Bsun Akashi vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch to the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, it's important to note their distinct characteristics. The Akashi is celebrated for its smooth UPE stem and unique housing combination, which results in a bright and crisp sound with each press. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze doesn't have any standout features mentioned, making it a more straightforward switch. If you prefer a smoother 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
40g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
Nylon
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 Spring Breeze switches have similarities in terms of using nylon for both top and bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Both switches offer a pleasing typing experience with a unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper and more muted side, making them popular choices for those who enjoy a quieter typing experience.
However, the Bsun Akashi stands out with its POM top housing, which creates a different sound profile compared to the nylon top housing of the Outemu Spring Breeze. POM housings are known for their unique sound that is relatively more muted, yet still incredibly pleasing. The contrast between the POM top housing of the Akashi and the nylon top housing of the Spring Breeze may result in slightly different typing experiences, with the Akashi offering a sound that is slightly more muted compared to the deeper and fuller sound of the Spring Breeze's nylon top housing.
In terms of feel, the qualities of the housing materials will be more prominent in either the top or bottom housing of the switch. The bottom housing plays a bigger role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing has more impact on the sound when a key is released. This distinction means that while both the Akashi and the Spring Breeze may offer similar sound profiles for typing, the feel of each switch may vary depending on the specific housing material used for the top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, it is clear that there are significant differences in actuation force and bottom out force. The Akashi has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it a lighter option overall. In contrast, the Spring Breeze switch has a higher actuation force of 40 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience. The Akashi provides a softer touch for those who prefer a lighter feel, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the Spring Breeze offers a more tactile and robust typing experience. 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, making it shorter than the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Akashi offers a slightly faster response time compared to the Spring Breeze, which may be preferred by gamers looking for quick actions. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance to feel a bit abrupt, while others may appreciate the snappiness of the Akashi. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Spring Breeze 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 best described as clacky, providing a sharp and snappy sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, there is no specific sound description available for the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch. The sound produced by a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Akashi switch offers a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press typing experience, creating a smooth and effortless sensation with each key press. Meanwhile, there is no specific feel description provided for the Outemu Spring Breeze switch. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Overall, the Bsun Akashi linear switch stands out for its distinctive tactile feedback and novel acoustic experience, making it a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch lacks specific descriptions for sound and feel, which may make it harder for newcomers to gauge its performance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a switch with a known sound and feel profile like the Akashi, or if you are willing to explore the potential qualities of the Spring Breeze switch for a different typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, consider your preference for a light bottom out force of 43 grams with a unique tactile feedback and resonant experience for the Akashi. If you value a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams and are looking for a clicky switch with a specific sound profile and feel, the Spring Breeze may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision will depend on your individual typing style, sound preferences, and overall typing experience you are looking for. Happy typing!