Bsun Akashi vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Bsun Akashi stands out for its UPE stem for smooth tactile feedback, combined with a POM top and nylon bottom housing that creates a distinctive sound profile. These linear switches provide a bright, crisp bottom-out feel and a resonant experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch doesn't have a standout feature like the Akashi but is known for its clicky feedback. The Dustproof Purple switch does not have any additional information provided. While the Akashi is described as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Polished', 'Silky', 'Snappy', 'Easy-to-press', the Dustproof Purple doesn't have any specific categorizations. 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
55g
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
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Outemu Dustproof Purple, we can see that they both utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Akashi features a POM top housing, known for creating a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Dustproof Purple uses a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound. However, both switches utilize a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. This difference in top housing material leads to a noticeable variance in sound characteristics between the two switches.
Despite the differences in top housing material, both the Akashi and Dustproof Purple switches share the benefit of using a nylon bottom housing. This classic switch housing material enhances the sound profile by creating a deeper and fuller tone due to its softer plastic composition. While the top housing material may influence the overall sound when pressing down on a key, the characteristics of the nylon bottom housing play a significant role in shaping the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Therefore, despite the varying top housing materials, users can expect a similar sound experience when typing on both switches due to the shared nylon bottom housing.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for mechanical switches such as the Bsun Akashi and Outemu Dustproof Purple significantly impacts the sound profile and overall typing experience. The use of POM in the Akashi's top housing produces a unique and pleasing sound, while the polycarbonate top housing in the Dustproof Purple creates a sharper and higher-pitched tone. Both switches benefit from using a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Understanding the influence of housing materials on sound characteristics can help users choose the switch that best suits their preferences for typing sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, it is clear that the Akashi is lighter while the Dustproof Purple is heavier. The Akashi has a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Dustproof Purple has a medium-heavy actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their force requirements. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions may lean towards the Akashi, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may opt for the Dustproof Purple. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches cater to varied preferences for typing and gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Dustproof Purple switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Akashi switch. The difference may not seem significant, but for some users, even a small variance in travel distance can impact the typing or gaming experience. Those who prefer a shorter travel distance may opt for the Akashi switch for faster response times, while those who enjoy a deeper keypress sensation may lean towards the Dustproof Purple switch. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics based on their travel distance, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
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 Dustproof Purple 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 and percussive sound profile, creating a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound is achieved through the unique combination of the UPE stem and hybrid POM top and nylon bottom housing. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch's sound characteristics are unknown, so it is difficult to compare it to the distinctive sound profile of the Akashi.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Akashi linear switch offers a range of descriptors such as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press. These descriptors highlight the smooth and refined typing experience that the Akashi switch provides, with minimal resistance and effortless key travel. On the contrary, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch is not described, making it challenging to compare the tactile feedback and typing experience it offers to that of the Akashi.
Overall, based on the available information, the Bsun Akashi linear switch stands out for its unique sound profile and smooth typing experience. It provides a resonant and tactile feedback with each keystroke, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the characteristics of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch remain unknown, making it challenging to directly compare it to the subjective qualities of the Akashi switch. If the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch offers similar characteristics to the Akashi, then users can expect a similarly enjoyable typing experience in terms of both sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light and smooth typing experience with a unique sound profile, the Akashi switch with its creamy, frictionless, and polished feel might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a clicky sound and a tactile feedback experience, the Dustproof Purple switch might be more suitable. Consider your typing habits, desired sound profile, and preferred bottom-out force when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and what feels best for your typing needs.
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