Bsun Akashi vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Bsun Akashi and the KTT Mint mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Akashi stands out for its innovative design featuring a UPE stem for smoothness and a POM top with a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a combination that delivers a bright, crisp bottom-out sound with deep acoustic richness. On the other hand, the Mint is praised for its satisfyingly smooth typing experience thanks to its long pole stem that produces a poppy thockiness and a light, fleeting feel. While the Akashi is described as 'Clacky,' 'Creamy,' 'Frictionless,' 'Polished,' 'Silky,' 'Snappy,' and 'Easy-to-press,' the Mint is labeled as 'Low-pitched,' 'Neutral,' 'Mild,' and 'Polished.' To choose between these two switches, it is important to delve deeper beyond these generalities to determine which one will best suit your specific typing preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Akashi and the KTT Mint both feature POM top housings, but the Mint's is made of polycarbonate. POM housings are known for creating a pleasing and unique sound, with a deeper and more muted profile. On the other hand, polycarbonate top housings create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. The use of polycarbonate in the Mint's top housing is especially advantageous if you plan to use RGB lighting, as its translucency enhances the visual appeal of the switch.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Akashi and the Mint utilize nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that enhances the sound profile by creating a deeper and fuller sound. Its softness and ability to absorb sound contribute to a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, typing on switches with nylon bottom housings will provide a tactile and satisfying experience, regardless of whether it is the Akashi or the Mint.
While the top and bottom housings of the Bsun Akashi and the KTT Mint are different, they both offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences. The qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, affecting the sound and feel when pressing down and letting go of a key. The choice between POM and polycarbonate top housings, as well as nylon bottom housings, ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, we can see that the Akashi is lighter in both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Mint. The Akashi has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Mint has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. The Akashi provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Mint offers a slightly heavier push feel, giving users a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the Akashi is lighter while the Mint is heavier, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, making it slightly shorter than the KTT Mint linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both of these distances fall within the range of shorter travel distances, as compared to the more traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the Akashi switch for its slightly faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Mint switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for 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 KTT Mint comes in at $2.91 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 described as having a clacky sound, which is sharp, snappy, crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switch is known for its low-pitched sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow, with a neutral profile suitable for various purposes. The choice of the board and keycaps can also influence the sound produced by these switches, leading to different auditory experiences.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Akashi linear switch offers a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press typing experience. The switch is smooth and buttery, effortless, refined, and easy to activate, providing a luxurious and responsive feel to the user. Conversely, the KTT Mint linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle and approachable feel that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone for most users. Both switches are designed to offer a comfortable and smooth typing experience, albeit with different characteristics to cater to varying preferences.
Overall, the Bsun Akashi and KTT Mint linear switches offer unique sound and feel qualities to enhance the typing experience for users. The Akashi provides a resonant and bright sound with a smooth and responsive feel, while the Mint offers a mellower sound and a gentle typing experience. Regardless of the choice between these two switches, users can expect satisfying results tailored to their preferences and needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Bsun Akashi linear switch or the KTT Mint linear switch, you should opt for the Akashi if you prefer a light bottom out force, a clacky sound profile, and a creamy, frictionless, and polished typing feel. The Akashi's unique design and tactile feedback will provide a resonant and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force, a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, and a mild and polished typing feel, then the KTT Mint linear switch would be more suitable for you. The Mint offers a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a poppy thockiness and a gentle feel that most users will find comfortable. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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