Bsun Akashi vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The BSUN Akashi linear switch is renowned for its innovative design incorporating a UPE stem and a unique housing combination of POM top and nylon bottom, resulting in a distinct and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a gentle tactility and a fairly muted sound profile, making it ideal for office settings where quiet professionalism is key. While the Akashi is characterized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Snappy', the Mini i is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Subtle', and 'Stepped'. Both switches have their own strengths and purposes, with the Akashi providing a smooth and polished typing experience and the Mini i offering a comfortable and quiet option for extended periods of use. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Akashi and the Gateron Mini i both use nylon as their bottom housing material, which means they both elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of this plastic. However, where they differ is in their top housing material. The Akashi uses POM, resulting in a more muted and deeper sound profile, while the Mini i utilizes nylon for its top housing, creating a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in top housing materials gives each switch a unique sound profile that caters to different preferences.
When it comes to comparing the bottom housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron Mini i, both switches offer a similar typing experience with their use of nylon. The characteristics of nylon as a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics are present in both switches, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the bottom housing may not be as noticeable in terms of sound when compared to the top housing, it still plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall typing experience by contributing to the switch's acoustics.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches like the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron Mini i can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing on these switches. While both switches share a similar bottom housing material in nylon, their top housing materials set them apart in terms of sound profiles. The Akashi's POM top housing creates a uniquely muted and deep sound, while the Mini i's nylon top housing produces a rounder and duller sound. Ultimately, the combination of these housing materials in each switch contributes to a distinct typing experience that appeals to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, we see that the Akashi has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Mini i's 40 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Akashi is also lighter at 43 grams, while the Mini i is heavier at 50 grams. This means that the Akashi will have a lighter keystroke feel overall compared to the Mini i. Both switches provide a smooth typing experience, but the Akashi might be preferred for those who value a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the Mini i could be chosen by those who prefer a slightly more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, it is clear that the Mini i has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Akashi's 3.7 mm travel distance. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The Mini i's shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for more responsiveness, while the Akashi's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feeling when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired typing experience.
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 Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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 sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, with a moderate sound level that is suitable for various environments. The choice between the two would depend on your preference for a more distinctive, clacky sound or a neutral, office-friendly sound.
In terms of feel, the Akashi linear switch offers a variety of tactile experiences, from creamy and frictionless to polished and silky. The typing experience can be described as smooth, effortless, and responsive, with different descriptors highlighting the switch's unique qualities. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch provides a bouncy and easy-to-press typing experience, with a mild and subtle feel that is comfortable for long typing sessions. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, with the Akashi providing a more varied range of sensations compared to the Mini i.
In conclusion, the BSUN Akashi linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Akashi provides a more resonant and textured sound experience, along with a range of smooth and responsive tactile sensations. On the other hand, the Mini i offers a neutral sound profile and a comfortable, gentle typing feel that is suitable for office environments. Both switches have their unique strengths, and the choice between the two would depend on your preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Ultimately, no matter which switch you choose, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience with either the Akashi or the Mini i.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the BSUN Akashi linear switch or the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a smooth and creamy typing experience with a unique sound profile, then the Akashi switch may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle and bouncy feel with a more muted sound profile suitable for office environments, the Gateron Mini i switch could be the better option for you. Both switches offer their own distinct characteristics, so it's essential to consider what qualities matter most to you in a keyboard switch before making your decision.
Mentioned in this article
