Bsun Akashi vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the BSUN Akashi linear switch to the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, there are distinct differences in their design and performance. The Akashi is praised for its smooth UPE stem and unique POM top with nylon bottom housing combination, creating a satisfying tactile feedback and a bright, crisp sound upon bottoming out. On the other hand, the Blue Jade is known for its clicky feedback without any specific standout features. While the Akashi offers a clacky and polished typing experience, the Blue Jade is more of a mystery in terms of its attributes. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and Outemu Blue Jade switches are both made from nylon, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. However, the Akashi also incorporates a POM top housing, which creates a uniquely muted sound profile that is on the deeper side. In contrast, the Blue Jade utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to absorb more sound and create a rounder, duller sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their nylon construction.
While the bottom housings of both the Akashi and Blue Jade switches are made from nylon, they play a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches. Nylon is a softer plastic compared to harder materials, absorbing more sound and creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic is evident in both switches, showcasing the impact that the bottom housing material can have on the overall typing experience. Whether it is the Akashi or Blue Jade, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a more enjoyable typing experience with its sound-absorbing properties.
In summary, the housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and Outemu Blue Jade switches contribute to their distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. While the Akashi includes a POM top housing for a unique sound profile, the Blue Jade sticks with nylon for both top and bottom housings, providing a deeper and fuller sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their nylon construction and sound-absorbing properties. Whether you prefer a muted sound with the Akashi or a rounder sound with the Blue Jade, both switches deliver in terms of sound quality and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch to the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Akashi switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Blue Jade switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This makes the Akashi switch more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch and longer typing sessions, while the Blue Jade switch is better suited for those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches highlight the importance of weight in choosing the right switch for individual preferences.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7mm, which falls on the shorter end of the spectrum compared to the 4mm travel distance of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch. This means that the Bsun Akashi offers a slightly quicker key press experience compared to the Blue Jade. Gamers who value faster response times may find the Akashi to be more preferable, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Blue Jade. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches boils down to personal preference regarding travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience one is looking for.
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 Outemu Blue Jade comes in at $3.10 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, producing a sharp and snappy noise with each key press. This sound is characterized as crisp, bright, and percussive, providing a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is not available, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Akashi offers a range of descriptors including creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press. These qualities contribute to a smooth and fluid typing experience, with minimal resistance and a responsive feel. The Blue Jade's feel characteristics are not provided, making it challenging to contrast the two switches in terms of tactile feedback and typing comfort.
In conclusion, while the Bsun Akashi linear switch is praised for its unique sound profile and smooth typing experience, the information available about the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is limited. As a newcomer exploring these switches, it's important to consider personal preferences in sound and feel when making a decision. If you enjoy a clacky sound and a creamy, easy-to-press feel, the Akashi may be the ideal choice for you. Ultimately, trying out different switches and experimenting with combinations of keyboards and keycaps will help you find the perfect fit for your typing preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a smooth and effortless typing experience with a creamy, polished, or frictionless feel, along with a clacky sound, the Akashi linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a clicky sound and a tactile feel, the Blue Jade clicky switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and desired level of feedback while typing.
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