Bsun Akashi vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Akashi and the KTT Purple Star mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Akashi is celebrated for its smooth UPE stem and hybrid housing that create a distinct sound contrast, providing a novel and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Star stands out for its all-POM construction, offering a buttery smooth feel and a light 45g bottom-out that is perfect for light typists seeking ease and comfort. While the Akashi is praised for its clacky and snappy feel, the Purple Star is known for its mild and low-pitched typing experience. Both switches are easy to press, but the Akashi leans towards a creamy and polished sensation, while the Purple Star offers a frictionless and silky touch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Akashi and KTT Purple Star both utilize POM for their top housings, which creates a pleasing and unique sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted. This commonality suggests that users can expect a similar auditory experience when typing on either switch. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Akashi features a nylon material while the Purple Star incorporates POM. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, POM bottom housings may offer a different typing experience with a sound profile that aligns more closely with its top housing.
Despite sharing a POM top housing, the Bsun Akashi and KTT Purple Star diverge in their choice of bottom housing material. While the Akashi opts for nylon, the Purple Star sticks with POM for both top and bottom. This decision impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches, as the bottom housing material has a more pronounced effect on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. As a result, users may notice variations in the typing experience between the two switches, with potentially different levels of sound and tactile feedback. However, both switches are likely to offer a satisfying typing experience, albeit with subtle differences in sound profile and feel.
In terms of construction, the Bsun Akashi and KTT Purple Star showcase how different housing materials can influence the overall typing experience. The use of POM for the top housing in both switches ensures a consistent sound profile that is deep and muted. However, the choice of nylon for the Akashi's bottom housing versus POM for the Purple Star's bottom housing introduces a unique element to each switch. The softer nature of nylon may contribute to a fuller sound profile, while POM may offer a more uniform typing experience throughout. Ultimately, users may prefer one switch over the other based on their preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, we see that both switches are relatively light in terms of force required for typing. The Akashi has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Purple Star has a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches provide a smooth typing experience, with the Akashi being lighter overall. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing periods, the Akashi may be the better choice. However, for individuals who prefer a bit more resistance for a more substantial typing feel, the Purple Star may be more suitable. In either case, both switches offer a tactile feedback that can enhance the typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Akashi linear switch is 3.7 mm, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard. Gamers may prefer the Akashi switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times during intense gameplay. On the other hand, the Purple Star switch provides a slightly deeper key press, which some users may find more comfortable for typing or longer gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and how it impacts individual typing or gaming experiences.
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 Purple Star comes in at $4.88 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 is known for its clacky sound, providing a sharp and snappy tone that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch offers a low-pitched sound signature, which is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Akashi delivering a more vibrant and bright sound, while the Purple Star offers a smoother and more subdued tone.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Bsun Akashi linear switch is described as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press. These descriptors point towards a smooth and effortless typing experience, with minimal resistance and a sleek key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch is described as mild and easy-to-press, offering a gentle typing experience with minimal force required to activate the keys. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Akashi focusing more on a refined and polished feel, while the Purple Star offers a gentle and approachable typing sensation.
Overall, the Bsun Akashi and KTT Purple Star linear switches offer unique characteristics in both sound and feel. The Akashi provides a more vibrant and resonant sound with a smooth and buttery typing experience, while the Purple Star offers a neutral sound signature and a gentle typing feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing sensation, users can choose between the clacky and creamy experience of the Akashi or the low-pitched and mild feel of the Purple Star. It's important to consider all aspects of the switches, including sound, feel, and any other preferences, to determine the best fit for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when selecting between the Bsun Akashi and KTT Purple Star linear switches, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a unique tactile feedback experience with a bright and crisp sound, as well as a smooth and creamy typing feel, the Bsun Akashi linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature and easy-to-press keys, the KTT Purple Star linear switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Both switches offer a light bottom-out force, but the Akashi delivers a clacky sound and a polished, frictionless feel, while the Purple Star provides a low-pitched sound and a mild, easy-to-press sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your specific preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your personal preferences and typing style.
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