Bsun Akashi vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 White
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Akashi and Gateron G Pro 3.0 White both offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The Akashi stands out for its innovative design that combines a UPE stem for smoothness and a POM top with a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a distinctive sound profile that is both bright and rich. This linear switch is described as 'clacky', 'creamy', and 'snappy', providing a tactile feedback that is easy to press and polished. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White is known for its budget-friendly option with an incredibly light actuation force of 38g, making it ideal for delicate typists. This switch is categorized as 'feathery', 'mild', and 'subtle', offering a subtle tactile feedback that is easy to press and provides a satisfying typing experience. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Akashi features a POM top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White has a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The POM top housing of the Akashi creates a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to the sharper, higher-pitched sound profile produced by the polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 White. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound in both cases.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 White is clear and allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Akashi does not offer the same benefit of showcasing RGB lighting due to its material properties. Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, emphasizing a classic switch housing material that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to whether RGB lighting is a priority and whether a more muted or sharper sound profile is preferred.
When considering the overall sound and feel of a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing play a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. With the nylon bottom housing in both the Akashi and the G Pro 3.0 White, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile that contributes to a more satisfying typing experience. The impact of the top housing, whether POM or polycarbonate, becomes more apparent when releasing a key, affecting the overall sound profile of the switch. While the materials used for the top and bottom housing may vary between the two switches, the end result is a tactile and auditory experience tailored to the preferences of the user.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, we can see that the Akashi has a slightly lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the G Pro's 38 grams. Similarly, the Akashi also has a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams, whereas the G Pro has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 45 grams. Both switches offer a relatively light typing experience, which is ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. However, those who prefer a more tactile typing experience may opt for the G Pro with its slightly heavier forces for a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference for typing feel and weight sensitivity.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, we can see that the Akashi has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 White has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Akashi has a shorter travel distance compared to the G Pro 3.0 White. The shorter travel distance of the Akashi may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 White may provide a more satisfying keystroke depth for some users. 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 White 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 White 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, both the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switches fall under the descriptor of "clacky," providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This means that users can expect a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory feedback with each keystroke. The sound profile of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so individual experiences may vary.
In terms of feel, both switches offer a smooth and effortless typing experience. The Bsun Akashi is described as having a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy feel, which results in a buttery typing experience with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch is noted for its creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, and subtle feel, providing users with a gentle and comfortable typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during extended use. These qualities make both switches suitable for various typing preferences and environments.
In conclusion, while the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch have some differences in their sound and feel profiles, they both offer a satisfying typing experience for users. The Akashi provides a unique, resonant sound contrast with a creamy and smooth feel, while the G Pro 3.0 White offers a budget-friendly option with a light actuation force and a silky typing sensation. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and budget considerations.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Bsun Akashi linear switch or the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a unique sound experience with bright, crisp bottom-outs and resonant keystrokes, the Akashi switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option with incredibly light actuation force and a satisfying auditory feedback, the G Pro 3.0 White switch could be the ideal fit. Both switches offer different sound profiles and typing feels, so it's important to consider what matters most to you when deciding between the two. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and needs.
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