Bsun Akashi vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the BSUN Akashi and the KTT Laurel mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches that offer unique features for different preferences. The Akashi stands out for its UPE stem for smoothness, POM top, and nylon bottom housing combo, providing a bright, crisp bottom-out sound with deep acoustic richness. It is described as 'clacky', 'creamy', 'frictionless', 'polished', 'silky', 'snappy', and 'easy-to-press'. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel offers a medium-light feel with a full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, striking a balance between responsiveness and comfort, and producing a subtly low-pitched sound profile. It is categorized as 'low-pitched' and 'snappy'. Each switch caters to different preferences, with the Akashi providing a resonant experience and the Laurel offering a comfortable typing experience. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Akashi and KTT Laurel both feature POM top housings, which create a unique and pleasing sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted. This similarity suggests that users can expect a similar auditory experience when typing on either keyboard. However, the Akashi utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for generating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer texture that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Laurel maintains a POM bottom housing, which may slightly alter the overall sound and feel of the switch compared to the Akashi's nylon bottom housing.
While the top housing of the Akashi and Laurel keyboards may provide a similar sound experience, the difference in bottom housing materials can result in a noticeable variation in typing feel. The nylon bottom housing of the Akashi contributes to a duller and rounder sound upon bottoming out the switch, impacting the overall typing experience. Conversely, the POM bottom housing of the Laurel may offer a different tactile sensation and sound profile. Users who prefer a softer and more absorbing switch may lean towards the Akashi, while those seeking a different typing experience may opt for the Laurel with its POM bottom housing.
In conclusion, the choice between the Bsun Akashi and KTT Laurel keyboards boils down to personal preference in typing feel and sound profile. While both keyboards share the same POM top housing for a consistent sound quality, the variation in bottom housing materials sets them apart. The Akashi's nylon bottom housing provides a unique typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound, while the Laurel's POM bottom housing may offer a slightly different tactile sensation. Ultimately, users should consider their preferences in typing sound, feel, and overall experience when deciding between these two keyboards.
Weight
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the KTT Laurel linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Akashi again has a lighter force of 43 grams while the Laurel has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Laurel switch due to its slightly heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Akashi linear switch is 3.7 mm, while the KTT Laurel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Akashi being slightly longer than the Laurel. However, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal and may not be noticeable to the average user. If you are looking for a faster response time and prefer a shorter travel distance, the Laurel linear switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly deeper keypress feel, the Akashi linear switch with its slightly longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer similar performance in terms of travel distance and are suitable for different preferences in typing or gaming experiences.
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 KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 offers a clacky sound profile with a bright, crisp bottom-out, while the KTT Laurel linear switch produces a subtly low-pitched sound, which is more bass-heavy and mellow. Both switches have their unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences. Depending on the user's preference for sound, they can choose between the sharp and percussive clack of the Akashi or the more subdued, low-pitched sound of the Laurel.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Bsun Akashi switch is described as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel switch is described as snappy, providing a super responsive typing experience that feels alive. Both switches excel in responsiveness and comfort, with the Akashi offering a more diverse range of smooth and polished sensations, while the Laurel focuses on providing a snappy typing feel.
In conclusion, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch each offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Akashi provides a resonant, clacky sound with a creamy and polished typing feel, while the Laurel offers a low-pitched sound and a snappy typing experience. Depending on whether the user prefers a brighter, crisper sound or a more bass-heavy tone, and a creamy, frictionless typing feel or a more responsive, snappy experience, they can choose between these two switches to suit their individual preferences. Both switches promise a high-quality typing experience, ensuring that users will get satisfying results regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the BSUN Akashi linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on their characteristics. If you value a bright, crisp bottom-out sound and a resonant typing experience, the Akashi switch with its unique UPE stem and hybrid housing design may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a subtly low-pitched sound profile and a balance of responsiveness and comfort, the Laurel switch with its full POM housing and long pole design could be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the sound, feel, and overall typing experience offered by each switch.
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