Bsun Akashi vs. Gazzew LT
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Gazzew LT switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch to the Gazzew LT linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences. The Akashi switch is recognized for its novel tactile feedback, featuring a UPE stem, POM top, and nylon bottom combination that results in a bright, crisp bottom-out sound with deep acoustic richness. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT switch stands out with its lilac hue and deep, resonant thockiness, offering a seamless glide with each keystroke. While the Akashi switch is described as 'clacky', 'creamy', and 'snappy', the LT switch is characterized as 'bassy' and 'low-pitched'. Both switches provide a smooth typing experience, but with distinct sound profiles and feels. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Akashi and the Gazzew LT both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Akashi's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the LT's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing delivers a rich and deep sound due to its softness. Both top housings aim to enhance the overall typing experience, but with slightly different characteristics. The POM top housing of the Akashi may provide a more subdued typing sound, while the Gazzew blend top housing of the LT offers a richer sound profile.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Akashi utilizes nylon, known for its ability to produce a deep and fuller sound profile due to its softness. The LT also features a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, which delivers a rich and deep sound profile similar to the top housing material. Both bottom housings aim to enhance the sound and feel of typing on the switches. The use of softer plastics in both bottom housings helps to absorb more sound and contribute to a rounder and duller sound profile.
When comparing the overall housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Gazzew LT, it is evident that both switches prioritize creating a unique and pleasing sound profile. The Akashi's combination of POM top housing and nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and more muted sound, while the Gazzew LT's proprietary blend top and bottom housing materials deliver a rich and deep sound due to their softness. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches aim to provide an enhanced typing experience with their distinctive sound profiles.
Weight
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, providing a smooth typing experience for those who prefer a lighter touch. In contrast, the Gazzew LT linear switch has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience for users who like a stronger push feel. The actuation force of the LT switch is unknown, but its heavier bottom out force suggests a more tactile typing experience overall. Those who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing sessions may lean towards the Akashi switch, while users who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback may opt for the LT switch for a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gazzew LT linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. The Akashi switch offers a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the slightly shorter travel distance of the LT switch may appeal to those looking for a more responsive and quick keystroke. Overall, the choice between the 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 Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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 and bright bottom-out sound, thanks to its unique stem and housing combination. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT linear switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile that is deep and resonant. Both switches provide a satisfying auditory experience, with the Akashi offering a brighter and crisper sound compared to the LT's deeper and richer tones. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a sharper clacky sound or a smoother thocky sound when typing on these switches.
In terms of feel, the Akashi linear switch boasts a creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience, providing a smooth and effortless keystroke. The switch's silky sensation allows for fluid key travel, ideal for those seeking a refined typing feel. On the other hand, information about the Gazzew LT linear switch's tactile feel is not available. However, it is likely that the LT switch offers a similar level of smoothness and responsiveness based on its reputation for a seamless glide during typing sessions. Users can expect a comfortable and low-impact typing experience with both switches, with the Akashi delivering a more lubricated and polished feel compared to the LT's anticipated smoothness.
In conclusion, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Akashi provides a clacky and creamy typing experience with a bright sound profile, the LT offers a deep and bassy thocky sound with a likely smooth glide feel. Ultimately, both switches promise a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience, allowing users to choose based on their desired auditory and tactile preferences. Whether opting for the Akashi or the LT, users can anticipate similar results in terms of overall quality and performance.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, you should consider your preferences in terms of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom out force of 43 grams and enjoy a clacky sound profile with a creamy, frictionless, or polished feel, then the Akashi switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and enjoy a bassy, thocky, low-pitched sound profile with a lilac aesthetic and a seamless glide feeling, then the Gazzew LT switch may be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the typing experience you are looking to achieve.