Bsun Akashi vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch to the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it becomes evident that they both offer unique and distinct typing experiences. The Akashi is praised for its smooth UPE stem and hybrid housing design, resulting in a bright and crisp sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Plum is known for its hefty feel without a substantial tactile bump, providing a neutral and enjoyable typing experience. While the Akashi is categorized as clacky, creamy, and easy-to-press, the Plum is labeled as neutral, mild, and stepped. Each switch presents its own set of advantages, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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 housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Kailh Plum switches differ in terms of sound profiles and materials used. The Akashi features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to the Plum's polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the clear polycarbonate top housing of the Plum is beneficial for RGB lighting effects, while the opaque POM top housing of the Akashi provides a unique sound experience. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer and sound-absorbing properties.
The use of different housing materials in the top and bottom parts of the switches affects the overall sound and feel of typing on each switch. The bottom housing, made of nylon in both the Akashi and Plum switches, influences the bottom-out sound and feel, creating a duller and rounder sound due to its softer nature. On the other hand, the top housing material plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. The POM top housing of the Akashi and the polycarbonate top housing of the Plum offer distinct sound profiles, with the POM creating a more muted sound while the polycarbonate produces a sharper and crisper sound.
While the Bsun Akashi and the Kailh Plum switches feature different top housing materials, they both share a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The Akashi's POM top housing creates a unique and pleasing sound, while the Plum's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound. The choice of housing materials in each switch influences the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing affecting the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the housing materials of these switches provide a variety of sound profiles for keyboard enthusiasts to choose from based on their preferences.
Weight
The Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch present a contrast in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Akashi features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, providing a softer typing experience. In comparison, the Plum switch lacks a specified actuation force but has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, delivering a more substantial and tactile keystroke feel. Those seeking a more extended typing experience may prefer the Akashi due to its lighter actuation force, while users desiring a more forceful push may opt for the Plum switch with its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for quicker response times. Choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference - if you prefer a slightly deeper press, the Akashi switch may be more appealing, whereas if you prioritize a quicker, more responsive feel, the Plum switch might be a better fit. In terms of differences, the Akashi has a marginally longer travel distance, making it the slightly longer of the two. Overall, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to more traditional options, providing a modern and efficient 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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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 known for its clacky and sharp sound profile, providing a crisp and bright bottom-out sound that resonates with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile that is enjoyable and suitable for various typing environments. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics, with the Akashi being more on the lively side and the Plum leaning towards a balanced sound output.
Regarding feel, the Akashi linear switch provides a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press typing experience, offering smooth and effortless key presses with reduced friction and a refined finish. In contrast, the Kailh Plum tactile switch delivers a mild and stepped tactile sensation, providing a gentle typing experience with slight pre-travel or post-travel stages. While the Akashi emphasizes smoothness and responsiveness, the Plum focuses on a comfortable and approachable typing feel with a mild tactile bump.
In conclusion, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Akashi excels in providing a lively and resonant sound with smooth and effortless key presses, while the Plum delivers a neutral and balanced sound profile with a gentle and approachable typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Akashi showcasing a more vibrant and tactile feedback, while the Plum offers a mild and comfortable typing feel. Depending on your personal preference for sound and typing experience, you can achieve satisfying results with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Bsun Akashi linear switch or the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it is important to take into account your preferences and needs. If you are looking for a unique tactile feedback experience with a light bottom out force and a resonant sound profile, the Akashi may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a neutral sound profile, and a tactile switch that offers a more gentle typing experience, then the Plum switch could be the better choice. Ultimately, both switches have their own distinct characteristics and it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
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