Bsun Akashi vs. Dareu Dream
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Dareu Dream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the BSUN Akashi and the Dareu Dream can be a tough one. The BSUN Akashi linear switches are known for their unique tactile feedback, thanks to a UPE stem and a combination of POM top and nylon bottom housing. This design creates a satisfying sound contrast, offering a bright bottom-out with deep acoustic richness. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream linear switches are praised for their light and easy-to-press feel, making them a popular choice among enthusiasts looking for quality at an affordable price. While both switches offer different characteristics and benefits, it ultimately comes down to personal preference 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
40g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Dareu Dream, one can see clear differences in the sound profiles they produce. The Akashi's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Dream's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. This contrast in sound can drastically affect the typing experience, with the Akashi providing a more laid-back typing sound compared to the more pronounced sound of the Dream. However, both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housing, leading to a similar deep and fuller sound profile when typing on them.
In terms of material properties, POM and polycarbonate have distinct characteristics that influence the sound produced by the switches. POM, known for its softness, creates a more dampened sound due to its ability to absorb vibrations, resulting in a more muted sound profile in the Akashi. In contrast, polycarbonate's stiffness results in a clearer and more resonant sound in the Dream, enhancing the sharpness and crispness of the typing experience. Despite both switches utilizing nylon for their bottom housing, the differences in their top housings greatly impact the overall sound and feel of the switches.
The impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the typing experience of the Bsun Akashi and the Dareu Dream showcases how material choices can influence sound profiles. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing of a switch reveal that the bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This division in material properties highlights the importance of selecting the right combination of housing materials to achieve the desired typing experience, whether it be a softer and muted sound like the Akashi or a sharper and crisper sound like the Dream.
Weight
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Dareu Dream linear switch, which has an actuation force of 40 grams. This means that the Akashi requires less force to register a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Akashi has a slightly higher force of 43 grams compared to the Dream, for which the bottom out force is unknown. This suggests that the Akashi provides a firmer typing experience when fully pressing down on the keys. Overall, if you prefer a lighter typing experience, the Bsun Akashi would be the better option, while if you prefer a slightly heavier feel, the Dareu Dream may be more suitable. Both switches offer different levels of resistance, catering to users with varying preferences for typing feedback.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Akashi linear switch is 3.7 mm, while the Dareu Dream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Akashi is the shorter option compared to the Dream. A difference of 0.3 mm may not seem significant, but it can make a noticeable impact on the overall typing or gaming experience. The shorter travel distance of the Akashi may appeal to those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers who need to act fast in competitive gameplay. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Dream may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more substantial and traditional key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and 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 Dareu Dream has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dream for $3.76.
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 Dareu Dream switches are described as having a clacky sound profile, producing sharp and snappy sounds when pressed. This quality offers a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience with each keystroke. While each switch may have slight variations in sound due to factors like keyboard and keycap choices, both switches provide a similar overall sound experience.
Moving on to the feel, the Bsun Akashi is known for its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy feel. These descriptors indicate a smooth, buttery typing experience with minimal resistance and friction, offering effortless key presses and enhanced responsiveness. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream is described as easy-to-press and mild, providing gentle resistance during key presses and a more gentle typing experience overall. While the Akashi offers a more diverse range of tactile sensations, both switches aim to provide a comfortable and low-impact typing feel for users.
In conclusion, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Akashi excels in providing a resonant and tactile typing experience with its creamy and snappy feel, while the Dream offers a lighter and more affordable option with an easy-to-press and mild feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and budget considerations, but users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, consider the following factors. If you value a unique sound experience with a bright and crisp bottom-out, the Akashi switch with its UPE stem and hybrid housing design may be the best choice for you. The creamy, frictionless, and polished feel of the Akashi switch offers a silky smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance and enhances overall comfort during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prioritize affordability without compromising quality and prefer an easy-to-press switch with a mild and approachable typing feel, the Dareu Dream switch could be the ideal option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and budget. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and needs to maximize your overall typing experience.
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