Bsun Akashi vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Akashi and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Akashi stands out with its UPE stem for smoothness and distinctive housing combo, providing a novel, resonant experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches from Gateron offer unmatched value for gamers, with a shorter travel distance and enhanced RGB lighting. While the Akashi is known for its clacky and silky feel, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are described as buttery and thocky. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver play a significant role in the overall sound profile of the switches. The Akashi's POM top housing offers a pleasing and unique sound that is deeper and relatively more muted compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver's polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials have their own distinct characteristics, the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired sound experience.
When it comes to the bottom housing material, both the Akashi and the G Pro 3.0 Silver utilize nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the plastic, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. This means that regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect a similar tactile experience when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel. The shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a consistent typing experience across both switches.
While the top and bottom housings of the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver may differ in material, each brings unique qualities to the overall typing experience. The impact of the bottom housing is felt when pressing down on the switch, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing plays a crucial role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Whether you prefer the deeper, fuller sound of nylon or the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate, both switches offer a customizable typing experience based on your sound preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Akashi is lighter in both aspects. The Akashi has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Akashi requires a lighter touch to register a keystroke and to bottom out compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver. The difference in weight may appeal to users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended use, such as for work or gaming sessions. However, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Silver, as it offers a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force for a firmer typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Akashi. The shorter travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Silver may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Akashi may provide a more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a bit more depth. Both switches offer relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, making them suitable for users who value speed and precision in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
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 Akashi linear switch is described as clacky, offering a sharp and snappy sound with a bright and percussive quality. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is described as bassy, low-pitched, and thocky, providing a deeper and richer sound profile with a lower frequency range reminiscent of bass tones. The Akashi switch delivers a resonant experience with a bright bottom-out sound, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, adding an exhilarating auditory element to gaming sessions. The choice between the two would depend on your preference for sound characteristics.
In terms of feel, the Akashi switch is known for its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press qualities, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal friction and effortless key travel. Conversely, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is also described as buttery and creamy, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Both switches prioritize a smooth and comfortable typing experience, enhancing overall typing efficiency and reducing finger fatigue. If you prefer a switch with a silky and polished feel, the Akashi may be the better choice, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch offers a buttery and creamy typing experience suitable for extended gaming sessions.
In conclusion, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Akashi switch provides a unique clacky sound profile with creamy and silky typing feel, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch delivers a bassy and thocky sound with a buttery typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer exceptional performance in their respective areas, providing a tailored experience for each user. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your individual preferences and priorities in typing or gaming experiences.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, you would want to choose the Akashi if you prefer a unique tactile feedback experience with a bright and crisp bottom-out sound. The Akashi offers a resonant typing experience with a light bottom out force of 43 grams. On the other hand, if you are looking for a gaming-focused switch with a shorter travel distance, lightning-fast responsiveness, and vibrant RGB lighting, the G Pro 3.0 Silver would be the better choice. With a bottom out force of 50 grams, the G Pro 3.0 Silver delivers an exceptional gaming experience with a medium-high pitch sound profile. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize typing experience or gaming performance.
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