore, consider your personal preferences for feedback, sound, and the environments in which you will be using your keyboard when making your final decision.
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