Bsun Akashi vs. TTC Gold Brown
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the TTC Gold Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, it is clear that both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Akashi switch stands out for its smooth UPE stem and distinctive POM top and nylon bottom housing, resulting in a bright and crisp bottom-out sound with a resonant experience overall. On the other hand, the Gold Brown switch is characterized by its balanced nature, offering a slight bump and moderate weightiness, with a softer sound profile. While the Akashi is described as 'clacky' and 'snappy', the Gold Brown is considered 'buttery' and 'accented'. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for feel, sound, and 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
55g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Akashi and TTC Gold Brown both offer unique sound profiles in their housing materials. The Akashi's POM top housing creates a pleasing, deep sound with a muted quality, while the Gold Brown's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, both switches feature nylon bottom housings, which elicit a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon and its ability to absorb more sound. Despite the differences in top housing material, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile.
However, the choice between POM and polycarbonate top housings can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switch. While POM creates a more muted and deeper sound, polycarbonate provides a crisper and higher-pitched sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound profile, particularly when letting go of a key. Meanwhile, both switches' nylon bottom housings contribute to a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in each switch creates a unique sound profile that caters to different preferences.
In summary, the Bsun Akashi and TTC Gold Brown showcase the impact of housing materials on sound profiles in mechanical switches. The choice between POM and polycarbonate top housings can significantly alter the typing experience, with POM offering a deeper and more muted sound compared to the crisper and higher-pitched sound of polycarbonate. Despite the differences, both switches utilize nylon bottom housings to enhance the overall sound profile with a fuller and deeper tone. Whether a switch features one type of housing material or a combination, each material brings its own unique qualities that can cater to a variety of preferences in typing sound and feel.
Weight
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch. The Akashi requires 37 grams of force to actuate and 43 grams to bottom out, while the Gold Brown needs 55 grams to actuate and 63 grams to bottom out. The Akashi would be preferred by those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Gold Brown would suit those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel. The actuation force of the Akashi is significantly lighter than that of the Gold Brown, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, while the Gold Brown provides a medium resistance for those who prefer a more tactile typing experience. In terms of bottom out force, the Akashi is still lighter than the Gold Brown, offering a more gentle landing when pressing down all the way. Overall, the Akashi is the lighter option, while the Gold Brown is the heavier of the two, providing users with different options based on their preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Gold Brown has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Akashi. The difference may seem minimal, but it can impact the feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers seeking faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Akashi, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Gold Brown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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 Bsun Akashi linear switch is known for its clacky and sharp sound, creating a crisp and bright typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, with a moderate level of sound that is suitable for various environments. Both switches provide unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring a pleasing auditory experience during typing sessions.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Akashi switch is described as offering a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press typing experience. This means that users can expect a smooth and refined keystroke with minimal resistance, providing a delightful tactile sensation. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown switch is known for its mild, buttery, accented, and polished feel, emphasizing a gentle and uniform typing experience with a moderate level of tactility. Both switches offer distinct tactile sensations that cater to varying typing preferences, ensuring comfortable and enjoyable typing sessions for users.
Overall, while the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel, both switches provide unique and satisfying typing experiences. Depending on individual preferences for sound, tactility, and typing feel, users can choose between the clacky and resonant experience of the Akashi switch or the balanced and satisfying bump of the Gold Brown switch. Ultimately, both switches promise to deliver a high-quality typing experience, meeting the diverse needs of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Bsun Akashi linear switch or the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, your decision should be based on your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a smooth and bright bottom-out sound with a light actuation force, the Akashi may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a balanced and slightly tactile typing experience with a moderate weightiness, the Gold Brown switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you prioritize the unique sound profile and feel of the Akashi or the balanced and satisfying bump of the Gold Brown. Consider your typing style and preferences to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Mentioned in this article
