Bsun Akashi vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch offer distinct experiences for typists and gamers alike. The Akashi boasts a unique tactile feedback with its UPE stem and hybrid POM top and nylon bottom housing, providing a smooth yet resonant keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Milk Blue switch, being a clicky switch, offers a traditional tactile and audible click with each press. While the Akashi is deemed 'clacky', 'creamy', 'snappy', and 'easy-to-press', the Milk Blue switch lacks specific categorizations. It's clear that each switch has its own set of advantages and appeal. 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
N/A
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
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
The Bsun Akashi and the Outemu Milk Blue both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Akashi utilizes a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound compared to the Milk Blue's polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound. The use of POM in the Akashi results in a more pleasing and unique sound, while the polycarbonate in the Milk Blue offers a higher-pitched and clearer sound. Both switches showcase distinct characteristics in their top housing that cater to different preferences in sound profiles.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Akashi and the Milk Blue employ nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its softer composition, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. This material choice allows for a more satisfying typing experience, eliciting a deeper sound that is favored by many enthusiasts. Despite their different top housings, the switches share a commonality in using nylon for the bottom housing, showcasing a similar approach to creating a more immersive sound profile for users.
The split between the top and bottom housing materials in a switch can significantly impact the overall typing experience. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, the top housing plays a key role in the sound when releasing the key. The use of different materials in each housing allows for a nuanced sound profile that caters to various preferences. Whether it's the POM top housing of the Akashi or the polycarbonate top housing of the Milk Blue, the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch reveals that the Akashi is lighter with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Milk Blue is heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams. The bottom out force for the Milk Blue is unknown. Lighter switches like the Akashi are preferred by those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as they require less force to actuate. On the other hand, heavier switches like the Milk Blue provide a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Akashi linear switch is 3.7mm, while the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4mm. The Akashi offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Milk Blue clicky switch, which may provide a faster response time for gamers looking for quick key presses. On the other hand, the Milk Blue clicky switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more tactile and satisfying keystroke experience for those who prefer a deeper press. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Milk Blue being on the longer end and the Akashi being slightly shorter. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing 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 Outemu Milk Blue 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
In terms of sound, the BSUN Akashi linear switch is known for its clacky and sharp sound, providing a bright and crisp bottom-out experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch does not have a known sound descriptor provided. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Akashi switch offers a creamy and frictionless typing experience, providing a smooth and buttery sensation with minimal resistance when pressing the keys. This is further enhanced by the polished finish of the switch, resulting in a sleek and refined typing feel. In contrast, there is no specific description available for the feel of the Milk Blue clicky switch.
Overall, the BSUN Akashi linear switch stands out for its unique tactile feedback and distinctive sound profile, offering a resonant and satisfying typing experience with each keystroke. While the information provided for the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is limited, based on the available details, it is clear that the Akashi switch provides a more comprehensive and described experience in terms of sound and feel. However, without specific information on the Milk Blue switch, it is difficult to make a direct comparison. In general, when comparing switches with similar qualities, one can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a smooth and resonant typing experience with a light actuation force, opt for the Akashi linear switch. The Akashi's creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press feel, paired with its clacky sound, offers a unique and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a distinctive sound profile and tactile feedback, the Milk Blue may be the better choice. Unfortunately, the information provided does not give specific details about the Milk Blue switch's feel and sound characteristics. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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