Bsun Akashi vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Durock Mamba switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Akashi and the Durock Mamba linear mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that both offer unique experiences for users. The Akashi stands out with its UPE stem and hybrid housing, providing a bright bottom-out sound and resonant keystrokes. On the other hand, the Mamba offers a smooth and creamy typing experience with a tribute to Kobe Bryant. Both switches are categorized as polished, but the Akashi is also described as clacky and snappy, while the Mamba is noted for being thocky and neutral. 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
60g
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
Ly
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Akashi and Durock Mamba both utilize unique housing materials for their switches, with the Akashi featuring a POM top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Mamba incorporates a blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE for the top housing and POM for the bottom housing. Both switches aim to provide a pleasing sound profile, with the Akashi offering a deeper and more muted sound, while the Mamba leans towards a brighter but not sharp sound. Despite the differences in materials used for the housing, both switches strive to enhance the typing experience by providing a distinct sound profile that is enjoyable for users.
In terms of the top housing, the Akashi's POM material and the Mamba's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. While the Akashi's POM top housing creates a deep and muted sound, the Mamba's blend provides a brighter and pleasant tone. The differences in sound profiles between these two switches can be attributed to the distinct properties of the top housing materials used, showcasing how varying housing materials can impact the auditory experience of typing on mechanical keyboards.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of the switches also plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switches. The Akashi's nylon bottom housing and the Mamba's POM bottom housing both aim to create a fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics. While the Akashi's bottom housing elicits a deeper and softer sound, the Mamba's POM material contributes to a relatively muted sound. Despite the differences in bottom housing materials, both switches prioritize providing a well-rounded typing experience by focusing on the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, it is clear that the Akashi is the lighter option with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. In contrast, the Mamba is the heavier option with a bottom out force of 60 grams, although its actuation force is unknown. The Akashi provides a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for those who prefer to type for longer periods or engage in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Mamba offers a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. Both switches have benefits depending on individual preference, with the Akashi being lighter and the Mamba being heavier. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Durock Mamba linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Akashi has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Mamba, which means that it may provide a slightly deeper key press feeling. However, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feeling.
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 Mamba has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mamba for $5.17.
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 is described as having a clacky sound profile, which is sharp, snappy, and percussive. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba linear switch is said to have a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various applications, along with a thocky sound that provides a deep, rich, and satisfying auditory experience. Both switches offer different sound characteristics, with the Akashi providing a bright and crisp bottom-out noise, while the Mamba delivers a rich and creamy typing sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Bsun Akashi is known for its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press qualities. These attributes result in a smooth and buttery typing experience, with reduced friction, smooth key travel, and enhanced responsiveness. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba is described as having a mild and polished feel, offering a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Akashi emphasizing responsiveness and smoothness, while the Mamba focuses on a gentle and approachable feel.
In conclusion, the Bsun Akashi linear switch offers a unique and resonant typing experience with its clacky sound profile and creamy, frictionless feel. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba linear switch provides a gliding typing sensation and a rich and creamy auditory experience with its neutral sound profile and mild feel. Depending on the user's preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance the typing experience. Additionally, the polished attribute common to both switches indicates a smooth and refined finish, ensuring a sleek and comfortable typing experience regardless of the choice between the Akashi and Mamba switches. Ultimately, users can expect satisfying results from both switches, each providing their own set of unique characteristics for an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more resonant sound with a unique tactile feedback, the Akashi may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a gliding typing sensation with a rich and creamy auditory experience, the Mamba switch could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference for feel, sound, and typing experience.
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