Bsun Akashi vs. Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch. The Bsun Akashi stands out for its unique design featuring a UPE stem, POM top, and nylon bottom housing, resulting in a distinct sound profile with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is known for its budget-friendly yet satisfying combination of a clacky sound and smooth tactile feel. While the Akashi offers a resonant experience and the Cream Yellow Pro provides a vibrant auditory experience, both switches are categorized as easy-to-press and snappy. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
20mm spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Akashi and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profile. The Akashi features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the V3 Cream Yellow Pro allows for a more resonant sound, especially when coupled with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Akashi's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Bsun Akashi and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro offer unique typing experiences. The split between the bottom and top housings allows for a combination of qualities in each switch. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is more pronounced, giving a deeper and fuller sound experience in both switches. However, the top housing's role is in the sound when releasing a key, with the POM top housing of the Akashi creating a relatively more muted sound compared to the crisper sound of the polycarbonate top housing in the V3 Cream Yellow Pro.
In terms of aesthetics, the housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro offer different visual experiences. The use of clear housing in the V3 Cream Yellow Pro indicates the presence of polycarbonate, contributing to a cleaner and more transparent look that is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the matte finish of the Akashi's housing may appeal to those looking for a more understated design. Despite their visual differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles thanks to their distinct housing materials, providing a personalized typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Akashi has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Akashi will provide a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for prolonged use, while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro will offer a more substantial typing feel. While both switches have their advantages, those who prefer a lighter typing experience should opt for the Akashi, while those who prefer a heavier push feel should choose the V3 Cream Yellow Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Bsun Akashi. The difference of 0.4 mm may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall feel and response of the switch when typing or gaming. Those who prefer a faster response time may lean towards the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro, while others who prefer a more substantial keypress may favor the Bsun Akashi. Both switches offer a balance between traditional and shallow travel distances, providing options for users based on their preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing or gaming 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 Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Yellow Pro for $2.00.
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 offers a unique and resonant experience with a bright and crisp bottom-out sound thanks to its UPE stem and hybrid housing design. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch provides a poppy and clacky sound right out of the box, catering to those who enjoy a vibrant auditory experience. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience depending on personal preference, board setup, and keycaps.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Akashi is known for its creamy and frictionless typing experience, providing smooth and effortless key presses that feel like gliding across the keys with ease. Additionally, the switch has a polished finish that adds to the sleek typing sensation it delivers. In contrast, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers an easy-to-press feel with gentle resistance, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The switch also has a feathery and bouncy quality that adds a light and lively touch to each keystroke. Both switches offer different tactile experiences that cater to a variety of preferences, allowing users to choose based on their desired typing feel.
In conclusion, the Bsun Akashi and Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switches offer unique sound and feel profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer a bright and resonant sound with a creamy and frictionless feel or a poppy and clacky sound paired with an easy-to-press and bouncy feel, both switches provide options for customization and personalization. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Bsun Akashi linear switch or the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, you should take into account your preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a clacky sound, and a creamy, frictionless typing experience, the Bsun Akashi linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force, an easy-to-press switch with a feathery feel, and a combination of poppy, clacky sound with polished smoothness, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you desire.
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