Bsun Akashi vs. TTC Gold Red
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the TTC Gold Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch to the TTC Gold Red linear switch, it is evident that both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Akashi stands out for its tactile feedback, featuring a UPE stem for smoothness and a distinctive POM top and nylon bottom housing combination, providing a bright and crisp bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the Gold Red switch offers a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a snappy sound profile that adds a touch of personality. While the Akashi is described as 'clacky', 'creamy', and 'snappy', the Gold Red is categorized as 'thocky', 'low-pitched', and 'subtle'. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences and typing style. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
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 housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the TTC Gold Red switches are quite different in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The Akashi utilizes a POM top housing, which results in a deeper and more muted sound profile, whereas the Gold Red features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, giving it a more visually appealing look compared to the Akashi's POM housing. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound.
In terms of sound, the Bsun Akashi and TTC Gold Red switches offer contrasting experiences due to their different top housing materials. The POM top housing of the Akashi creates a more subdued sound profile, whereas the polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Red produces a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the use of nylon for both switches' bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While the bottom housing plays a larger role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing has a significant impact on the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the choice between the Bsun Akashi and the TTC Gold Red switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The Akashi's POM top housing offers a unique and pleasing sound experience, while the Gold Red's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and higher-pitched sound that may be preferred by some users. Both switches, however, share a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, making them both viable options for those seeking a switch with a classic sound. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will hinge on individual preferences for sound and appearance.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, it is evident that the Akashi is the lighter of the two. The Akashi has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Gold Red has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Akashi requires less force to trigger a keystroke and to bottom out compared to the Gold Red. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Akashi would be the better option. However, for individuals who enjoy a slightly heavier feel and a more substantial typing experience, the Gold Red may be the preferred choice. Both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with a smooth and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, it is evident that the Akashi has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gold Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Akashi's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the Gold Red's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Gold Red being slightly longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and response time.
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 Red 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 Red 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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Akashi linear switch is characterized by a clacky sound, which is sharp, crisp, and percussive. This creates a bright and distinct bottom-out sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red linear switch is described as having a thocky sound profile, which is deep, rich, and satisfying, with a low-pitched and neutral tone. While the Akashi offers a more vibrant and resonant sound experience, the Gold Red provides a more subdued yet pleasing typing sound suitable for various environments.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Akashi linear switch is known for its creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience. The switch offers a silky sensation and effortless key presses, making typing feel smooth and refined. Additionally, the Akashi switch is described as snappy and easy-to-press, providing a responsive and low-impact typing feel. In contrast, the TTC Gold Red linear switch offers a mild and subtle typing experience that is gentle and approachable. With a silky and polished feel, the Gold Red switch provides smooth key travel and a comfortable typing experience without being too pronounced.
Overall, the Bsun Akashi linear switch stands out for its unique sound profile and smooth, responsive typing feel, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a more vibrant and tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red linear switch offers a softer and more understated sound and feel, suitable for those looking for a more subtle and approachable typing experience. Depending on personal preference, both switches provide quality options with different qualities that cater to a variety of typing preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prioritize a vibrant and resonant typing experience (Akashi) or a gentle and approachable typing feel (Gold Red).
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, consider the characteristics of each switch. If you prefer a unique sound profile with a bright, crisp bottom-out and a resonant experience with each keystroke, the Akashi may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a snappy sound profile that adds a touch of personality to your keyboard, the Gold Red could be the ideal option. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel while typing.
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