I have both buns and chins, and yes, they are a ton of fun. They aren't as demanding (or disapproving) as rabbits, but are still a fair amount of work.
Chinchillas are very rarely happy alone. They live in large groups in the wild, so you'd want at least two. Bonding them isn't as tricky as with rabbits, the females at least are not too fussy, as long as they have company.
Their diets are quite similar to rabbits - hay and pellets. No veggies though, and fruit can be given as a treat, but must be dried.
You have to careful about housing them close to your buns though - rabbits may carry pasteurella, which can be fatal to chins. Separate rooms and play areas are recommended by HRS. They can also be very noisy at night, so you likely would want their house well away from your room.
They are much more destructive than buns, and free-range just isn't a possibility. So they need a proper cage, with mesh no more than 1/2" square (so no NIC). The Ferret Nation is generally regarded as the best. If you build, you can find plenty of plans and ideas online.
They require playtime - at least an hour out at the same time every day, they need a routine. You have to let them run in a chin-proof room. A bathroom is generally the best, as it usually has the least hazards and is easiest to clean up after. Chins poop an incredible amount - they make rabbits look like lightweights!
Like rabbits, many don't much care to be held. Most love a good forehead or chin rub, though. I have one who loves to sit on my lap. They are pretty smart - mine come when they're called and know a few words, like "kiss".
Playtime is great, they love racing around and will run up the wall and do backflips off of it. It's hilarious to watch them. And how can you not love an animal that says hello by winking at you?
Like buns, though, there are many homeless and unwanted chins. When you are ready to take the plunge, please go to your local shelter or rescues. You'll save some lives and no doubt end up being hooked on chins for life yourself!
