Bsun Akashi vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Bsun Akashi, a linear switch, and the Kailh Sage, a clicky switch. The Bsun Akashi is renowned for its unique tactile feedback, featuring a UPE stem for smoothness and a POM top with a nylon bottom housing combination that results in a bright, crisp bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switches offer a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavy weight and sharp clickiness. While the Akashi switch is characterized as 'clacky', 'creamy', and 'snappy', the Sage switch is described as 'invigorating', 'sharp', and 'crunchy'. Each switch provides a different typing sensation, catering to individual preferences. 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
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Kailh Sage both offer unique sound profiles due to their different compositions. The Akashi's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Sage's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. This contrast in sound profiles is further emphasized by the nylon bottom housings of both switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Akashi elicits a deeper and fuller sound, while the Sage's nylon bottom housing contributes to a duller and rounder sound. Overall, the combination of different housing materials in each switch results in distinct typing experiences.
Despite their differences in sound profiles, both the Bsun Akashi and the Kailh Sage share similarities in their use of nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a fuller sound profile, making it a classic choice for switch housings. This shared characteristic ensures that both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with a deeper and more resonant sound. However, the variation in top housing materials - POM for the Akashi and polycarbonate for the Sage - introduces unique qualities to each switch that contribute to their overall typing feel.
The impact of housing materials on the typing experience is evident in the Bsun Akashi and the Kailh Sage switches. The qualities brought by the top and bottom housing materials are split between the two components, influencing the sound profile and feel of typing on each switch. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material affects the sound produced when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings highlights the importance of housing materials in creating a well-rounded typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is clear that the Akashi is the lighter option. The Akashi has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it a light switch overall. On the other hand, the Sage has an actuation force of Unknown grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Akashi, while users seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the heavier Sage. Both switches offer unique typing experiences based on their actuation force and bottom out force, providing users with options to suit their preferences.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Kailh Sage clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Bsun Akashi has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Kailh Sage. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who value faster response times. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distances offered by both switches. However, individuals who prefer a more robust keypress experience may lean towards the Bsun Akashi with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25 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 and bright sound, providing a crisp and percussive bottom-out with acoustic richness from its unique design. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch offers a crunchy sound reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves, with a heavy weight and sharp clickiness contributing to a distinct typing experience. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, with the Akashi focusing on a resonant and bright sound, while the Sage provides a more tactile and crunchier feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Akashi switch is described with descriptors like creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press. These characteristics combine to create a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance and enhanced responsiveness. In contrast, the Kailh Sage switch is noted for its invigorating and sharp feel, offering pronounced feedback and a firm actuation force for a reactive and immersive typing sensation. The Akashi emphasizes a smooth and effortless typing feel, while the Sage provides a more tactile and impactful feedback with each keystroke.
In conclusion, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Akashi provides a resonant and bright sound with smooth and effortless typing feel, while the Sage delivers a crunchy sound with pronounced feedback and sharp tactile sensations. Choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel during typing sessions, with both switches offering distinct and enjoyable typing experiences for newcomers to mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, you should consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a smooth and resonant typing experience, then the Akashi switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a distinct clicky typing experience with pronounced feedback, then the Sage switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal typing style and preferences for feel and sound.
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