Bsun Akashi vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Bsun Akashi, and the SP-Star RedBlue, both linear switches with unique characteristics. The Akashi stands out with its UPE stem for smoothness, POM top, and nylon bottom housing combination, offering a bright and crisp bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the RedBlue switches are known for their medium-light typing experience and low-pitched sound profile. While the Akashi is described as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Snappy', the RedBlue is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Thocky'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeals to different preferences in 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
57g
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 housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the SP-Star RedBlue switches offer a striking contrast in sound profiles. While the Akashi features a POM top housing that creates a deep and muted sound, the RedBlue utilizes a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound. This distinction demonstrates how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall auditory experience of typing on a keyboard. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the RedBlue switch allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Akashi employs a nylon material that produces a deeper and fuller sound, contrasting with the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. The differences in these materials highlight the varying properties of plastics and their effects on sound production. It is interesting to note how the softer nylon in the Akashi absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller tone, while the stiffer polycarbonate in the RedBlue leads to a more resonant and clear sound.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Bsun Akashi and the SP-Star RedBlue switches, they both showcase the importance of top and bottom housing in determining the overall sound profile of a keyboard switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. By understanding how each material contributes to the typing experience, keyboard enthusiasts can make informed decisions when selecting switches for their keyboards based on the desired sound and feel.
Weight
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. When it comes to bottom out force, the Akashi requires 43 grams to fully depress the key, while the RedBlue switch needs 57 grams, making it heavier in comparison. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may gravitate towards the Akashi switch, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. In contrast, the RedBlue switch offers a more substantial push feel, which can be preferred by those looking for a bit more resistance in their keystrokes. Both switches provide unique typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Akashi switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the RedBlue switch. Typically, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more substantial and satisfying tactile feedback. Both switches fall within the range of popular travel distances, with the RedBlue switch being more traditional in this aspect. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference regarding the travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 and percussive sound, providing a bright and crisp bottom-out with a deep acoustic richness due to its unique stem and housing design. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, giving off a mellow and bass-heavy tone. The RedBlue switch also provides a thocky sound, with a deep, rich, and satisfying tone when pressed and released. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, catering to different preferences based on sound profile.
Moving on to the feel, the Bsun Akashi linear switch is described as having a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press typing feel. These characteristics point towards a smooth and effortless typing experience with responsive feedback. In comparison, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is characterized by a mild and polished feel, offering a gentle and refined typing experience. Both switches prioritize comfort and smoothness in typing, with the Akashi focusing more on responsiveness and the RedBlue on a middle-ground approachable feel.
Overall, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Akashi provides a clacky sound and a creamy, polished, and snappy feel, the RedBlue offers a low-pitched sound and a mild, polished typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a brighter, more responsive typing experience with rich sound or a mellow, bass-heavy tone with a gentle feel, these switches provide distinct options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Thus, when deciding between the BSUN Akashi linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, you should consider the characteristics of each switch. If you prefer a light bottom out force and a unique, resonant typing experience with a creamy, frictionless, polished, or silky feel, as well as a clacky sound profile, then the Akashi switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you lean towards a medium-light bottom out force and a low-pitched, neutral, thocky sound profile with a mild and polished feel, then the RedBlue switch would better suit your preferences. Both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so selecting the one that aligns with your desired typing experience is key in making the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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