Bsun Akashi vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Akashi stands out for its smooth UPE stem, POM top, and nylon bottom housing combination, creating a distinct sound profile with each keystroke. Described as 'clacky', 'creamy', and 'silky', these linear switches provide a resonant typing experience that is easy on the fingers. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey switches prioritize a quiet and highly tactile typing experience, featuring a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke. With a focus on being satisfying and silent, these switches are perfect for those who value a quieter environment while typing. Each switch has its strengths and appeals to different users based on their preferences. 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
1.60 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
The Bsun Akashi and the Outemu Silent Grey both use different materials for their top and bottom housing, with the Akashi utilizing POM for the top and nylon for the bottom, while the Silent Grey features polycarbonate for the top and nylon for the bottom. The POM top housing of the Akashi creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Grey produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. On the other hand, both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Silent Grey is more likely to be transparent, making it suitable for switches with RGB lighting as the translucency enhances the overall look. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Bsun Akashi may not offer the same visual appeal but provides a unique and pleasing sound experience. However, both switches benefit from the nylon bottom housing, which helps in creating a rounder and duller sound profile that adds to the typing experience. Despite their differences in top housing material, both switches possess qualities that contribute to a satisfying typing experience.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the different housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Outemu Silent Grey play a significant role in shaping the sound and feel of the switches. The impact of the bottom housing is more pronounced during the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, with nylon contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile in both cases. Conversely, the top housing material has a more noticeable effect on the sound produced when releasing a key, with POM creating a more subdued sound in the Akashi and polycarbonate offering a crisper and resonant sound in the Silent Grey. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Bsun Akashi linear switch 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 Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for users who prefer a heavier push. Those who choose the Akashi will find it easier to type for longer periods of time, whether at work or during gaming sessions, due to its lighter weight. On the other hand, the Silent Grey switch offers a more tactile and forceful typing experience, which may be preferred by those seeking a more pronounced keystroke feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Akashi offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance compared to the Silent Grey. Gamers who prioritize speed and responsiveness may prefer the Akashi for this reason. On the other hand, the Silent Grey provides a bit more depth and keypress feedback due to its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Silent Grey 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 Akashi linear switch is known for producing a clacky sound, which is sharp, crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch offers a quiet typing experience, with no specific sound descriptor provided. While the Akashi provides a unique and resonant auditory feedback, the Silent Grey focuses on offering a quiet typing experience, making it suitable for noise-sensitive environments.
When it comes to feel, the Akashi linear switch is described with various descriptors such as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press. These descriptors indicate a smooth, refined, and responsive typing experience with minimal resistance and effortless key presses. In contrast, there is no specific description available for the feel of the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch. However, based on its tactile nature and emphasis on a satisfying typing experience, it can be inferred that the Silent Grey switch offers a tactile feedback with a smooth keystroke and a pronounced bump.
Considering all the available information, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Akashi provides a clacky and resonant sound with a range of smooth and responsive feel options, catering to different typing preferences. On the other hand, the Silent Grey focuses on providing a quiet and tactile typing experience without specific sound or feel descriptors. Depending on the user's preference for sound, feel, and typing environment, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches would depend on the individual's specific preferences for sound, feel, and typing feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a light and smooth keystroke with a unique sound profile, the Akashi may be the better option for you. The UPE stem and hybrid housing of the Akashi provide a resonant experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a quiet and highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump, the Silent Grey switch would be a great choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing style. Experimenting with different switches can help you determine which one suits your typing needs best.
Mentioned in this article
