Bsun Akashi vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Akashi and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switches stand out as top contenders. The BSUN Akashi is widely recognized for its unique tactile feedback, thanks to the UPE stem, POM top, and nylon bottom housing combination that delivers a crisp bottom-out sound and deepens the overall acoustic richness. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro is celebrated for its versatility and ease of press, providing a seamless typing experience suitable for various user preferences. While the Akashi is praised for its clacky and snappy feel, the Gold Red Pro offers a polished and subtle 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
43g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Akashi and the TTC Gold Red Pro both have unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Akashi's POM top housing creates a deeper and muted sound profile, while the Gold Red Pro's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the clear polycarbonate housing of the Gold Red Pro allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visual element to the typing experience. Both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the material.
While the top housing materials of the Akashi and Gold Red Pro create different sound profiles, the nylon bottom housings of both switches bring a similar deep and full sound experience. The nylon material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound profile that is consistent between the two switches. The split between top and bottom housing qualities means that the bottom-out sound and feel are more influenced by the bottom housing, while the sound when releasing a key is more impacted by the top housing material. Overall, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their combination of housing materials.
The choice between the Bsun Akashi and the TTC Gold Red Pro ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. Those looking for a deeper and muted sound may prefer the POM top housing of the Akashi, while individuals in search of a sharper and crisper sound may lean towards the polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Red Pro. Both switches offer a consistent deep and full sound profile, thanks to their nylon bottom housings. Whether typing for work or gaming, the housing materials of these switches play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience and sound quality.
Weight
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, which has an actuation force of 43 grams. This means that the Akashi requires less force to register a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Akashi also has a lighter force of 43 grams, while the Gold Red Pro's bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Akashi would be the better choice due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. However, for users who prefer a more substantial typing feel and don't mind a heavier keystroke, the Gold Red Pro could be a better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the BSUN Akashi linear switch is 3.7 mm, while the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the Akashi switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, which can result in faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Gold Red Pro switch with its slightly longer travel distance. While the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, it ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. Overall, both switches offer a similar typing experience due to their comparable 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 Red 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 Red 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 described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch is characterized as thocky, offering a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. The Gold Red Pro also has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, making it versatile for various environments. In terms of feel, both switches share qualities such as being polished and silky, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. The Akashi is further noted for its creamy, frictionless, and snappy feel, while the Gold Red Pro offers a mild and subtle typing experience that is gentle and approachable. Overall, while the Akashi switch provides a unique and resonant sound and feel, the Gold Red Pro switch excels in adaptability and versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of users and settings. Both switches offer a high level of satisfaction and performance, ensuring that users will achieve reliable and enjoyable typing experiences with either choice.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a unique and resonant typing experience with a light bottom out force, the Bsun Akashi linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. Its clacky sound profile and creamy, frictionless feel make each keystroke a smooth and satisfying experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize versatility and adaptability in your keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch is the way to go. With its neutral sound signature and polished, silky feel, this switch is suitable for a wide range of environments and typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you value the distinctive sound and feel of the Akashi or the universal appeal and smoothness of the Gold Red Pro. Choose wisely based on your personal preferences and typing needs.
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