Bsun Akashi vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch to the Bsun Olive tactile switch, it becomes clear that each offers a unique typing experience. The Akashi is characterized by its smooth UPE stem and hybrid POM top and nylon bottom housing combination, resulting in a bright, crisp bottom-out sound. In contrast, the Olive switch features an all-POM housing that delivers a deep, resonant sound, along with pronounced tactile feedback for a satisfying typing experience. While the Akashi may appeal to those seeking a smoother, clackier typing experience, the Olive switch may be preferred by those looking for a more tactile and satisfying key press. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and Bsun Olive switches differ in terms of their composition. The Akashi features a POM top housing paired with a nylon bottom housing, while the Olive has both the top and bottom housing made of POM. The use of POM in both the top and bottom housing of the Olive results in a consistent sound profile that is deep and relatively muted, while the Akashi's combination of POM and nylon creates a unique sound experience with a deeper and fuller sound. This showcases how the choice of housing materials can significantly impact the overall sound and typing experience of a switch.
Despite the difference in housing materials between the Bsun Akashi and Bsun Olive switches, they both share the characteristic of creating a pleasing and unique sound profile. Both switches offer a deeper sound with a relatively muted tone, showcasing the versatility of POM as a housing material. However, the use of nylon in the Akashi's bottom housing adds an extra layer of depth and fullness to the sound profile, providing a slightly different typing experience compared to the Olive. This highlights how small variations in housing materials can result in noticeable differences in sound and feel when typing on mechanical switches.
The split between the top and bottom housing materials in the Bsun Akashi switch allows for a nuanced typing experience, with the qualities of each material being felt in different aspects of the sound profile. The impact of the bottom housing is more pronounced when bottoming out a key, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound, while the top housing plays a greater role in the sound when releasing a key. In contrast, the Bsun Olive's consistent use of POM in both the top and bottom housing creates a uniform sound profile that is deep and muted throughout the typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a unique and satisfying sound profile, with the choice of housing materials playing a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, we can see a clear difference in weight. The Akashi has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it a more lightweight option. On the other hand, the Olive has a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, giving it a medium-heavy feel. The Akashi provides a smoother and easier typing experience with its lighter touch, making it ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. Meanwhile, the Olive offers a more substantial push feel, appealing to those who prefer a stronger typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Bsun Olive tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Akashi has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Olive. However, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prefer faster response times, such as gamers. The Akashi may provide a bit more depth in the key press compared to the Olive, which could be beneficial for those who prefer a more robust feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
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 Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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 Akashi switch is often described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound with each press. On the other hand, the Olive switch's sound quality is not known, but with its all-POM housing, it likely offers a resonant and deep sound profile. Ultimately, the sound quality of both switches will depend on additional factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Akashi switch offers a creamy typing experience, characterized by a smooth and buttery sensation with each keystroke. This is due to factors such as lubrication and specific materials used in the switch. Additionally, the Akashi switch is described as frictionless, polished, silky, and easy-to-press, providing a range of tactile experiences for users. On the other hand, the Olive switch is known for being accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, offering pronounced feedback and a reactive feel. Both switches provide distinct tactile sensations that cater to different typing preferences.
In conclusion, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch offer unique sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. The Akashi switch provides a clacky sound with a creamy and frictionless feel, while the Olive switch likely offers a resonant sound with a tactile and snappy feel. Depending on the user's preference for sound and tactile feedback, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for typing feel and sound characteristics.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when considering whether to choose the BSUN Akashi linear switch or the BSUN Olive tactile switch, you should take into account your preferences for typing experience. If you're looking for a smooth and effortless typing experience with a light actuation force and a unique sound contrast, the Akashi linear switch with its creamy, frictionless, and silky feel may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with pronounced tactile feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a sharp, snappy feel, the Olive tactile switch with its accented, invigorating, and sharp characteristics might be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
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