Bsun Akashi vs. Bsun Guyu
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Bsun Guyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Akashi and the BSUN Guyu both offer unique features and benefits for keyboard enthusiasts. The Akashi stands out for its UPE stem providing smoothness and a hybrid housing combo of POM top and nylon bottom, resulting in a distinctive sound profile that enhances each keystroke. On the other hand, the Guyu boasts all-POM housings for deep acoustics and a long pole stem for a bright bottom-out sound, along with a medium weight that complements the smooth keystrokes thanks to the high-grade UPE stem. Both switches offer a range of attributes such as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Snappy', making them appealing choices for 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
21mm spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Akashi and the Bsun Guyu both use POM material for their top housings, creating an incredibly pleasing and unique sound with a deeper and more muted profile. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Akashi uses nylon while the Guyu sticks with POM. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Guyu's POM bottom housing contributes to the overall sound profile with its unique characteristics.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Akashi's nylon brings a different dynamic to the switch compared to the Guyu's POM. The softer composition of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the Akashi. In contrast, the Guyu's POM bottom housing, while still contributing to a pleasing sound profile, may have different acoustic qualities due to the nature of POM material. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, with the material of the bottom housing playing a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch.
While the top housing material remains consistent between the Bsun Akashi and the Bsun Guyu, the use of different bottom housing materials allows for a varied typing experience between the two switches. The impact of the bottom housing material is most noticeable when bottoming out a key, with the nylon in the Akashi contributing to a deeper sound profile, while the POM in the Guyu still maintains a pleasing and unique sound. The top housing, on the other hand, plays a role in the sound when releasing a key, offering a diverse experience between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Bsun Guyu linear switch, it is evident that the Akashi has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Guyu's 45 grams. Additionally, the Akashi has a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Guyu's bottom out force is slightly heavier at 50 grams. These differences in force give users options based on their preferences. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Akashi make it suitable for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience or extended gaming sessions. Conversely, the Guyu with its slightly heavier forces provides users with a more pronounced keystroke and typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Bsun Guyu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm. The Akashi is slightly longer than the Guyu, but the difference is minimal. Gamers might lean towards the Akashi for its slightly longer travel distance, offering a bit more depth in each keystroke. On the other hand, those looking for a faster response time might prefer the Guyu with its slightly shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the differences in travel distance between the two switches are subtle, and users can expect a similar typing experience from both switches.
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 Bsun Guyu has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Guyu for $3.70.
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, both the Bsun Akashi and Bsun Guyu linear switches are described as "clacky," producing sharp and snappy sounds when pressed. The bright, crisp bottom-out sound is a common feature in both switches, creating a percussive and resonant feedback that adds a unique auditory experience to typing sessions. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Bsun Akashi and Bsun Guyu linear switches are described as offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. The creamy sensation is achieved through materials and lubrication in the switch, allowing for effortless keystrokes that glide with ease. The switches boast a frictionless and polished feel, reducing resistance and ensuring a sleek typing experience. Additionally, the switches are noted for being silky and snappy, enhancing the overall smoothness and responsiveness of the typing feel. This balance of elements results in a comfortable and low-impact typing experience, minimizing finger fatigue during extended use.
Overall, both the Bsun Akashi and Bsun Guyu linear switches offer similar subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While each switch may have its unique design features to accentuate certain aspects, such as their respective housings and stems, users can expect a comparable typing experience characterized by a clacky sound profile and creamy, smooth feel. Ultimately, choosing between the Akashi and Guyu switches may come down to personal preference in terms of specific design elements and aesthetics, as the core typing experience is likely to yield similar results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Bsun Akashi and Bsun Guyu linear switches, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams, a unique sound experience with a resonant feedback, and a creamy, polished, or silky typing feel, the Bsun Akashi linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 50 grams, a distinctive sound signature with depth and clarity, and a creamy, frictionless, or snappy typing feel, the Bsun Guyu linear switch would suit your preferences better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your specific preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience to ensure an optimal match with your mechanical keyboard setup.
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