Bsun Chiikawa - 45g vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile 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 Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile present two distinct options that cater to different typing preferences. The Chiikawa - 45g is a linear switch renowned for its lightweight actuation force and bright sound profile, providing a responsive, airy typing experience coupled with a crisp, high-pitched sound that can be exhilarating for those who enjoy auditory feedback. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile switch offers a more nuanced experience, featuring a snappy and perceptible tactile bump that enhances typographical feedback while maintaining a neutral sound signature, making it ideal for users who appreciate a bit of texture without overwhelming noise. Both switches bring unique characteristics to the table, with the Chiikawa appealing to those who prioritize speed and sound, while the WS Light Tactile caters to users who seek a balanced tactile response and a quieter operation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
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
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile both feature polycarbonate top housings, which significantly influence their sound characteristics. The shared material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This commonality ensures that both switches deliver a more refined auditory experience when keys are released. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting effects, creating vibrant illumination that enhances the aesthetics of both switches. As a result, users can expect a cohesive experience in terms of sound and visual appeal when utilizing either option.
Contrasting the top housings, both models utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which adds a distinctive depth to the acoustic profile. The softer nature of nylon leads to a rounder and fuller sound, absorbing noise that the harder polycarbonate cannot. This combination creates a unique tonal interplay, where the Chiikawa - 45g and the WS Light Tactile exhibit distinct sound signatures. While the polycarbonate top ensures a crisp release sound, the nylon bottom gives a satisfying, muffled bottom-out sound, thus enhancing the overall typing experience. The blend of materials in both switches produces harmonious results, despite their different properties.
Overall, the Chiikawa - 45g and the WS Light Tactile showcase a thoughtfully engineered synergy between their respective materials. By integrating polycarbonate for the top and nylon for the bottom, both switches effectively balance clarity and depth, resulting in a well-rounded user experience. This dual-material structure allows the switches to produce a satisfying auditory feedback that caters to both gaming and typing needs. Consequently, users can confidently select either switch, knowing that they will enjoy a similar sound experience, characterized by crisp highs and resonant lows, making both options appealing choices in tactile switch design.
Weight
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch present an interesting comparison in terms of force specifications. Both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning users will experience a similar ease of keystroke activation, making them both suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly, with the Chiikawa switch reaching 51 grams and the WS Light Tactile at 50 grams. This means the Chiikawa switch delivers a slightly heavier feel just before the switch bottoms out, resulting in a necessary additional resistance at the end of the keypress. Consequently, the Chiikawa switch is marginally heavier overall, appealing more to those who prefer a stronger tactile response, while the WS Light Tactile offers a lighter experience. Therefore, users looking for a more substantial push feel might choose the Chiikawa, while those who favor a softer touch might lean towards the WS Light Tactile.
Travel distance
The Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference in travel distance highlights the preferences between users who seek responsiveness and those who value a more traditional typing experience. The shorter travel distance of the Chiikawa switch may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile switch's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for typists who enjoy a fuller keystroke. Therefore, if you prefer a snappier feel, the Chiikawa switch would be more suitable, while those who appreciate a heavier tactile feedback may gravitate towards the WS Light Tactile switch.
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 Light Tactile comes in at $4.20 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 Chiikawa - 45g linear switch stands out with its bright sound profile, producing a crisp, high-pitched noise that adds an auditory identity to each keystroke. This distinctive sound can be particularly satisfying for users who enjoy a lively typing experience. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile switch features a neutral sound signature, presenting a more moderate auditory feedback that is suitable for both casual users and those in professional environments. This versatility makes the WS Light Tactile a discreet choice for offices or shared spaces where noise levels may need to be kept in check.
When it comes to feel, the Chiikawa - 45g switch is characterized by its very light actuation force, allowing for an effortless typing experience. Users can expect a smooth and responsive feel, which contributes to a comfortable typing rhythm. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch presents a stepped tactile feedback, combining a perceptible bump with gentle resistance. This design enables a clear indication of actuation while maintaining an easy-to-press quality, making it an excellent option for long typing sessions without inducing fatigue. The tactile bump promotes a satisfying interaction, distinct from the smoothness of linear switches.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Chiikawa excels in producing a bright sound profile and a lightweight feel, ideal for those who appreciate a lively input method. Meanwhile, the WS Light Tactile fosters a versatile tactile experience with its neutral sound and comfortable exploration of tactile feedback. Choosing between them ultimately depends on whether you prioritize sound signature or tactile sensation in your typing experience, but both switches will yield enjoyable results in their own right.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Chiikawa - 45g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the context in which you plan to use your keyboard. If you appreciate a nimble and responsive feel, along with a bright, crisp sound, the Chiikawa - 45g may be your ideal pick. This switch shines in fast-paced gaming scenarios or when you enjoy a lively typing experience, thanks to its light actuation force and engaging auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a more nuanced typing experience with a pronounced yet controlled tactile bump, the WS Light Tactile is likely more suited for you. Its slight tactile feedback allows for accuracy in typing without compromising on a smooth keystroke, making it an excellent choice for both work and casual use. Additionally, its neutral sound profile and easy pressability support comfortable typing, especially during longer sessions. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you favor a more dynamic typing experience or a balanced, tactile feel, allowing you to tailor your mechanical keyboard setup to your unique needs.
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