Bsun Akashi vs. Everglide Lightning Silver V3
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Akashi and Everglide Lightning Silver V3 both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Akashi linear switches are known for their smoothness and distinctive sound profile, thanks to the UPE stem and hybrid housing combination. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 linear switches provide a clacky and high-pitched sound signature along with a seamless typing experience and RGB illumination enhancement. While both switches fall into the 'Clacky' category, the Akashi is described as 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Polished', 'Silky', 'Snappy', and 'Easy-to-press', while the Lightning Silver V3 is characterized by being 'High-pitched' and 'Silky'. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Akashi and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 both have distinct housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profile. The Akashi's POM top housing creates a deep and muted sound, while the Lightning Silver V3's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Lightning Silver V3 allows for RGB lighting to shine through, giving it a visually appealing feature. On the other hand, the Akashi's nylon bottom housing results in a fuller and deeper sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Lightning Silver V3 offers a sharper and more resonant sound.
While the top housings of the Bsun Akashi and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 differ in material, with POM and polycarbonate respectively, the bottom housings also showcase this difference. The nylon bottom housing of the Akashi provides a softer and more sound-absorbing quality, contributing to a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Lightning Silver V3 offers a stiffer material that leads to a clearer and more resonant sound. When pressing down on either switch, you will feel the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will impact the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and overall typing experience of these switches. The choice between POM and polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon and polycarbonate for the bottom housing results in distinct characteristics in sound and feel. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound like that of the Akashi or a sharper and crisper sound like that of the Lightning Silver V3, both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams compared to the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, which has a medium actuation force of 48 grams and a medium bottom out force of 60 grams. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Akashi more appealing for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 offers a slightly heavier feel, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push. Both switches offer different options for actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Akashi linear switch is 3.7 mm, while the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular among gamers seeking faster response times. The Akashi switch offers a slightly longer travel distance for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes, while the Lightning Silver V3 provides a slightly quicker and more abrupt feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired 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 Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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 Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches offer a clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The Akashi showcases a bright and crisp bottom-out sound due to its unique stem and housing design, while the Lightning Silver V3 offers a high-pitched sound for those who prefer a sharper tone. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in sound, as both switches deliver distinct auditory experiences.
When it comes to feel, the Akashi boasts a creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience, offering smooth and effortless key presses with minimal resistance and a refined finish. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 is known for its silky feel, enhancing the overall smoothness of typing by minimizing resistance during key presses and releases. Both switches prioritize a comfortable and responsive typing experience, albeit through slightly different tactile approaches. Whether you prefer the creamy and polished sensation of the Akashi or the silky smoothness of the Lightning Silver V3, both switches excel in providing a pleasant typing feel.
Overall, the Bsun Akashi and Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switches offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences for keyboard enthusiasts to enjoy. While the Akashi emphasizes a resonant and deep sound with a variety of smooth tactile options, the Lightning Silver V3 focuses on a clacky and high-pitched sound paired with a silky smooth key feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences in sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Both switches are sure to provide a satisfying typing experience to newcomers looking to explore the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, or easy-to-press feel, the Akashi may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a silky typing experience and appreciate a high-pitched, clacky sound profile, then the Lightning Silver V3 switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the tactile feedback, sound profile, and overall typing feel that aligns with your personal preferences and typing style.
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