Bsun Akashi vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch offer distinct typing experiences. The Akashi is celebrated for its smooth UPE stem and unique POM top with a nylon bottom housing combination, which creates a bright and crisp bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the Matcha is praised for its comfortable and snappy tactility, along with a clean bottom-out sound from its long pole stem. The Akashi is described as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Polished', 'Silky', 'Snappy', and 'Easy-to-press', while the Matcha is categorized as 'Stepped', 'Snappy', 'Accented', 'Clacky', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the KTT Matcha, it is evident that they both use different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Akashi features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and relatively muted sound profile, while the Matcha utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. Similarly, the Akashi's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Matcha's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a higher-pitched and clearer sound profile. This difference in housing materials leads to distinct typing experiences when using these switches.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Akashi and Matcha switches, they both share the characteristic of utilizing clear housings. This feature allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, the choice of POM and nylon materials in the Akashi results in a more subdued and rounder sound profile, while the polycarbonate materials used in the Matcha create a sharper and more resonant sound. This variation in sound quality can significantly impact the typing experience for users depending on their preferences for sound profiles.
In terms of functionality, the top and bottom housings play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of a switch. The qualities of the bottom housing, whether it be nylon or polycarbonate, will have a more prominent effect on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing material, whether it be POM or polycarbonate, will influence the sound produced when releasing a key. Understanding how these housing materials interact with each other can help users make informed decisions when choosing between the Akashi and Matcha switches based on their preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a softer typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Matcha tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 40 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a bit more resistance for a more substantial typing feel. Both switches offer a light overall feel, making them ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two would come down to personal preference regarding the level of force desired for typing.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the KTT Matcha tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Akashi has a shorter travel distance compared to the Matcha. The Akashi's 3.7 mm travel distance offers a quicker response time, making it ideal for gamers who need fast reflexes. On the other hand, the Matcha's 4 mm travel distance provides a more significant depth to the keystroke, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prefer a more responsive typing feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of typing style and comfort.
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 Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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, both the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch are described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This contributes to a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience with each keystroke. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Akashi is praised for its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press qualities, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance and fluid key travel. On the other hand, the Matcha is noted for its stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle attributes, providing a tactile sensation with two stages, responsiveness, a medium amount of tactility, light keypresses, and a gentle yet present resistance. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by offering unique tactile feedback tailored to different preferences.
Considering the subjective qualities presented, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch offer distinct yet satisfying typing experiences. While the Akashi excels in providing a smooth and resonant sound with its unique design, the Matcha stands out with its comfortable tactility and clean bottom-out sound. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a linear switch with a bright sound profile or a tactile switch with a comfortable feel. However, both switches promise to deliver a high-quality typing experience that caters to individual preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Bsun Akashi linear switch or the KTT Matcha tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you value a unique and resonant keystroke sound with a smooth and buttery feel, then the Akashi switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a snappy tactility with a clean bottom-out sound and a light typing feel, then the Matcha switch could be the perfect fit. Each switch offers its own distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what type of typing experience you prefer before making your decision. Ultimately, both switches provide high-quality performance and features that make them standout options in the mechanical keyboard switch market.
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