Bsun Akashi vs. Bsun Hutt
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Bsun Hutt switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Akashi and the Bsun Hutt stand out as unique options with their own set of characteristics. The Akashi is a linear switch that offers a smooth and resonant typing experience, thanks to its UPE stem and distinctive housing combo of POM top and nylon bottom. On the other hand, the Hutt is a tactile switch with a medium-heavy spring and a prominent tactile bump, providing a balanced sound profile and an enjoyable typing experience. The Akashi is often described as 'clacky', 'creamy', and 'easy-to-press', while the Hutt is known for being 'snappy', 'sharp', and 'resonant'. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference 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
40g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
49g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
20.5mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Bsun Hutt have some key differences that affect the sound and feel of the switches. The Akashi's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Hutt's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This difference in material affects the overall sound output of the switches, with the POM housing providing a more subdued tone compared to the crisper sound of the polycarbonate housing. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making it a popular choice for those looking to customize their setup.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Akashi and Hutt switches use nylon, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer and sound-absorbing properties. This similarity in housing material between the two switches means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. However, it's important to note that the qualities of the bottom housing have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing material plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the choice between the Bsun Akashi and the Bsun Hutt ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetic considerations. The POM top housing of the Akashi provides a pleasing and unique sound that is deeper and more muted, suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Hutt offers a sharper and crisper sound, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more high-pitched tone. Both switches use nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, ensuring a consistent typing experience regardless of the switch chosen.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Bsun Hutt tactile switch, we can see that the Akashi has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Hutt's 40 grams. Similarly, the Akashi has a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Hutt requires 49 grams. The Akashi provides a smoother and more effortless typing experience due to its lighter force requirements, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Hutt offers a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force, giving users a more tactile and substantial typing experience. Both switches cater to different typing preferences, with the Akashi being lighter and the Hutt being slightly heavier. Users can choose based on their 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 Hutt tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Bsun Akashi has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Bsun Hutt. While both switches have relatively short travel distances, the Akashi provides a slightly deeper press compared to the Hutt. Gamers who prioritize speed and quick response times may prefer the Akashi for its slightly longer travel distance, which can offer a bit more resistance and feedback. On the other hand, those who prefer a more immediate and abrupt press may lean towards the Hutt with its slightly shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the specific feel that each individual user is looking for in their typing or gaming experience.
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 Hutt has an MSRP of $6.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hutt for $5.39.
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 Akashi linear switch offers a clacky and bright tone, providing a sharp and percussive sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Hutt tactile switch presents a resonant and higher-pitched sound profile, offering a clean and sharp auditory experience. While both switches offer unique sound qualities, the Akashi delivers a crisper bottom-out sound, while the Hutt offers a more immersive typing sound. The sound produced by each switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycap material.
In terms of feel, the Akashi linear switch is described as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press. This means that the Akashi switch provides a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance, allowing for effortless key presses and reduced finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Hutt tactile switch is characterized as snappy, invigorating, sharp, and accented, offering pronounced feedback and a firm actuation force for a lively typing sensation. Both switches provide a responsive and tactile typing experience, with the Akashi focusing more on smoothness and ease of pressing, while the Hutt emphasizes tactile feedback and snappiness.
Overall, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and Bsun Hutt tactile switch each offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Akashi provides a unique clacky sound and smooth typing experience, while the Hutt offers a resonant sound profile and pronounced tactile feedback. Depending on whether you prefer a brighter and crisper sound or a higher-pitched and immersive sound, as well as a smoother or more tactile typing feel, you can choose either switch for a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the BSUN Akashi linear switch and the BSUN Hutt tactile switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a bright, crisp bottom-out sound with a resonant typing experience, the Akashi may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a balanced sound profile with a prominent tactile bump and a sharp feedback intensity, the Hutt switch might suit your typing style better. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences in sound and feel when typing. Choose the switch that resonates with you the most for an optimal typing experience.