Bsun Akashi vs. TTC Gold Brown Pro
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Bsun Akashi, a linear switch, and the TTC Gold Brown Pro, a tactile switch. The Akashi is known for redefining tactile feedback with its UPE stem for smoothness and unique housing combo of POM top and nylon bottom, creating a distinctive sound profile with each keystroke. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Easy-to-press', the Akashi offers a novel, resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro by TTC is designed for those who prefer subtle, nuanced feedback, featuring a gentle tactile bump and subdued sound profile to minimize distraction. With categories such as 'Polished', 'Thocky', and 'Subtle', the Gold Brown Pro is ideal for users who value understated tactile experiences. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
NPI
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
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches offer distinct differences in sound profiles and typing experiences. The Akashi features a POM top housing, which results in a deeper and more muted sound, while the Gold Brown Pro's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for better RGB lighting visibility, providing a more visually appealing experience. In terms of bottom housing, both switches use nylon, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound-absorption properties.
While the Akashi and the Gold Brown Pro switches both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, they differ in their top housing materials, leading to variations in sound. The split qualities of the housing materials mean that the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when letting go of a key. The Akashi's POM top housing creates a unique, deeper sound profile, while the Gold Brown Pro's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, making each switch cater to different preferences in typing experience.
In conclusion, the choice between the Bsun Akashi and TTC Gold Brown Pro switches ultimately comes down to individual preference in sound and typing feel. The POM top housing of the Akashi provides a more muted and deeper sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Brown Pro offers a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches share the classic nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deep and fuller sound profile. Whether you prefer a more unique and muted sound or a sharper and crisper typing experience, the housing materials of these switches cater to a variety of preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch reveals some key differences. The Akashi has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it a suitable option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Gold Brown Pro has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, though the bottom out force is unknown. This difference in actuation force may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. However, without knowledge of the bottom out force for the Gold Brown Pro, it is difficult to make a direct comparison in terms of overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for a lighter or heavier touch.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The difference between the two is minimal, with the Gold Brown Pro having a slightly longer travel distance. For those who prefer a more responsive feel, the Akashi may be the better choice, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the Gold Brown Pro. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience due to their closely matched travel distances.
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 Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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 best characterized as clacky, providing a sharp and snappy sound with each press. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deep and rich tone that is more subdued and neutral. Ultimately, users will experience distinct auditory feedback with the Akashi, while the Gold Brown Pro brings a quieter and more subtle typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Bsun Akashi switch is lauded for its creamy and frictionless typing experience, delivering a smooth and buttery sensation with each keystroke. In contrast, the TTC Gold Brown Pro switch offers a polished and silky feel, giving users an exceptionally smooth typing experience that is mild and subtle. With these differences in tactile feedback, users can choose between a more responsive and snappy feel with the Akashi or a gentle and refined touch with the Gold Brown Pro.
In conclusion, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch present unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Akashi offers a clacky sound and a creamy, frictionless typing experience, the Gold Brown Pro provides a thocky, low-pitched sound and a polished, silky feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound profile and typing experience, users can select the switch that best suits their needs, knowing that both options deliver quality and reliable performance in different ways. Ultimately, whether you choose the Akashi or the Gold Brown Pro, you can expect a satisfying typing experience that meets your specific preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the BSUN Akashi linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a bright and crisp bottom-out with a resonant sound, the Akashi's smooth and creamy feel might be perfect for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtle tactile bump and a subdued sound profile for a more immersive and understated typing experience, the Gold Brown Pro's polished and silky feel could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a bright and clacky typing experience with the Akashi or a gentle and thocky typing experience with the Gold Brown Pro. Choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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