Bsun Akashi vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between linear and tactile switches can make a significant impact on typing experience. The BSUN Akashi offers a smooth and unique linear switch option with a UPE stem and a POM top, nylon bottom hybrid housing for a distinctive sound profile. Known for its clacky, creamy, and polished feel, the Akashi provides a resonant typing experience that is easy on the fingers. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) stands out for its maximum tactility, offering a punchy and satisfying tactile switch with sharp tactility and clean clack sound. Categorized as resonant, sharp, and invigorating, the POM T1 is a popular choice for those seeking tactile feedback. 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
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) both feature POM top housings that create a pleasing and unique sound profile with deeper tones and a relatively muted sound. However, the Akashi incorporates a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic material that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) utilizes a POM bottom housing, which also contributes to a pleasing sound profile with similar deep tones and muted sound qualities as the top housing.
While both switches offer a similar sound profile with their respective housing materials, the Bsun Akashi's combination of POM and nylon housings may provide a slightly different typing experience compared to the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), which features POM housing on both the top and bottom. The impact of the bottom housing material on the bottom-out sound and feel is more pronounced in the Akashi switch, given the characteristics of nylon as a softer and sound-absorbing material. Conversely, the top housing material in both switches plays a significant role in the sound produced when a key is released.
In summary, the Bsun Akashi and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) offer similar sound profiles with their POM top housings, but differ in the material used for the bottom housing. The combination of POM and nylon in the Akashi switch may provide a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the POM housing in both components of the POM T1 (Sunflower) ensures consistency in tones and sound qualities. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to individual preferences for the specific sound and feel produced by the different housing materials.
Weight
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch. The Akashi requires a mere 37 grams of force to actuate and 43 grams to bottom out, making it a great option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower) has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, although the actuation force is unknown. This difference in weight can cater to different preferences, as some may enjoy the light and effortless typing of the Akashi, while others may appreciate the more substantial feel of the POM T1. Ultimately, individuals looking for a lighter switch may prefer the Akashi, while those seeking a heavier switch may opt for the POM T1.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, which is shorter than the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. Though the Akashi is shorter, both fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for their quick response times. If you are looking for a more responsive feel, the Akashi may be the better choice due to its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial keypress with a bit more depth, the POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch would be the way to go with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a different typing experience, so it all comes down to personal preference.
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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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 Akashi linear switch is best characterized as clacky, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offers a resonant sound profile that is higher-pitched and clean, providing an immersive auditory experience. Both switches offer unique sound experiences, with the Akashi being more percussive and the POM T1 being more immersive and sharp. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference for sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Akashi linear switch offers a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience. These descriptors indicate a smooth and effortless typing experience with reduced friction and enhanced key travel. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch provides a sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating tactile feedback that is firm and reactive. The POM T1 offers a pronounced feedback with a moderate to firm actuation force, providing a tactile typing sensation. The decision between the two switches would depend on the preferred level of tactility and typing style.
Overall, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offer distinct experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Akashi provides a clacky sound and a creamy, smooth feel, while the POM T1 offers a resonant sound and a sharp, prominent tactile feedback. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Akashi focusing on a unique sound profile and smooth feel, and the POM T1 emphasizing tactile feedback and responsiveness. Depending on whether the user prioritizes sound, feel, or tactility, they can select the switch that best suits their typing preferences and style. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and a satisfying typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Bsun Akashi linear switch or the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, it's important to factor in your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a light and smooth keystroke with a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, or easy-to-press feel, the Akashi linear switch is ideal for you. On the other hand, if you desire a medium-heavy tactile switch with a sharp, accented, snappy, or invigorating feel, and enjoy a sharp and clacky sound profile, then the POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is the better choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing style and preference for sound and feel.
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