Bsun Akashi vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron Type S mechanical keyboard switches, both switches offer a unique and enjoyable typing experience. The Akashi stands out for its innovative design featuring a UPE stem, POM top, and nylon bottom, which results in a bright and crisp bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the Type S impresses with its factory lubed switches and 65g bottom-out weight, providing a more weighty keystroke with a balanced and deep sound signature. While the Akashi is praised for its clacky and snappy feel, the Type S is known for its neutral and subdued characteristics. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Akashi and the Gateron Type S both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, making them similar in terms of material choice. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound absorption qualities. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This shared characteristic between the two switches means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel when it comes to bottom-out sound.
However, when it comes to the top housing, the Bsun Akashi stands out with its POM material, which creates a unique and pleasing sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted compared to nylon. POM housings are known for their distinct sound and feel, offering a different typing experience compared to nylon top housings. The Gateron Type S, on the other hand, also utilizes nylon for its top housing, providing users with a deeper and fuller sound profile that is characteristic of this classic switch housing material. These differences in top housing material will result in distinct sound profiles and typing experiences for each switch.
In conclusion, while both the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron Type S share nylon as the material for their bottom housing, they differ in their top housing materials. The Bsun Akashi's POM top housing offers a unique and relatively more muted sound profile, while the Gateron Type S's nylon top housing provides a classic deep and full sound experience. These differences in housing materials play a significant role in the overall sound profile and typing feel of each switch, giving users the option to choose a switch that aligns with their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, it is evident that there are some significant differences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Akashi has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Type S, which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. Similarly, the Akashi has a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Type S has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Akashi provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it ideal for those who prefer a more effortless keystroke. On the other hand, the Type S offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, suitable for those who prefer a heavier force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, the Akashi has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Type S has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both fall within the range of short travel distances, with the Akashi being on the shorter end and the Type S on the longer end. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Akashi with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Type S. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key travel distance.
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 Type S comes in at $4.70 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
When it comes to sound, the Bsun Akashi linear switch is renowned for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience with each keystroke. This distinct sound is achieved through the unique design of the switch, combining a UPE stem with a POM top and nylon bottom housing. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound signature, catering to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. While the Akashi leans towards a bright and percussive sound, the Type S provides a balanced and deeper acoustic experience, making it suitable for a variety of users and environments. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Akashi switch is characterized by its creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless keystroke with minimal resistance. This sensation is achieved through factory lubricant application and specific materials used in the switch design. Additionally, the Akashi switch is described as silky and easy-to-press, providing a responsive and low-impact typing feel that enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, information on the feel of the Gateron Type S linear switch is not provided. Given the lack of specific descriptors, it can be inferred that the Type S may offer a different tactile experience compared to the Akashi, potentially with a heavier keystroke due to its 65g bottom-out weight.
In conclusion, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Akashi excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a creamy, frictionless typing experience, catering to users who appreciate a smooth and responsive keystroke. On the other hand, the Type S offers a neutral and subdued sound signature, potentially with a heavier keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Regardless of the decision, both switches promise a high-quality typing experience that will surely satisfy mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams and enjoy a unique sound experience with a bright, crisp bottom-out, the Akashi may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke with a bottom out force of 65 grams and a sound profile that leans towards neutral yet deeper tones, the Type S could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound signature.
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