Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two noteworthy options to consider are the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch. The Chiikawa - 45g is celebrated for its bright sound profile and very light actuation force, making it an ideal choice for users who prioritize responsiveness and enjoy a crisp, high-pitched typing experience. In contrast, the WS Brown offers a balanced approach with its medium-light actuation force, combining responsiveness and comfort for those who engage in lengthy typing sessions. This tactile switch provides a familiar auditory feedback that enthusiasts appreciate, thanks to its nylon housing and POM stem. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on individual preferences for sound and typing feel—whether you crave the sharp clarity of the Chiikawa or the comforting tactile feedback of the WS Brown. 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
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Wuque Studio WS Brown, there are notable differences in their constructions that affect sound profiles and overall performance. The Chiikawa - 45g features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and translucency, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. This makes it particularly suitable for enhancing RGB lighting due to its clear characteristics. In contrast, the WS Brown utilizes a nylon top housing, a material revered for its softer nature that offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, resulting in a more rounded auditory experience. The choice of materials reflects differing priorities in their design, with the Chiikawa aiming for a vibrant and clear sound while the WS Brown seeks to deliver warmth and richness.
Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to their sound profiles in a similar manner. The use of nylon in both designs means that when typing, users will experience a duller and fuller bottoming-out sound, as nylon absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic composition. While the bottom housing characteristics are similar and lead to comparable results in terms of sound depth and feel, the divergence in the top housing materials is where a significant contrast arises. The joy of typing on these switches is informed by the interplay of materials: while the noise reduction provided by the nylon bottom is uniform across both models, the overall typing experience will differ based on each switch's upper housing composition.
When considering the overall impact of the housing materials on the acoustic and tactile experience, it becomes clear that the Chiikawa - 45g and WS Brown are tailored to differing user preferences. The polycarbonate top of the Chiikawa may yield a more engaging and defined auditory experience, especially beneficial for RGB setups, whereas the nylon top of the WS Brown offers a more subdued and plush feel, desirable for quiet work environments. Regardless of these differences, the presence of nylon at the bottom ensures that both switches maintain a consistent level of sound absorption, leading to a pleasing typing experience characterized by the lushness of their shared material. Thus, while they arrive at their results through different means, both switches can offer rewarding experiences, tailored to their intended use cases.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch with the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, we can observe some interesting differences 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, making it a medium-light option that's generally easier on the fingers, which can be advantageous for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the WS Brown has an unspecified actuation force, but it does have a bottom out force of 55 grams, which indicates that it requires a firmer press to register a keystroke fully. While both switches fall into the medium-light category, the Chiikawa is the lighter option overall. The heavier bottom out force of the WS Brown could provide a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer tactile feedback, but without knowing the actuation force for the WS Brown, it’s challenging to draw a direct comparison on that aspect. Ultimately, users seeking a lighter touch may gravitate towards the Chiikawa, whereas those preferring a firmer press might find the WS Brown appealing, despite the uncertainty around its actuation force.
Travel distance
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm highlights the Chiikawa's appeal for those seeking faster response times, making it a suitable choice for gamers who prioritize quick key presses. In contrast, the WS Brown's longer travel distance may be more appealing for users who prefer a deeper, more substantial feel when typing or gaming, offering a tactile feedback that some find more satisfying. Ultimately, if you prefer a switch that feels responsive and less abrupt, the Chiikawa is the better choice, whereas the WS Brown caters to those who enjoy a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes.
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 Wuque Studio WS Brown comes in at $3.50 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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g switch is characterized by its bright sound profile, producing a crisp, high-pitched tone that resonates during typing. This quality ensures a lively and engaging auditory feedback, making it particularly appealing for those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic experience. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Brown switch offers a familiar auditory experience that many enthusiasts cherish; it delivers a rich, balanced sound that aligns with the traditional tactile feedback of brown switches. While the Chiikawa's sound is sharper and more vibrant, the WS Brown provides a comforting, softer pitch that many find satisfying for longer use. It’s essential to keep in mind that factors such as the choice of keyboard plate and keycaps can also influence these sound characteristics.
Examining the feel of each switch reveals distinct differences. The Chiikawa - 45g is known for its very light actuation force, allowing for incredibly responsive typing with minimal effort. This lightness can make rapid typing feel effortless, but it can also lead to accidental key presses if not adjusted to. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Brown switch boasts a medium-light actuation force that balances responsiveness with comfort, offering a tactile bump that confirms actuation without being overly stiff. This tactile feedback can enhance the overall typing experience, providing a satisfying 'click' while allowing for fatigue-free typing during extended sessions.
In conclusion, the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and Wuque Studio WS Brown switches offer contrasting auditory and tactile experiences suited to different typing preferences. The Chiikawa is bright and light, making it excellent for quick and responsive movements, while the WS Brown provides a classic blend of comfort and tactile feedback for a more traditional typing experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver enjoyable typing experiences, whether you favor a more energetic and responsive touch or a balanced, comforting tactile response.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and intended usage. If you favor a light and responsive typing experience, the Chiikawa's lower actuation force and crisp, high-pitched sound profile make it an excellent choice, particularly for fast-paced typing or gaming scenarios where quick responses are critical. You will appreciate the switch's bright sound and effortless actuation during those rapid input sessions. On the other hand, if you're looking for a balance of responsiveness and comfort, especially during extended typing periods, the WS Brown's medium-light actuation force and tactile feedback will serve you well. The classic tactile bump and the satisfying sound it produces provide a familiar and pleasant auditory experience, making it ideal for typists who value feedback without being overly loud or harsh. In essence, choose the Chiikawa for swift action and bright sound or the WS Brown for a comfy, engaging typing experience.
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