Bsun Akashi vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch to the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it's clear that each one offers a unique typing experience. The Bsun Akashi is known for its smooth UPE stem and distinctive housing combo, providing a bright, crisp bottom-out sound with deep acoustic richness. This switch falls under categories such as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Snappy', making it a choice for those who enjoy a polished and easy-to-press typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple switch doesn't have any specific standout features mentioned, suggesting a more standard tactile typing experience. 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
2.00 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
The housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Outemu Purple switches have notable differences in terms of the sound profile they produce. The Akashi's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound, while the Purple's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of POM in the Akashi results in a more subdued typing experience, while the polycarbonate in the Purple switch provides a more pronounced and resonant sound. Despite their differences, both materials offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Akashi and the Purple switches utilize nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches contributes to a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. Although the top housing materials may differ between the two switches, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a similar sound profile that emphasizes depth and richness in sound.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the Bsun Akashi and the Outemu Purple switches results in a nuanced and diverse typing experience. While the POM top housing of the Akashi and the polycarbonate top housing of the Purple offer contrasting sound profiles, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a consistent depth and richness in sound. Whether you prefer a more muted and subdued typing experience with the Akashi or a sharper and crisper sound with the Purple, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to individual preferences. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches offer distinctive sound profiles that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Akashi has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Purple's 50 grams, making the Akashi more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming. Additionally, the Akashi has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 43 grams, while the bottom out force of the Purple is unknown. The Akashi provides a consistent typing experience with a light touch, whereas the Purple may offer a more substantial and tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Outemu Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Akashi offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Purple switch. Generally, a shorter travel distance is favored by gamers for quicker response times, while a longer travel distance provides a deeper and more satisfying key press for some users. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Akashi being slightly shorter than the Purple. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in regards to the feel and responsiveness of the key press.
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 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
In terms of sound, the BSUN Akashi linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This results in a crisp, bright, and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple tactile switch's sound profile is unknown, so it is hard to directly compare the two in this aspect. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Akashi linear switch is described as offering a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press typing experience. These qualities contribute to a smooth and buttery feel with minimal resistance, making each keystroke feel effortless and responsive. On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Purple tactile switch is unknown, so it is challenging to make a direct comparison in this regard. It is important to consider that the feel of a switch is a crucial aspect that greatly influences the overall typing experience.
Overall, while the sound profile of the BSUN Akashi linear switch is described as clacky, offering a bright and percussive sound with each keystroke, the sound profile of the Outemu Purple tactile switch remains unknown. In terms of feel, the Akashi switch provides a smooth, easy-to-press experience due to its creamy, silky, and polished qualities, along with minimal friction and snappy responsiveness. However, the feel of the Outemu Purple switch is unspecified, making it challenging to directly compare the two switches. Ultimately, when selecting between the Akashi linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it is essential to consider personal preferences in sound and feel to choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and priorities. If you value a smooth and resonant typing experience with a light actuation force, the Akashi may be the ideal choice for you. The Akashi's unique UPE stem design and hybrid housing provide a creamy and frictionless typing feel, perfect for those seeking a polished and easy-to-press switch. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile feedback and are looking for a more traditional typing experience, the Purple switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
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