Bsun Akashi vs. Gateron CM
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron CM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron CM. The Bsun Akashi is a linear switch that boasts a unique design with a UPE stem and a hybrid housing combination of POM and nylon, resulting in a distinct sound profile that is both bright and rich. On the other hand, the Gateron CM, also a linear switch, stands out with its full nylon housing and factory-lubed components, providing a smooth and gliding typing experience thanks to its lengthened, dual-staged spring. While the Akashi is described as 'clacky' and 'easy-to-press', the CM is labeled as 'buttery' and 'low-pitched'. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
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
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron CM, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. This similarity means that typing on both switches will produce a similar sound experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. However, the Akashi stands out with its POM top housing, which creates a more muted and deeper sound profile compared to the CM's nylon top housing. This difference in top housing material may result in a slightly different sound when releasing a key between the two switches.
The use of POM for the top housing in the Bsun Akashi provides a unique sound profile that is deeper and more muted compared to the classic nylon top housing of the Gateron CM. This difference in material impacts the overall sound experience of typing on these switches, with the Akashi offering a more distinctive sound quality. On the other hand, both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile that is duller and rounder in nature. This similarity ensures that the bottom-out sound and feel of typing on these switches will be consistent.
In conclusion, while both the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron CM utilize nylon for their bottom housing to create a similar sound experience in terms of depth and fullness, the Akashi stands out with its unique POM top housing that offers a more muted and deeper sound profile. The difference in top housing material results in a slightly different sound when releasing a key between the two switches, with the Akashi providing a more distinctive sound experience compared to the CM. Overall, the choice of housing materials plays a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and feel of mechanical switches, offering enthusiasts a variety of options to suit their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron CM linear switch, it is evident that they vary significantly in terms of weight. The Akashi has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron CM switch is heavier, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, offering a more substantial and defined keystroke. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel, the Akashi switch would be the preferred choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Gateron CM switch would be more suitable for individuals seeking a firmer and more pronounced keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with lighter switches like the Akashi being ideal for extended use and heavier switches like the CM providing a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard. Gamers may prefer the Akashi switch for its slightly shorter distance, providing a faster response time during gameplay. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper key press may opt for the Gateron CM switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Overall, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, with the Akashi being slightly shorter than the CM.
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 CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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
When it comes to sound, the Bsun Akashi linear switch is characterized by a clacky sound, offering a sharp and snappy tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron CM linear switch presents a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deeper and richer acoustic experience. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Akashi delivering a brighter tone while the CM offers a deeper resonance.
Moving on to feel, the Bsun Akashi linear switch is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a silky sensation that enhances the overall smoothness of keystrokes. It is also noted for being frictionless, polished, and easy-to-press, providing a range of tactile sensations for users. Similarly, the Gateron CM linear switch is described as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless, offering a seamless and uniform typing sensation that minimizes resistance and enhances typing comfort. Both switches prioritize smoothness and ease of typing, ensuring a satisfying tactile experience for users.
In conclusion, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron CM linear switch each offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Akashi provides a clacky sound and a creamy typing experience, the CM offers a bassy sound profile and a buttery keystroke sensation. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, users can choose between these switches to achieve their desired typing experience. Overall, both switches promise a high-quality typing experience with their respective sound and feel attributes, ensuring a pleasant and satisfying performance for keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron CM linear switch, you should consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams and a clacky sound profile with a creamy, frictionless, and polished typing feel, the Bsun Akashi might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams and a bassy, thocky, low-pitched sound profile with a buttery, polished, and frictionless typing feel, the Gateron CM linear switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on personal taste and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
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