Bsun Akashi vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the BSUN Akashi and the Akko V3 Silver Pro mechanical keyboard switches, both belonging to the linear switch category, we find that they offer distinct qualities suited for different preferences and uses. The BSUN Akashi stands out for its unique UPE stem and hybrid housing combination, creating a resonant and crisp bottom-out sound with each keystroke. It is favored for its clacky, creamy, and frictionless typing experience, making it ideal for those who appreciate a polished and snappy feel while typing. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is tailored for gamers, boasting a smooth and bassy keystroke that excels in fast-paced scenarios. With light actuation force and shortened travel distance, it provides an easy-to-press and feathery typing sensation, particularly beneficial for gamers seeking quick response times. Both switches offer distinctive advantages, 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
40g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
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
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Akko V3 Silver Pro offer contrasting sound profiles due to their different compositions. The Akashi's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, while the V3 Silver Pro's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of both switches elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound. While both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, the choice of POM or polycarbonate for the top housing significantly affects the overall sound experience.
In terms of aesthetics, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is more likely to feature RGB lighting due to its polycarbonate top housing, as the material's translucency allows for a more vibrant display. In comparison, the Bsun Akashi may not be as visually dynamic but offers a unique sound experience with its POM top housing. The difference in top housing materials also impacts the feel of the switches when pressed, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when keys are released. Despite these differences, both switches offer a classic typing experience with their nylon bottom housings, showcasing the versatility of this traditional housing material.
Overall, the choice between the Bsun Akashi and the Akko V3 Silver Pro ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. While the Akashi's POM top housing may provide a more muted and deep sound, the V3 Silver Pro's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, making it ideal for those seeking a more high-pitched typing experience. However, both switches share the benefits of a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Whether you prioritize sound quality or visual appeal, each switch offers a unique typing experience that is sure to satisfy keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch are quite similar in terms of weight. Both switches have a light actuation force, with the Akashi requiring 37 grams and the V3 Silver Pro requiring 40 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Akashi is slightly lighter at 43 grams compared to the V3 Silver Pro's 45 grams. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Akashi for longer typing sessions, while others may appreciate the slightly heavier bottom out force of the V3 Silver Pro for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience with relatively light actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0mm distance, making them appealing to gamers looking for faster response times. The Bsun Akashi may provide a slightly more substantial feel due to its longer travel distance, which could be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper key press sensation. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro offers a quicker and more responsive typing experience with its shorter travel distance. In terms of distance, the Bsun Akashi has a longer travel distance than the Akko V3 Silver Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to 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 Akko V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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 offers a clacky and bright sound profile, thanks to its unique design with a UPE stem and a hybrid housing of POM and nylon. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch provides a high-pitched and crisp sound, tailored specifically for gamers. Both switches offer distinct acoustic experiences, with the Akashi having a more resonant tone and the V3 Silver Pro offering a bassy sound that might appeal to gaming enthusiasts. Ultimately, the sound preference between the two switches will depend on personal taste and the overall setup of the keyboard.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the BSUN Akashi is known for its creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience. This results in smooth and buttery keystrokes that glide effortlessly, providing a silky sensation to the user. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro offers an easy-to-press and creamy feel, making it comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Additionally, the V3 Silver Pro switch is described as feathery, further emphasizing the light actuation force and reduced strain on the fingers. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by providing a responsive and low-impact feel, catering to different preferences in terms of typing comfort.
In conclusion, the BSUN Akashi linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch each offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Akashi provides a clacky and resonant sound with a creamy and polished feel, the V3 Silver Pro delivers a high-pitched sound and an easy-to-press, feathery typing experience tailored for gamers. Choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profiles, tactile feedback, and overall typing comfort. However, it's worth noting that both switches offer smooth keystrokes and a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that users will get comparable results in terms of quality and performance.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the BSUN Akashi linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a unique tactile feedback experience with a resonant sound profile, opt for the Akashi switch. Its creamy, frictionless, and polished feel provides a smooth typing sensation that is both satisfying and effortless. On the other hand, if you are a gamer seeking swift keystrokes with a bassy sound profile and easy-to-press keys, the V3 Silver Pro may be the better choice for you. Its feathery and creamy feel, coupled with a polished finish, ensures a comfortable typing experience ideal for extended gaming sessions. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing feel, sound, and intended usage to maximize your satisfaction with your chosen mechanical keyboard switch.
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