Bsun Akashi vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Akashi and Cherry Nixie linear switches both offer unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience. The Akashi stands out with its UPE stem and hybrid housing combo, providing a smooth and resonant typing experience with a bright bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the Nixie is celebrated for its substantial weight and textured typing feel, along with the updated materials and springs from Cherry's MX2A update. While the Akashi is praised for its clacky and polished feel, the Nixie is known for its textured and low-pitched typing sensation. 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
80g
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 Cherry Nixie both showcase the use of nylon, a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. However, the Akashi uses POM for its top housing, which creates a more muted sound profile compared to the Nixie's nylon top housing. This difference in materials brings a unique sound experience to each switch.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Akashi and the Nixie utilize nylon, which again contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing absorbs sound and creates a softer impact when keys are pressed, resulting in a more satisfying typing experience. While both switches share this quality, the overall sound experience may differ slightly due to other design factors. The split between bottom and top housing materials allows for a nuanced sound profile that combines the unique characteristics of each material.
Overall, the housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Cherry Nixie provide distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The POM top housing of the Akashi gives it a more muted sound compared to the Nixie's nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches utilize nylon in the bottom housing, contributing to a softer impact and a more satisfying typing experience. While the split between top and bottom housing materials may influence the overall sound profile of each switch, both offer a unique sound experience that showcases the effects of different housing materials.
Weight
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Cherry Nixie linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Akashi requires 43 grams while the Nixie needs 80 grams, making the Akashi lighter in this aspect as well. Those who prefer a more gentle typing experience may opt for the Akashi switch due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces, allowing for extended typing sessions without much strain. On the other hand, the Nixie switch would be more appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing, providing a more tactile and responsive typing experience. In both cases, the choice between the switches ultimately comes down to personal preference based on the desired typing feel and experience.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Akashi offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Nixie. The difference may not be significant, but for gamers seeking faster response times, the Akashi may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may find the Nixie more satisfying due to its slightly longer travel distance. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, with the Akashi leaning towards the shorter end and the Nixie being closer to the traditional 4.0mm travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for keypress depth 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 Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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 clacky sound, which is sharp, snappy, crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch produces a thocky sound that is deep, rich, and satisfying, with a low-pitched tone that is more bass-heavy and mellow. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Akashi providing a more vibrant and resonant experience compared to the Nixie's traditional and substantial sound.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Akashi linear switch is described as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press. These descriptors point towards a smooth and effortless typing experience, with minimal resistance and a polished finish that enhances overall typing comfort. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is described as textured, indicating noticeable friction when pressed. This textured feel may appeal to users who prefer a bit of resistance in their typing experience.
Overall, the Bsun Akashi linear switch offers a unique sound contrast with a bright, crisp bottom-out and a deep acoustic richness, coupled with a smooth and buttery typing feel that enhances the overall keystroke experience. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie linear switch blends tradition with modern innovation, providing a substantial and textured typing experience with a deep, satisfying sound profile. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the vibrant and resonant Akashi switch or the traditional and substantial Nixie switch to achieve their desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel to guide your choice. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams and enjoy a clacky sound with a creamy, frictionless, or silky typing feel, the Akashi switch may be the ideal option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams and enjoy a thocky, low-pitched sound with a textured typing feel, the Nixie switch might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are seeking. Consider trying both switches to determine which one best suits your needs and preferences in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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