Bsun Akashi vs. HMX Blue Topaz
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the HMX Blue Topaz switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Akashi and the HMX Blue Topaz both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Akashi stands out for its smooth UPE stem and hybrid housing combination, delivering a distinct sound profile and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Blue Topaz boasts an incredibly smooth actuation and lightweight feel, paired with a visually appealing glitter housing. While the Akashi is praised for its resonant experience and precise keystrokes, the Blue Topaz offers a seamless typing experience with a touch of flair. 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
37g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
POM
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 extended spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the HMX Blue Topaz switches offer distinct characteristics that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The POM top housing of the Akashi creates a deep and muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Blue Topaz produces a sharp and clear sound. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate material used in the Blue Topaz allows for translucency, making it ideal for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of both switches provides a classic sound profile that is deep and full, due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound.
While the top and bottom housings of the Akashi and Blue Topaz switches share the same material for the bottom housing (nylon), they differ in their top housing materials (POM for Akashi, polycarbonate for Blue Topaz). The split in housing materials between the top and bottom affects the overall sound and feel of the switch when typing. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing the key. This distinction in material composition allows for a nuanced experience when using these switches.
In summary, the Akashi and Blue Topaz switches showcase the differences that housing materials can make in sound profiles. The POM top housing of the Akashi results in a deeper and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Blue Topaz produces a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, offering a classic sound profile that is deep and full. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom housings allows for a unique typing experience with each switch, catering to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The Bsun Akashi linear switch and the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch both offer relatively light actuation and bottom out forces compared to other switches on the market. The Akashi has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. Both switches provide a light typing experience, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch. However, the Blue Topaz does require slightly more force to actuate and bottom out compared to the Akashi, making it the slightly heavier option between the two. Overall, whether you choose the Akashi or the Blue Topaz, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, making it slightly shorter than the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch with a travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular in keyboards. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the switch with the longer travel distance. Overall, both switches offer a different feel in terms of key travel, catering to different preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Akashi has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Akashi for $3.70.
The HMX Blue Topaz has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Topaz for $3.49.
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, both the Bsun Akashi and the HMX Blue Topaz switches are described as having a clacky sound profile, producing sharp and snappy sounds when pressed. The sound can be characterized as crisp, bright, and percussive. The unique materials and design of each switch contribute to their distinct sound signatures, offering users a satisfying auditory experience with every keystroke.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Akashi is described as offering a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. These descriptors indicate that the Akashi switch provides a smooth and effortless typing feel with reduced friction, enhanced responsiveness, and minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Blue Topaz switch is noted for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and providing a light actuation force that makes typing comfortable and low-impact. While the two switches offer slightly different tactile experiences, both prioritize ease of use and user comfort during extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Bsun Akashi and HMX Blue Topaz switches may have different sound profiles and tactile feelings, but they both excel in providing users with a satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer a creamy and snappy feel or an easy-to-press and gentle experience, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both in your mechanical keyboard switch selection.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Bsun Akashi linear switch or the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a switch with a unique sound profile and a tactile feedback that offers a resonant experience with each keystroke, then the Akashi would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a super smooth actuation, lightweight feel, and an easy-to-press typing experience, then the Blue Topaz would be the better option. Both switches offer their own distinct advantages, so it's important to consider what aspects of typing feel and sound are most important to you before making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Akashi and Blue Topaz switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
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