Bsun Akashi vs. Akko V3 Crystal Pro
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Akashi and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Bsun Akashi, a linear switch, is renowned for its smooth tactile feedback attributed to the UPE stem and hybrid housing design comprising POM top and nylon bottom. This results in a distinctive sound profile characterized by a bright, crisp bottom-out and rich acoustics. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro, also a linear switch, stands out with its fully polycarbonate construction, delivering a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. While the Bsun Akashi is lauded for its clacky, creamy feel, and easy-to-press nature, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro offers a bouncy and polished typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your preference for sound, feel, and typing style. 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
48g
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
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Akashi and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Akashi features a POM top housing, which creates a deep and muted sound profile, while the V3 Crystal Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper and crisper sound. Similarly, the Akashi's nylon bottom housing elicits a deep and full sound, in contrast to the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Despite the differences in materials, both switches offer a range of sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
In terms of aesthetics, the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. The translucent nature of polycarbonate is specifically useful for showcasing RGB lighting, making it a popular choice for those looking to personalize their setup. On the other hand, the Akashi's POM and nylon housings offer a more traditional look, with a focus on creating a pleasing sound experience. Both switches prioritize functionality and performance, catering to users who value either sound quality or visual customization in their keyboards.
When considering the overall typing experience, the combination of different housing materials in the Bsun Akashi and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro provides a unique feel that combines the qualities of each material. The bottom housing impact greatly affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound profile or a sharper, crisper sound, both switches offer a balance of attributes that cater to various typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Akashi is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. The Akashi has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro has a higher actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. The Akashi would be ideal for users looking for a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the V3 Crystal Pro would cater to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer different typing experiences, so choosing between them would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. However, the difference of 0.1 mm between the two switches may not be noticeable to most users. Ultimately, your preference for a shorter or longer travel distance will depend on how you like the feel of the keypress - whether you prefer a quick and snappy response or a more deliberate and satisfying key press. Either way, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to more traditional switches.
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 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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 is best characterized as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is noted for its chirpy sound signature, adding a little squeak to the overall acoustic experience. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the Akashi's clacky nature contrasts with the chirpy tone of the V3 Crystal Pro. It ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound preference, as both switches deliver distinct auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the BSUN Akashi switch offers a creamy typing experience, providing a smooth and buttery sensation that feels like effortlessly gliding across the keys. Additionally, it is described as frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press, showcasing a range of qualities that enhance the typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switch is characterized as bouncy and polished, offering spring-like feedback and a sleek typing experience. While both switches prioritize smoothness in their typing feel, the Akashi leans towards a more effortless and seamless sensation, while the V3 Crystal Pro emphasizes a lively rebound effect. Again, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in typing feel.
In conclusion, both the BSUN Akashi linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Akashi delivers a clacky sound and a creamy, smooth typing experience, while the V3 Crystal Pro provides a chirpy sound and a bouncy, spring-like feel. It ultimately depends on the individual's preferences in sound and typing sensation, as both switches excel in providing a unique and engaging mechanical keyboard experience. Regardless of choice, users can expect a high level of quality and performance from either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a unique, resonant typing experience with a creamy, frictionless, or polished feel, the Akashi may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a bright, chirpy sound with a bouncy or polished feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro could be the switch for you. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what characteristics you value most in a keyboard switch.
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