Bsun Akashi vs. KTT Grapefruit
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the KTT Grapefruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Akashi and the KTT Grapefruit are two intriguing options to compare. The Bsun Akashi offers a unique tactile feedback experience with its UPE stem, POM top, and nylon bottom housing combination, resulting in a crisp bottom-out sound and a deep acoustic richness. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit switches stand out for their soft and light feel, along with a distinctive "baritone" sound profile. The Akashi is characterized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Polished', 'Silky', 'Snappy', and 'Easy-to-press', while the Grapefruit is labeled as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own set of qualities that may appeal to different preferences. 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
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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 KTT Grapefruit switches play a significant role in shaping the sound profile of the switches. The Akashi features a POM top housing, which creates a unique and pleasing sound that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. On the other hand, the Grapefruit utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The POM housing of the Akashi dampens the sound, while the polycarbonate housing of the Grapefruit enhances clarity and resonance. Despite the differences in sound characteristics, both switches offer a distinct typing experience due to their contrasting top housing materials.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Akashi and Grapefruit switches use nylon, a classic material known for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer than other plastics, absorbing more sound and creating a duller, rounder sound. This commonality in bottom housing material between the two switches means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, contributing to a more satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts who prefer a deeper and fuller sound profile.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for switches such as the Bsun Akashi and KTT Grapefruit reflects the importance of sound in the mechanical keyboard community. While the top housings differ between the two switches, with the Akashi featuring POM and the Grapefruit utilizing polycarbonate, the use of nylon for the bottom housing creates a shared experience in terms of sound profile. Both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Akashi offering a more muted and deep sound, and the Grapefruit providing a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience and sound profile of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, it is evident that the Akashi has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Grapefruit's 45 grams. The bottom out force of the Akashi is also lighter at 43 grams, while the Grapefruit's bottom out force is slightly heavier at 53 grams. This means that the Akashi provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it suitable for those who prefer a gentler touch. On the other hand, the Grapefruit offers a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches provide different levels of tactile feedback, with the Akashi being on the lighter end and the Grapefruit falling in the medium-light category. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a lighter or slightly heavier typing experience, ensuring they get the desired feel when using their keyboard.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, it is clear that the Akashi has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm compared to the Grapefruit's 4 mm. The Akashi's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, while the Grapefruit's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and deliberate keystroke for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, offering a balance between speed and tactility. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
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 KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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 offers a clacky and bright sound profile, providing a sharp and percussive bottom-out when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch has a low-pitched sound profile, giving off a bass-heavy and mellow tone. While the Akashi switch emphasizes a crisp and vibrant sound, the Grapefruit switch focuses on a deeper and more relaxed auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Akashi switch boasts a variety of descriptors such as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press, all contributing to a smooth and refined typing experience with minimal resistance. In contrast, the Grapefruit switch is described as polished, indicating a sleek typing feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Akashi emphasizing responsiveness and effortless key presses while the Grapefruit focuses on a refined and easy glide across the keys.
Overall, the BSUN Akashi linear switch offers a unique tactile feedback with a bright and crisp sound, accompanied by a variety of smooth and refined feel descriptors. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch stands out with its tarty feel and baritone sound profile, providing a softer and lighter typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your typing experience. Whether you prefer a clacky and responsive feel or a polished and mellow typing sensation, these switches cater to different preferences, ensuring that you will achieve a satisfying typing experience with either choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a unique sound experience with each keystroke, the Bsun Akashi may be the right choice for you. The Akashi is known for its creamy, frictionless, and polished feel, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a softer, low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Grapefruit might be more suited to your preferences. The Grapefruit is described as having a polished feel, resulting in a sleek typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing force.
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