Bsun Akashi vs. KTT Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the KTT Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Akashi and the KTT Cream Yellow stand out as top contenders in the linear switch category. The Bsun Akashi is revered for its smoothness and unique sound profile, thanks to its UPE stem and hybrid housing combo of POM top and nylon bottom. On the other hand, the KTT Cream Yellow is known for its distinctively clacky sound and bouncy typing feel, attributed to its shortened bottom-out distance and lengthened spring. Both switches offer a range of attributes like clacky sound, easy-to-press sensation, and polished feel, making them popular choices for enthusiasts. 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
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the KTT Cream Yellow switches offer contrasting sound profiles due to the differences in materials used. The POM top housing of the Akashi creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Cream Yellow produces a sharper and crisper sound. This difference is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate compared to POM, resulting in a more resonant sound for the Cream Yellow switch. However, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, leading to a similar deep and fuller sound profile for typing on both switches.
In terms of aesthetics, the housing materials of the Akashi and the Cream Yellow also differ. The Cream Yellow's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects, while the Akashi's POM top housing does not offer the same level of transparency. This can influence the overall look and feel of the switches when used in conjunction with other components in a keyboard setup. Additionally, the use of different materials for the top and bottom housings of the switches can affect the typing experience, with the bottom housing primarily influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing impacting the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the KTT Cream Yellow switches offer unique sound profiles and aesthetic qualities, their use of nylon for the bottom housing results in a similar deep and fuller sound experience when typing on either switch. The contrasting qualities of POM and polycarbonate in the top housing of each switch contribute to their distinct sound profiles, with POM providing a more muted sound on the Akashi and polycarbonate producing a crisper sound on the Cream Yellow. These differences in housing materials can influence the overall typing experience and customization options available for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch to the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch, it is evident that there is a notable difference in weight. The Akashi has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Cream Yellow has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams. The Akashi provides a lighter typing experience, which may be preferable for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier force, appealing to individuals who prefer a stronger push feel. In the end, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch, it is evident that the Cream Yellow has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Akashi's 3.7 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for their quicker response times, the Cream Yellow offers a slightly shallower press. Gamers who prefer a more responsive feel may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Cream Yellow, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Akashi. Ultimately, both switches provide similar results in terms of travel distance, with only a minimal variation between the two.
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 KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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 KTT Cream Yellow switches are described as having a "clacky" sound profile, producing sharp and snappy sounds when pressed. The Akashi's unique design with a UPE stem and hybrid housing creates a bright, crisp bottom-out sound, while the Cream Yellow's shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem contribute to a distinctively clacky sound. Ultimately, the sound produced by both switches will provide a satisfying auditory experience, with slight variations depending on factors like the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Akashi switch offers a range of descriptors such as "creamy," "frictionless," "polished," "silky," "snappy," and "easy-to-press," indicating a smooth, refined, and responsive typing experience with minimal resistance and a fluid key travel. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow switch is described as "bouncy," providing a spring-like feedback sensation that gives keys a lively rebound when pressed. While the Akashi promises a variety of smooth and effortless typing experiences, the Cream Yellow offers a unique bouncy feel that may appeal to users looking for a more dynamic key press sensation.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Akashi and KTT Cream Yellow switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While both switches are described as having a "clacky" sound profile, the Akashi provides a resonant experience with a bright bottom-out sound, whereas the Cream Yellow offers a distinctively clacky sound with a bouncy feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will boil down to personal preference and the typing experience you are seeking, but rest assured that both switches will deliver quality results in their respective sound and feel qualities.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the BSUN Akashi linear switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch, consider your preference for typing feel and sound. If you enjoy a smooth and buttery typing experience with a frictionless and polished feel, the Akashi may be the right choice for you. Its unique sound profile with a bright and crisp bottom-out adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that provides a bouncy and lively feel with a distinctively clacky sound, the Cream Yellow could be more to your liking. Its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem contribute to a resonant audio feedback that enhances the typing sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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