Bsun Akashi vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Bsun Akashi and the KTT Pine linear switches, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Akashi stands out for its UPE stem and hybrid housing combo, providing a distinctive sound contrast with a bright, crisp bottom-out and deep acoustic richness. On the other hand, the Pine is noted for its medium-heavy feel, buttery smoothness, and factory-lubed finish that minimizes friction for an effortless typing experience. While the Akashi is described as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Snappy', the Pine is labeled as 'Bassy', 'Buttery', and 'Creamy'. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the KTT Pine, one key difference lies in their top housings. The Akashi's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to the Pine's polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucency of the Pine's polycarbonate top housing makes it ideal for RGB lighting, adding a unique aesthetic element to the switch. In contrast, the Akashi's POM top housing focuses more on creating a pleasing and unique sound experience for the user.
Moving on to the bottom housings of the two switches, another point of contrast emerges. The Akashi's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder tone. On the other hand, the Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, enhancing the overall clarity and resonance of the switch's sound. This difference in bottom housing material underscores the impact that housing material can have on the overall typing experience.
While the housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the KTT Pine offer distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences, it is worth noting that both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing. This similarity suggests that users can expect similar results in terms of the sharper, higher-pitched sound produced by the polycarbonate material. However, the contrasting bottom housings of nylon and polycarbonate in the Akashi and Pine switches, respectively, introduce unique characteristics that differentiate the two switches in terms of sound profile and typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, the actuation force of the Akashi is lighter at 37 grams compared to the Pine's 45 grams, making the Akashi more sensitive to touch. In terms of bottom out force, the Akashi requires 43 grams to fully press the key, while the Pine needs 58 grams, indicating that the Pine switch provides a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Akashi switch, while those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress may opt for the Pine switch. In both cases, users can expect precise and responsive keystrokes based on the force required for actuation and bottom out.
Travel distance
The Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the KTT Pine linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Pine linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Akashi switch. The 0.3 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can make a difference in the typing or gaming experience for some users. In general, shorter travel distances are favored by gamers for faster response times, while longer travel distances provide a more satisfying keypress for some users. Each switch offers a unique feel based on their travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two.
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 KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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 offers a clacky and bright bottom-out experience, providing a sharp and crisp sound with each key press. In contrast, the KTT Pine linear switch produces a bassy and low-pitched sound, offering a deeper and richer tone during key presses. Whether you prefer the bright and percussive sound of the Akashi or the mellow and bass-heavy sound of the Pine, both switches offer unique and distinct auditory experiences that can enhance your typing sessions based on your personal preferences and setup.
In terms of feel, the Akashi linear switch is known for its creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience. With lubricant applied at the factory and a smooth UPE stem design, the Akashi switch offers a silky sensation and effortless key travel, making typing feel like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch is described as buttery and creamy, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and uniform. Both switches prioritize a comfortable typing feel, making them suitable for users seeking a typing experience that minimizes resistance and enhances overall smoothness.
In conclusion, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Akashi provides a clacky and bright sound with a creamy and frictionless feel, while the Pine offers a bassy and low-pitched sound complemented by a buttery and creamy typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a sharper, brighter sound with smoothness or a deeper, richer sound profile with effortless typing, both switches cater to different preferences and can deliver satisfying results for users looking for a unique typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel, as well as other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you value a light bottom out force, a clacky sound with a creamy and frictionless feel, then the Akashi switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a bassy sound with a buttery and creamy feel, then the Pine switch could be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to choose based on your personal typing preferences and needs.
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