Bsun Akashi vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Bsun Akashi stands out for its unique design featuring a UPE stem, POM top, and nylon bottom, creating a distinctive sound profile with a bright, crisp bottom-out and deep acoustic richness. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black embodies Gateron's commitment to quality at an affordable price, offering a heavier typing experience with its 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force. While the Akashi is described as 'frictionless' and 'polished', the G Pro 3.0 Black is labeled as 'subdued' and 'subtle'. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Akashi's housing materials offer a unique combination of POM top housing and nylon bottom housing, resulting in a switch that delivers a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing. The POM top housing contributes to a pleasing and muted sound, while the nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing and POM bottom housing. The top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black produces a pointed and high-pitched sound that is described as clacky, while the POM bottom housing enhances the deeper and more muted sound profile of the switch.
In terms of sound characteristics, the Akashi's POM top housing and nylon bottom housing combination result in a switch that offers a unique and pleasing sound profile with a deeper and fuller tone. This contrasts with the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black, which has a high-pitched and clacky sound produced by its proprietary INK blend top housing. However, both switches utilize POM in their housing materials, providing a common factor that contributes to the pleasing sound profiles of each switch. While the Akashi's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, the G Pro 3.0 Black's POM bottom housing contributes to a similar muted sound profile.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a significant role in the sound and feel of typing. The Bsun Akashi and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black showcase how different combinations of housing materials can result in switches with distinct sound profiles. While the Akashi's POM top housing and nylon bottom housing offer a deeper and fuller sound, the G Pro 3.0 Black's INK blend top housing and POM bottom housing provide a high-pitched and clacky sound experience. Both switches incorporate POM in their housing materials, highlighting its importance in achieving unique and pleasing sound profiles. Ultimately, the balance between the top and bottom housing materials determines the overall sound and feel of a mechanical switch during typing.
Weight
In comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, it is evident that they have differing actuation and bottom out forces. The Akashi has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Akashi makes it easier to type for extended periods and is ideal for those looking for a more fluid typing experience. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a more substantial typing feel, which some users may prefer for added tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, we can see that the Akashi has a travel distance of 3.7 mm while the G Pro 3.0 Black has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The difference may seem small, but it can have a significant impact on the typing experience. The Akashi with its 3.7 mm travel distance offers a quicker keystroke response, making it a preferred choice for gamers seeking faster reaction times. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black's 4 mm travel distance provides a more substantial key press feel, which some users may find more satisfying for regular typing tasks. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with one offering a shorter travel distance for quick responses and the other providing a longer travel distance for a more deliberate keystroke.
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 G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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 the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches are described as having a "clacky" sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. The Akashi switch offers a unique acoustic experience with a bright and crisp bottom-out sound, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Black switch provides a medium-high pitch tone. When it comes to the feel of the switches, both are known for their smooth and buttery typing experiences. The Akashi switch is described as "creamy," "frictionless," "polished," "silky," and "snappy," offering a range of sensations from effortless gliding to super responsiveness. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch is also described as "creamy" and "silky," providing a smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch is noted to have a "subtle" feel, offering gentle resistance suitable for shared spaces. Overall, while both switches offer a similar clacky sound profile, they differ slightly in terms of feel, with the Akashi switch providing a wider variety of tactile experiences compared to the relatively smoother and subtler typing feel of the G Pro 3.0 Black switch. Ultimately, depending on personal preference, both switches can deliver a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Bsun Akashi linear switch or the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, you should first determine your preference in terms of bottom-out force. If you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of 43 grams, the Akashi switch may be more suitable for you. The Akashi offers a unique tactile feedback with its UPE stem and hybrid housing, providing a resonant and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy feel with a bottom-out force of 70 grams, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch may be a better fit. The G Pro 3.0 Black provides a premium quality typing experience at a budget-friendly price point, with a balanced medium-heavy feel and a medium-high pitch sound. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for bottom-out force and typing experience.
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