Bsun Akashi vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Akashi and the Outemu Red mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both fall under the linear switch category. The BSUN Akashi switches are renowned for their unique design featuring a UPE stem for smoothness and a combination of POM top and nylon bottom housing, creating a distinct sound profile with bright, crisp bottom-out and deep acoustic richness. On the other hand, the Outemu Red switches do not have a specific standout feature mentioned but are known for their linear feel. The Akashi switches are described as 'clacky', 'creamy', 'frictionless', 'polished', 'silky', 'snappy', and 'easy-to-press', while the Red switches do not have any specific categorizations listed. If you are looking for a switch that offers a novel and resonant typing experience, the Akashi may be the way to go. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 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
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 Red, we can see distinct differences in the sound profiles they produce. The Akashi's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Red's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. This contrast in sound profiles can significantly impact the typing experience for users, with the Akashi providing a more subdued typing experience and the Red offering a more crisp and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing in the Red allows for the use of RGB lighting, adding a visual element to the typing experience.
On the other hand, when looking at the bottom housings of both switches, we find that they both use nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. Despite having different top housings, the similar bottom housings in the Akashi and Red provide users with a consistent sound experience in terms of depth and fullness. The qualities of the nylon bottom housing are felt throughout the typing process, contributing to a comfortable and satisfying typing experience for users of both switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Bsun Akashi and Outemu Red switches plays a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience for users. While the Akashi's POM and nylon combination offers a more muted and deeper sound, the Red's polycarbonate and nylon pairing produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Users looking for a switch with a softer and fuller sound may prefer the Akashi, while those seeking a crisper and more resonant sound may opt for the Red. However, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a consistent depth and fullness in sound for both switches, providing a reliable typing experience for users regardless of their housing material preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, one significant difference is their actuation and bottom out forces. The Akashi has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Red switch has a heavier actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. Those who prefer a stronger push or a more tactile typing experience may gravitate towards the Red switch for its higher force requirements. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing sensation and the desired weight of the key presses.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Outemu Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Outemu Red switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Bsun Akashi switch. The 0.3 mm may not seem like a significant difference, but it can affect the overall feel and feedback of the switch. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the Bsun Akashi with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may opt for the Outemu Red with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference based on the experience one is looking for in their keyboard.
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 Red 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, which is sharp, snappy, crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Red linear switch is unknown. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Bsun Akashi linear switch is described using various descriptors such as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press. This indicates that the Akashi switch offers a smooth, buttery typing experience with reduced friction, effortless key travel, and easy activation due to minimal force required. Conversely, the feel of the Outemu Red linear switch is not provided in the information given.
In conclusion, the Bsun Akashi linear switch stands out for its unique tactile feedback and resonant experience with a blend of smoothness and distinctive acoustics. The Akashi switch offers a variety of subjective qualities that cater to different typing preferences, making it a versatile option for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Since the information on the Outemu Red linear switch's sound and feel is not available, it is difficult to directly compare the two switches in detail. However, based on the descriptions provided, it can be inferred that the Bsun Akashi linear switch offers a more varied and potentially smoother typing experience compared to the Outemu Red switch, which lacks specific details on its sound and feel characteristics. Ultimately, both switches may provide similar results depending on individual preferences and setup configurations.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, you should consider the differences in bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter actuation force, the Bsun Akashi with its 43-gram bottom out force may be more suitable for you. Additionally, if you are looking for a switch that offers a unique and resonant typing experience with a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press feel, the Akashi's UPE stem and hybrid housing design may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and are looking for a linear switch without specific characteristics mentioned in the provided descriptors, the Outemu Red switch may be a better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure a satisfying typing experience with either switch. Choose wisely based on what suits your needs and preferences best.
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