Bsun Akashi vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Bsun Akashi and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switches, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Akashi is praised for its smooth UPE stem and distinctive POM top and nylon bottom housing, providing a bright and crisp bottom-out sound. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Silky', these switches offer a novel, resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Jacaranda stands out with its gentle 43.5g bottom-out force and extended 22mm spring, giving each keystroke a bouncy sensation. With a 'Clacky' and 'High-pitched' sound profile, it ensures audible feedback with every press. 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
39g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
POM
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
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Akashi and the PH Studio Jacaranda differ significantly in their choice of housing materials. The Akashi utilizes a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Jacaranda opts for a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the Akashi's nylon bottom housing contributes to a fuller sound profile, whereas the Jacaranda also boasts a nylon bottom housing with similar acoustic qualities.
Despite their differences, both the Akashi and the Jacaranda share certain characteristics in their housing materials. For instance, both switches feature nylon bottom housings, which are known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to their softness and sound absorption properties. However, the top housings of the two switches vary significantly, with POM offering a more muted sound in the Akashi compared to the crisper sound provided by polycarbonate in the Jacaranda.
In terms of aesthetics, the choice of housing material can also play a role in the overall design of the switch. The translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the Jacaranda. In contrast, the opaque POM top housing of the Akashi may appeal to those looking for a more understated look. Ultimately, the housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the PH Studio Jacaranda contribute to their unique sound profiles and overall user experience.
Weight
The Bsun Akashi linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch both offer relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, with the Akashi being slightly lighter in both categories. The Akashi has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Jacaranda has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Akashi may be the preferred choice due to its slightly lower force requirements. However, both switches fall within a similar range of actuation and bottom out forces, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing feel and responsiveness. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference for a lighter or slightly heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, slightly longer than the 3.5 mm travel distance of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, the Akashi offers a slightly deeper key press compared to the Jacaranda. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the Akashi, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Jacaranda. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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, both the Bsun Akashi and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switches are described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The Akashi provides a bright, crisp bottom-out sound, thanks to its unique stem and housing combination, while the Jacaranda offers a crisp and audible feedback with its extended spring, creating a bouncy sensation with each keystroke. Overall, both switches offer a satisfying auditory experience, with the Akashi leaning towards a brighter tone and the Jacaranda delivering a more pronounced clacky sound.
Moving on to feel, the Akashi switch is described as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance and a buttery sensation. On the other hand, the Jacaranda is specifically highlighted as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the Akashi boasts a variety of qualities contributing to its overall feel, the Jacaranda focuses on delivering a silky smooth experience, enhancing the typing comfort and ease for users.
Taking all the available information into account, both the Bsun Akashi and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Akashi excels in providing a resonant sound profile and a variety of feel descriptors that enhance the typing experience, the Jacaranda stands out with its bouncy sensation and silky smooth feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches are capable of delivering a satisfying typing experience, with the Akashi offering a brighter sound and a variety of feel options, while the Jacaranda prioritizes a smooth and effortless typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on individual preferences and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akashi and Jacaranda linear switches, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a bright and resonant typing experience with a unique acoustic richness, opt for the Bsun Akashi switch. The UPE stem, POM top, and nylon bottom housing combination deliver a crisp bottom-out sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, if you value a gentle bottom-out force and a bouncy typing sensation, the PH Studio Jacaranda switch is the way to go. With its extended 22mm spring and clacky sound signature, it offers a fatigue-free and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, it comes down to your preference for sound and feel when selecting between these two linear switches.
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