Bsun Akashi vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Akashi and the Durock Koala offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Akashi is a linear switch that stands out for its smooth UPE stem and unique housing combination of POM top and nylon bottom, resulting in a bright, crisp bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the Koala is a tactile switch known for its stepped tactility that provides a pronounced bump without being overwhelming, along with a moderate level of resonance. While the Akashi is described as 'clacky,' 'creamy,' and 'snappy,' the Koala is characterized as 'polished,' 'stiff,' and 'neutral.' Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on whether you prefer a smoother, resonant typing experience with the Akashi or a more tactile and punchy feel with the Koala. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the Bsun Akashi and the Durock Koala feature different housing materials for the top and bottom of the switch. The Akashi's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Koala's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer and sound absorbing qualities.
Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both the Bsun Akashi and the Durock Koala share similar characteristics with their nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches that use nylon elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, making it a classic switch housing material. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This consistency in bottom housing material between the two switches means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when it comes to the bottom-out sound and impact.
While the top housings of the Bsun Akashi and the Durock Koala differ in material and sound profiles, the qualities they bring to the switches are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing material, whether it is POM or nylon, will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed. Conversely, the top housing material, whether it is polycarbonate or POM, will influence the sound when the key is released. This distinction in housing materials adds a unique touch to each switch and allows for a customizable typing experience based on individual preferences.
Weight
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a much lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Durock Koala tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. When it comes to bottom out force, the Akashi requires 43 grams to fully press down, while the Koala needs 67 grams, making it heavier. This means that the Akashi will be easier to type on for longer periods of time due to its lighter touch, which is ideal for work or gaming. On the other hand, the Koala provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Despite the difference in force, both switches offer unique advantages depending on the user's preference.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Durock Koala tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Koala has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Akashi. The Akashi's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Koala's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Regardless of the difference in travel distance, both switches are designed to provide a high-quality typing 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 Durock Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
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 Bsun Akashi linear switch is known for its clacky nature, producing a sharp and snappy sound with each press. This creates a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience that enhances the overall typing sensation. On the other hand, the Durock Koala tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. This results in a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to the Akashi, making it suitable for various environments without being overly loud. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Akashi switch is described as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press. These descriptors indicate a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance, resulting in effortless keystrokes and reduced finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Durock Koala switch is characterized as polished, accented, stepped, and stiff. This means that the Koala switch provides a refined and sleek typing feel with a medium level of tactility that is not overpowering. The stepped design offers a distinct tactile feedback with varying levels of resistance, catering to those who prefer a more pronounced bump with a stiffer key press.
In conclusion, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Akashi provides a clacky sound with a smooth and effortless typing experience, while the Koala offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile with a medium level of tactility. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them ultimately boils down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. However, if you enjoy a more resonant and clacky sound along with a creamy and easy-to-press typing feel, the Akashi might be the better choice for you. Conversely, if you prefer a low-pitched and neutral sound with a polished and stiff tactile feel, the Koala could be the ideal option. Regardless of your choice, both switches are designed to enhance your overall typing experience while providing a satisfying and enjoyable sensation with each keystroke.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, consider the following: If you prefer a light bottom out force and a smooth, resonant typing experience with a clacky sound, the Akashi may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a pronounced tactile bump without being overwhelming, and a low-pitched, neutral sound profile, the Koala may be more suitable. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and actuation force. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different user preferences, so make sure to consider what qualities are most important to you when selecting your ideal mechanical keyboard switch.
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