Bsun Akashi vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Akashi and Gateron Quinn offer unique experiences for users to consider. The Akashi, a linear switch, stands out for its smooth UPE stem and distinctive housing combination of POM top and nylon bottom, creating a bright and crisp sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Quinn, a tactile switch, provides a deep and resonant sound profile with specially designed nylon housings for a crisp and light tactile bump. While the Akashi is known for its creamy and easy-to-press feel, the Quinn offers a buttery and bouncy typing experience. 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
59g
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
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and Gateron Quinn switches both utilize nylon for the bottom housing. This means that both switches will offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of the nylon material, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The result is a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon for the bottom housing. However, the top housing materials differ, with the Akashi using POM and the Quinn using nylon. The POM top housing of the Akashi creates a unique and pleasing sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted compared to the fuller sound produced by nylon.
In terms of design, the different housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and Gateron Quinn switches affect the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches. While both switches offer a similar deep and full sound due to their nylon bottom housing, the Akashi with its POM top housing provides a more unique and muted sound profile compared to the nylon top housing of the Quinn. This difference in top housing material contributes to the overall typing experience, with the top housing impacting the sound when letting go of a key, while the bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key. Overall, the combination of nylon and POM or nylon and nylon in the housing materials of these switches results in distinct auditory and tactile experiences for users.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Bsun Akashi and Gateron Quinn switches, both offer a satisfying typing experience with their deep and full sound profiles. The unique sound created by the POM top housing of the Akashi and the nylon top housing of the Quinn provides users with options to choose a switch based on their preferred sound and feel. However, the use of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches ensures a consistent deep and fuller sound profile, making them both suitable choices for those who enjoy a more muted and round sound when typing. Ultimately, the housing materials of these switches play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience and can cater to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it is evident that the Akashi is lighter in both aspects. The Akashi has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Quinn has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. The Akashi provides a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer to type for extended periods without fatigue. In contrast, the Quinn offers a heavier typing feel, which may be preferred by users looking for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, we find that the Akashi has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Quinn has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for quicker response times. The Akashi's slightly longer travel distance may provide a bit more depth to the key press, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the Quinn's shorter travel distance can offer a faster and more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key feel and response time.
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 Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 best described as clacky, offering a sharp and percussive sound profile. In contrast, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch produces a deep, resonant bassy sound that adds richness to the typing experience. Both switches provide unique auditory feedback, with the Akashi being brighter and crisper, while the Quinn offers a warmer, fuller tone. Ultimately, the sound preference between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the overall build of the keyboard setup.
In terms of feel, the Akashi switch is known for its creamy and frictionless typing experience, providing a smooth and buttery sensation with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Quinn switch offers a snappy and polished feel, with smooth and refined key travel. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through their unique tactile feedback, whether it be a silky gliding sensation or a lively rebound upon key press. Choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences for typing comfort and responsiveness.
Overall, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch both offer distinct qualities in sound and feel. The Akashi provides a clacky sound and a creamy typing experience, while the Quinn offers a bassy sound and a snappy feel. Both switches aim to provide a unique and immersive typing experience, with each catering to different preferences for sound and feel. Ultimately, whether you choose the Akashi or the Quinn switch will come down to your personal preference for sound profile and tactile feedback in your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the BSUN Akashi linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, consider your personal preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a light and smooth keystroke with a bright, clacky sound, the Akashi linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile bump with a deep, resonant, and bassy sound profile, the Quinn tactile switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a creamy, frictionless feel or a snappy, polished typing sensation. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to elevate your overall typing experience.
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