Bsun Akashi vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Akashi and the SP-Star Meteor Orange offer unique experiences for users seeking different tactile feedback. The Akashi linear switch stands out for its smooth UPE stem and distinctive POM top and nylon bottom housing combo, resulting in a bright and crisp bottom-out sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange tactile switch is praised for its gentle tactility and neutral sound profile, providing a soft and seductive typing experience. While the Akashi is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Snappy', the Meteor Orange is classified as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Thocky'. These general descriptions can help you decide which switch might suit your preferences best; 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
57g
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
Nylon
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 Bsun Akashi and the SP-Star Meteor Orange both use nylon as their bottom housing material, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when compared to harder plastics. However, the Akashi uses a POM top housing, which offers a unique and pleasing sound profile on the deeper side but is relatively more muted. In contrast, the Meteor Orange also utilizes nylon for its top housing, providing a similar deep and full sound profile as the bottom housing.
In terms of the individual components, the Akashi's top housing made from POM may offer a slightly different typing experience compared to the Meteor Orange's nylon top housing. The POM material is said to create a more unique sound that is on the deeper side but relatively more muted. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Meteor Orange contributes to a fuller and deeper sound, emphasizing the differences in sound profiles between the two switches. However, both switches share the use of nylon for the bottom housing, which means they will both have a similar impact on the overall sound profile and feel of the switch.
When considering how the top and bottom housing materials influence the typing experience, it's important to note that each material contributes different qualities to the switch. The bottom housing material has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when the key is released. This means that the choice of housing material for both the top and bottom can significantly alter the overall sound profile and feel of a switch. In the case of the Bsun Akashi and SP-Star Meteor Orange, their combination of nylon and POM housing materials create distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, it is evident that the Akashi is the lighter option. The Akashi has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it a good choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 57 grams, which is medium-light. Some may find the heavier bottom out force of the Meteor Orange to provide a more substantial typing experience compared to the Akashi. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces. If a lighter touch is preferred, the Akashi would be the better option, while those seeking a slightly firmer feel may lean towards the Meteor Orange. Regardless, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch. This means that the Akashi offers a slightly quicker key press than the Meteor Orange. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Akashi due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper key press may lean towards the Meteor Orange for its longer travel distance. Both switches offer a different typing experience, but ultimately the choice between the two depends on personal preference for key press depth.
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 SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Akashi linear switch offers a clacky experience, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile, suitable for various settings, along with a thocky sound that is deep, rich, and satisfying. The Akashi's sound is more vibrant and resonant, while the Meteor Orange offers a softer and more subtle sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Akashi switch is described as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press, providing a smooth, effortless, and responsive typing experience. The SP-Star Meteor Orange switch, on the other hand, offers a mild and polished feel, emphasizing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches aim to deliver a comfortable and enjoyable typing feel, with the Akashi focusing on responsiveness and the Meteor Orange emphasizing a softer tactile experience.
Overall, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Akashi provides a clacky sound and a variety of smooth and responsive tactile feels, the Meteor Orange offers a neutral sound profile and a gentle typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different characteristics. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on whether one prefers a more vibrant and resonant typing experience with the Akashi or a softer and subtler typing feel with the Meteor Orange.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the BSUN Akashi linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, consider the following guidelines: If you prefer a light bottom out force and a unique tactile feedback with a distinct sound profile, the Akashi linear switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a gentle tactility with a neutral sound profile, the Meteor Orange tactile switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing experience and sound profile to enhance your overall keyboarding enjoyment.
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