Bsun Akashi vs. SP-Star Meteor White
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the SP-Star Meteor White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch to the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, it becomes evident that both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Akashi stands out for its innovative design featuring a UPE stem, POM top, and nylon bottom, which result in a distinct sound profile and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Meteor White provides a more subdued and gentle typing experience with a soft sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter keyboard. While the Akashi is characterized by being clacky, creamy, and snappy, the Meteor White is described as neutral, mild, and thocky. Both switches offer polished and frictionless keystrokes, but in different ways. 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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the SP-Star Meteor White both utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. However, the Akashi features a POM top housing while the Meteor White uses a nylon top housing. The POM top housing of the Akashi creates a more muted and unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper side, compared to the fuller sound profile of the Meteor White's nylon top housing.
In terms of sound profile, the housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the SP-Star Meteor White offer slightly different experiences when typing. The Akashi's POM top housing provides a more pleasing and unique sound that is relatively muted, while the Meteor White's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share a commonality in their use of nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a similar experience of a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. However, the Akashi's POM top housing may provide a slightly different sound experience compared to the Meteor White's nylon top housing.
The split between the top and bottom housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the SP-Star Meteor White results in different impacts on the sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing, being made of nylon in both switches, has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. On the other hand, the top housing material, whether POM or nylon, affects the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings adds to the distinct typing experiences offered by the Akashi and Meteor White switches.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Akashi 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 lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Meteor White switch has an unknown actuation force and a heavier bottom out force of 57 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. This means that the Meteor White switch is the heavier of the two. Some users may appreciate the Akashi's lighter weight for longer typing sessions, while others may gravitate towards the Meteor White for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7mm, making it the shorter option compared to the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch which has a travel distance of 4mm. If you are looking for a faster response time and prefer a shorter travel distance, the Akashi switch would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial key press with a longer travel distance, then the Meteor White switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distance, so choosing between them ultimately depends on your personal preference for the typing or gaming experience you desire.
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 White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White 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 is known for its distinctive clacky sound profile, offering a sharp and percussive experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch provides a more neutral sound profile, described as thocky, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Akashi leaning towards a brighter and crisper sound, while the Meteor White delivers a softer and more gentle sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the BSUN Akashi linear switch is praised for its creamy and frictionless typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with minimal resistance. The Akashi switch is also noted for being polished, providing a sleek and refined feel during typing. In contrast, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a mild and approachable typing experience, falling into a safe middle ground of smoothness and gentle feedback. Like the Akashi, the Meteor White switch is also described as polished, emphasizing reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the BSUN Akashi linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offer contrasting yet appealing qualities in both sound and feel. While the Akashi provides a clacky and resonant sound with a creamy and frictionless feel, the Meteor White offers a softer and thocky sound profile with a mild and polished typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring that users can find their preferred tactile and auditory experience based on their individual preferences. Ultimately, whether you choose the Akashi or the Meteor White, you can expect a high-quality and enjoyable typing experience tailored to your liking.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter switch with a unique, resonant sound and a smooth, buttery typing experience, the Bsun Akashi may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a gentle, pitter-patter sound profile and a more approachable typing experience, the SP-Star Meteor White could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what qualities and characteristics you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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