Bsun Akashi vs. PH Studio Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the linear Bsun Akashi and PH Studio Milk Tea mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note their unique characteristics. The Akashi stands out for its innovative design, featuring a UPE stem for smoothness and a hybrid housing combo that produces a bright, crisp bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the Milk Tea offers a high-pitched yet muted auditory experience, with a low bottom-out force for comfortable typing sessions. Both switches provide a polished and silky feel, but the Akashi leans towards a more resonant tactile feedback while the Milk Tea offers a marbly sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
37.5g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
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
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and PH Studio Milk Tea switches are quite similar in terms of their POM top housing. Both switches utilize POM housing for their top housing, which results in an incredibly pleasing and unique sound profile that is deeper and more muted compared to other materials. This similarity in housing material for the top housing of the switches means that users can expect a consistent sound experience when typing on either the Akashi or Milk Tea switches.
Where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Akashi features a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. On the other hand, the Milk Tea utilizes a POM bottom housing, which also contributes to the pleasing and unique sound profile characteristic of POM material. While the sound profile may be similar between the two switches due to their shared POM top housing, the feel and sound when bottoming out a key may vary slightly due to the different bottom housing materials.
The impact of the housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches can be felt differently depending on whether it is the top or the bottom housing. The bottom housing material, whether it be nylon or POM, will have a more pronounced effect on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing on the switch. On the other hand, the top housing material will influence the sound when releasing a key, providing a more nuanced and detailed typing experience. Despite these differences in bottom housing materials, the shared POM top housing ensures that both the Akashi and Milk Tea switches deliver a consistently unique and pleasing sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, both switches have a similar actuation force and bottom out force, with the Akashi being slightly lighter. The Akashi has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Milk Tea has an actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams. Both switches offer a relatively light typing experience, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing for extended periods. The slight difference in force between the two switches may not be noticeable to the average user, resulting in similar results for both switches in terms of typing feel and performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for a slightly lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. For those who prefer a more responsive feel, the shorter travel distance of the Milk Tea switch may be the preferred choice. However, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may find the slightly longer travel distance of the Akashi switch to be more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
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 PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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 sound, the Bsun Akashi linear switch is known for its clacky and resonant nature, offering a bright and percussive bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch provides a unique auditory experience with a higher-pitched yet muted sound profile, creating a balance between presence and subtlety. Both switches offer distinct sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Akashi leaning towards a brighter and crisper sound while the Milk Tea provides a gentle and slightly muted tone.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Akashi switch is described as creamy, frictionless, and polished, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance. The use of UPE stem and hybrid housing contributes to the silky sensation and snappy response of each keystroke. Conversely, the Milk Tea switch boasts a polished and silky feel, ensuring a refined and smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance during key presses. Both switches prioritize ease of use and comfort, making them ideal for prolonged typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Bsun Akashi and PH Studio Milk Tea linear switches offer distinctive sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Akashi provides a brighter and clacky sound with a creamy and frictionless typing feel, the Milk Tea offers a unique higher-pitched and polished experience with a silky touch. Whether you prefer a resonant and snappy sound or a muted yet refined tone, both switches guarantee a satisfying and immersive typing experience suitable for various typing needs. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel in mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the BSUN Akashi linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you value a unique auditory experience with a bright, crisp bottom-out and resonant sound contrast, the Akashi may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle balance between a high-pitched yet muted sound profile, along with a smooth and effortless typing experience tailored for prolonged use, the Milk Tea switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your choice should align with your preferences for sound, feel, and typing style to enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
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