Bsun Akashi vs. Gateron Ink Yellow
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron Ink Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to consider their unique features and characteristics. The Bsun Akashi is a linear switch that boasts a UPE stem for smoothness and a distinctive housing combination of POM top and nylon bottom, creating a bright and crisp bottom-out sound with deep acoustic richness. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow is also a linear switch known for its shorter travel distance, providing a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. While the Akashi is described as 'clacky', 'creamy', and 'snappy', the Ink Yellow is categorized as 'neutral', 'mild', and 'polished'. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your 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
60g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches offer distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall typing experience. The Akashi's POM top housing provides a deeper and relatively muted sound profile, while the proprietary INK blend top housing of the Ink Yellow offers a pointed and higher-pitched sound that is described as clacky. In terms of the bottom housing, the Akashi's nylon material creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softness and sound-absorbing properties, while the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Yellow maintains a similar high-pitched sound profile.
Although the top and bottom housing materials of the Akashi and the Ink Yellow switches differ, they both impact the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches. The split in qualities between the top and bottom housing means that pressing down on the switch will highlight the characteristics of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key, showcasing the unique qualities of the materials used in each switch.
While the Bsun Akashi and Gateron Ink Yellow switches may have different housing materials, they ultimately provide a similar typing experience with their own unique sound profiles. The POM top housing of the Akashi creates a pleasing and deeper sound, while the INK blend top housing of the Ink Yellow offers a higher-pitched clacky sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Akashi and the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Yellow both contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. Ultimately, whether choosing the Akashi or the Ink Yellow, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound characteristics based on the housing materials used.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, it is clear that there are significant differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Akashi has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a corresponding bottom out force of 43 grams, making it a more gentle option. In contrast, the Ink Yellow switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. This means that the Akashi switch is lighter overall, ideal for those who prefer a more effortless typing feel, while the Ink Yellow switch offers a firmer push, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial keystroke sensation. Whether you prefer a lighter or heavier switch ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Ink Yellow has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Akashi. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance can provide a more substantial, satisfying key press. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum, with the Akashi being slightly longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference 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 Gateron Ink Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
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 known for its clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed, attributed to its unique stem and housing design. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users, but also leans towards a clacky sound similar to the Akashi. When it comes to feel, the Akashi provides a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, making each keystroke smooth and refined. Meanwhile, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch offers a milder typing experience with a polished finish, ensuring a sleek and effortless key travel.
Considering all the available information, while the sound profiles of the Akashi and the Ink Yellow may differ slightly, both switches provide a smooth and satisfying typing experience. The Akashi's unique design and materials contribute to its distinct sound and feel, while the Ink Yellow offers a more universally appealing typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, but rest assured that both options deliver quality performance for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, consider these factors. If you prioritize a light bottom out force and a unique tactile feedback experience with a resonant sound profile, the Akashi may be the better option for you. The Akashi offers a creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience with a snappy sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch may be more suitable for you. The Ink Yellow provides a mild, polished typing experience with a clacky sound. Ultimately, your choice should depend on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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