Bsun Akashi vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Akashi linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch stand out for their unique features. The Akashi switch offers a smooth and distinct tactile feedback thanks to its UPE stem and hybrid housing design, resulting in a bright and crisp bottom-out sound. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Snappy', these linear switches provide a novel and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch redefines the clicky switch category by incorporating smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems for a classic clicky sound with added smoothness. Categorized as 'Buttery' and 'Invigorating', this switch delivers an enjoyable typing experience without sacrificing on tactile feedback. 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
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron Melodic switches both contribute to the overall sound profiles of the switches. The Akashi's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Melodic's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to feature RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Akashi and Melodic both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound.
While both the Akashi and Melodic switches feature nylon bottom housings, they differ in their top housing materials. This creates a distinction in sound profiles between the two switches. The Akashi's POM top housing offers a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper and more muted, providing a different typing experience compared to the Melodic's polycarbonate top housing, which produces a crisper and sharper sound. This difference in sound can impact the overall feel of typing on each switch and cater to different preferences based on the desired sound profile.
The split between the top and bottom housing materials in the Akashi and Melodic switches results in a combination of qualities that influence the overall typing experience. The bottom housing material has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Akashi and Melodic switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to varying preferences, with the choice between POM and polycarbonate housing materials providing distinct typing experiences for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it is evident that the Akashi is lighter in both aspects. The Akashi has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Melodic has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The Akashi offers a lighter typing experience, which may be preferred by those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Melodic provides a more substantial typing feel due to its heavier bottom out force, which some users may prefer for a stronger push sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Melodic switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Akashi switch. The 0.3 mm difference may not seem like much, but it can impact the overall feel and response of the switch. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Akashi switch for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Melodic switch. Both switches offer a good balance between depth and responsiveness, so ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference.
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 Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 the sound of the Bsun Akashi linear switch, users can expect a clacky and bright sound with a crisp bottom-out due to the unique design of the UPE stem and hybrid housing. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch boasts a resonant and higher-pitched sound profile, giving users an immersive auditory experience along with a crunchy sound typical of clicky switches. Depending on the user's preference, the Akashi provides a more sharp and percussive sound, while the Melodic offers a cleaner and sharper sound associated with classic clicky switches.
In terms of feel, the Akashi offers a creamy and frictionless typing experience with a polished and silky sensation that makes each keystroke smooth and effortless. The switch is also described as snappy and easy-to-press, providing super responsiveness and minimal resistance during key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic switch is characterized as buttery and invigorating, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and moderate to firm actuation force for a snappy and reactive feel. Both switches aim to provide users with a comfortable and satisfying typing experience, ensuring that each keystroke is smooth and precise.
In conclusion, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offer unique sound and feel experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Akashi provides a clacky sound and a creamy, frictionless feel, the Melodic delivers a resonant sound and a buttery, invigorating typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and typing feel. However, both switches offer high-quality performance and can enhance the overall typing experience for users looking for a premium mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your preferences. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a unique tactile feedback experience with a bright and crisp sound profile, the Akashi linear switch might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium actuation force with a classic clicky sound, smoothness, and immersive auditory experience, the Melodic clicky switch could be more aligned with your typing style. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns with your desired sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
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