Bsun Akashi vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch to the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it's clear that each offers a unique typing experience. The Akashi is praised for its smoothness and distinctive housing combo, providing a resonant and crisp bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the Phoenix stands out with its under-skirt click mechanism, offering a crystalline and sparkling typing experience. While the Akashi is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Snappy', the Phoenix is described as 'Crunchy' and 'Polished'. If you prefer a smoother and more resonant keystroke, the Akashi may be the better choice for you. However, if you enjoy a unique clicky feel and sound profile, the Phoenix could be the perfect fit. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Outemu Phoenix, it is evident that the Akashi utilizes a POM top housing while the Phoenix features a polycarbonate top housing. POM housings create a deeper and more muted sound profile, whereas polycarbonate housings produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This contrast in sound characteristics can greatly influence the typing experience for users. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate in the Phoenix allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, we see that the Akashi employs a nylon bottom housing, while the Phoenix uses a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon bottom housings offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the material, absorbing more sound and resulting in a rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Phoenix contributes to a sharper, crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer properties. This difference in sound output showcases the impact that the bottom housing material can have on the overall typing experience.
Overall, while the Akashi and Phoenix switches differ in their housing materials, both switches aim to provide a unique sound profile for users. The Akashi's combination of POM and nylon creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Phoenix's polycarbonate construction produces a sharper and crisper sound. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches ultimately prioritize delivering a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound characteristics. Whether users prefer a softer, more muted sound or a sharper, crisper sound, both options cater to varying preferences in sound profiles.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it is clear that the Akashi is lighter in both aspects. The Akashi has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Phoenix has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that the Akashi will require a lighter touch to register a keypress and bottom out, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Phoenix offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - those who enjoy a lighter touch may opt for the Akashi, while those who prefer a stronger push feel may prefer the Phoenix for a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Akashi linear switch is 3.7mm, while the travel distance of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is 3.3mm. In this case, the Akashi has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Phoenix. The Akashi's 3.7mm travel distance falls within the range of the more traditional 4.0mm travel distance, while the Phoenix's 3.3mm travel distance is on the shorter side. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Phoenix with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a deeper press may opt for the Akashi with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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 offers a bright, crisp bottom-out sound with a resonant experience, described as clacky. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch produces a sparkling and crisp sound that is compared to stepping on piles of crunchy autumn leaves, described as crunchy. The Akashi provides a unique acoustic richness with each keystroke, while the Phoenix offers a more unique click sound with its under-skirt click mechanism. The choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a clacky or crunchy sound profile in your keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Akashi switch offers a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience that feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. This is achieved through a UPE stem combined with a POM top and nylon bottom housing for smoothness. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix switch provides a polished feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches aim to deliver a smooth typing experience, but the Akashi offers additional features like snappy responsiveness and easy-to-press keys.
In conclusion, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Akashi provides a clacky sound profile with creamy and silky typing feel, while the Phoenix offers a crunchy sound profile and a polished typing experience. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the unique sound contrast and resonant experience of the Akashi or the under-skirt click mechanism and sparkling feel of the Phoenix. Ultimately, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience with their distinct characteristics, and users can expect satisfying results from either option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you value a smooth and resonant sound with a light actuation force, the Akashi may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique clicky switch with a medium actuation force and a crystalline sound profile, the Phoenix could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what typing sensations you prioritize in your mechanical keyboard switches. Choose wisely and enjoy the satisfying typing experience that best suits your needs.
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