Bsun Akashi vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Akashi and the SP-Star Polaris Purple offer distinctive features to suit different preferences. The Bsun Akashi is a linear switch that stands out for its unique tactile feedback, thanks to a UPE stem for smoothness and a housing combo of POM top and nylon bottom. This combination results in a bright, crisp bottom-out sound paired with deep acoustic richness, providing a novel and resonant typing experience. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple is a tactile switch known for its significant tactile bump, offering an exhilarating typing experience with a snappy sound profile. While the Akashi is described as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Snappy', the Polaris Purple is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own advantages, but ultimately, 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
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Bsun Akashi and the SP-Star Polaris Purple both have distinct differences in their housing materials. The Akashi features a POM top housing which creates a deeper and relatively muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple utilizes a polycarbonate top housing which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This contrast in sound profiles can significantly affect the typing experience for users, as the Akashi may provide a more subtle and quieter typing experience compared to the Polaris Purple's more noticeable and crisp sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Akashi's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In comparison, the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a sharper and more resonant sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. The difference in sound profiles between the bottom housings of these two switches can cater to different preferences among users, with the Akashi offering a more muffled sound and the Polaris Purple delivering a clearer and crisper typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Bsun Akashi and the SP-Star Polaris Purple will come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. Both switches have unique qualities in their housing materials that can impact the overall feel and sound of typing. While the Akashi offers a more muted sound with its POM top housing and nylon bottom housing, the Polaris Purple provides a sharper and more resonant sound with its polycarbonate top and bottom housings. Users looking for a softer typing experience may prefer the Akashi, while those seeking a crisper and clearer sound profile may lean towards the Polaris Purple.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it is evident that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Akashi has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Polaris Purple, which has an unknown actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Akashi requires 43 grams, while the Polaris Purple has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. The Akashi provides a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the Polaris Purple offers a more substantial push feel for those who prefer a heavier typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference - whether one prefers a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7mm, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In terms of travel distance, the Akashi is slightly shorter than the Polaris Purple. The Akashi's 3.7mm travel distance provides a faster response time, making it a popular choice among gamers who value quick inputs. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple's 4mm travel distance offers a more substantial keypress depth, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, catering to different preferences based on individual typing styles and needs. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches depends on whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or a more tactile typing feel.
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 SP-Star Polaris Purple has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Purple for $5.00.
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 is known for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy tone with each key press. The SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, on the other hand, offers a neutral sound profile that is moderate in volume and actuation force requirement. Depending on the keyboard and keycaps used, the Akashi may produce a brighter and more percussive sound compared to the Polaris Purple.
Moving on to feel, the BSUN Akashi linear switch is praised for its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press qualities, providing a smooth and responsive typing experience. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch offers a more mild and polished feel, catering to those looking for a gentler typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches aim to offer a comfortable and effortless typing feel, with the Akashi focusing on responsiveness and the Polaris Purple offering a more approachable experience.
In conclusion, the BSUN Akashi linear switch stands out for its unique sound contrast and a variety of smooth and responsive feel options, making it a versatile choice for those looking for a tactile typing experience with a range of qualities. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch offers a tactile typing experience with a mild and polished feel, providing a more gentle and consistent typing experience. Depending on individual preferences and typing styles, both switches offer distinctive qualities that cater to a wide range of users seeking different sound and feel characteristics in their mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you are looking for a smooth and resonant keystroke with a light bottom out force, the Akashi may be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a more tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a snappy sound profile, the Polaris Purple could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how you want your keyboard to feel and sound while typing, so choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences.
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