Bsun Akashi vs. Gateron CAP Anniversary
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron CAP Anniversary switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron CAP Anniversary mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Bsun Akashi stands out for its redefined tactile feedback, featuring a UPE stem for smoothness and a POM top with a nylon bottom housing combo that creates a distinctive sound profile. Known for being 'clacky', 'creamy', 'frictionless', 'polished', 'silky', 'snappy', and 'easy-to-press', these switches provide a resonant experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switches are praised for their exceptionally smooth keystrokes, thanks to a novel CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem with tiny holes for reduced resistance. Categorized as 'snappy', 'creamy', and 'polished', these switches offer stability and minimal wobble for an elevated typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences and typing styles. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
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
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Akashi and the Gateron CAP Anniversary both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Akashi utilizes a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the CAP Anniversary opts for a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound. Additionally, the Akashi's nylon bottom housing provides a fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, similar to the nylon bottom housing of the CAP Anniversary. While both switches feature nylon in their bottom housings, the different top housing materials of POM and polycarbonate offer distinct auditory experiences for users.
In terms of aesthetics, the CAP Anniversary's polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. On the other hand, the Akashi's POM top housing may not offer the same level of visual customization, but it provides a uniquely satisfying sound experience with its deeper tone. Both switches maintain a classic appeal with the use of nylon in their bottom housings, contributing to a fuller sound profile that is appreciated by enthusiasts. Despite the differences in top housing materials, the shared material of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel between the two switches.
When comparing the impact of top and bottom housings on the overall typing experience, it becomes evident that the qualities of each material are distributed accordingly. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key. The combination of POM and nylon in the Akashi and polycarbonate and nylon in the CAP Anniversary showcase how different housing materials can work together to create a unique typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Despite these variations, the switches ultimately offer similar results in terms of sound profile and typing feel due to the foundational use of nylon in their bottom housings.
Weight
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. In comparison, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, offering a more substantial and tactile typing feel. The Akashi is ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the CAP Anniversary is better suited for users who enjoy a more deliberate and forceful keystroke. Both switches provide distinct typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, ensuring that users can choose the option that best suits their preferences.
Travel distance
In comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch, we can see that the Akashi has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the CAP Anniversary has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Akashi has a shorter travel distance compared to the CAP Anniversary. With a 0.3 mm difference, the Akashi may provide a slightly faster response time for gamers who prioritize quick keystrokes. On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary's slightly longer travel distance may offer a more satisfying depth for users who prefer a more deliberate keystroke. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular for their responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize speed or depth in your typing experience.
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 Gateron CAP Anniversary has an MSRP of $4.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CAP Anniversary for $4.10.
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 Akashi linear switch offers a unique experience with a clacky sound profile, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch are not provided, but it can be assumed that its novel CAP structure may result in a smoother and possibly quieter sound during typing. Ultimately, the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by external factors like the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Bsun Akashi linear switch is described with various descriptors such as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press. This indicates a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance, enhanced smoothness, reduced friction, and increased responsiveness. Similarly, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch is also noted for its snappy, creamy, and polished feel, suggesting a responsive and smooth typing experience with reduced friction and refined key travel. With both switches offering similar qualities such as creaminess and snappiness, users can expect comparable typing experiences in terms of feel.
In conclusion, the Bsun Akashi linear switch stands out for its distinct sound profile with a clacky sound, while providing a smooth and responsive typing experience with various feel descriptors. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch offers a unique CAP structure for exceptionally smooth keystrokes and a similar smooth and responsive feel experience. Both switches bring innovative designs and qualities to the table, catering to different preferences in sound and feel, ultimately providing users with a customized and satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch, consider the specific qualities each switch offers. If you are looking for a light and smooth typing experience with a unique sound profile, the Akashi may be the better choice for you. The Akashi's creamy, frictionless, and easy-to-press feel combined with its clacky sound makes for a tactile and auditory delight with each keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with exceptional smoothness and stability, the CAP Anniversary might be more suitable for you. The CAP Anniversary's snappy, creamy, and polished feel provides a responsive and buttery typing experience, accompanied by a satisfying sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for typing feel, sound, and overall typing experience.
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