Bsun Akashi vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch are standout options to consider. The Akashi offers a unique tactile feedback experience with its UPE stem, POM top, and nylon bottom housing combination, resulting in a bright, crisp bottom-out sound. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 boasts a silent tactile experience with a sharp tactile bump and plush bottom-out sensation. While the Akashi is known for its Clacky, Creamy, and Snappy qualities, the U4 is praised for its Muted and Sharp characteristics. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on personal preference. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Akashi and the Gazzew U4 both boast unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Akashi features a POM top housing, known for creating a deep and muted sound that is pleasing to the ear. In contrast, the U4 utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, nicknamed "boba plastic," which also produces a rich and deep sound due to its softness. While both offer deep sound profiles, the POM housing of the Akashi may provide a slightly more subdued experience compared to the Gazzew blend top housing of the U4.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Akashi incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which is a classic choice known for producing a fuller and deeper sound when typing. This is due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a rounder sound profile. Similarly, the Gazzew U4 utilizes its proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, which also delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. Both bottom housing materials offer a similar experience in terms of sound, with the nylon of the Akashi and the Gazzew blend of the U4 providing a deep and full typing experience.
When it comes to comparing the overall housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Gazzew U4, it's clear that both switches prioritize creating a rich and deep sound profile for users. While the Akashi utilizes POM for its top housing and nylon for its bottom housing, the U4 employs a proprietary Gazzew blend for both top and bottom housings. Despite the difference in materials, both switches aim to deliver a satisfying typing experience with deep, full sound profiles that are pleasing to the ear. Whether you prefer the slightly more muted sound of the Akashi's POM top housing or the rich sound of the U4's Gazzew blend top housing, both switches offer quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and bottom out force of 43 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a more substantial push feel for users who prefer a bit more resistance while typing. Both switches offer different typing experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces. Those who prefer longer typing sessions may gravitate towards the Akashi switch, while those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience may opt for the U4 switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference based on actuation and bottom out force preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, we see that the Akashi has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7mm compared to the U4's 3.6mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are preferred by gamers for faster response times. The slight difference in distance may not be noticeable to all users, but those who are sensitive to these details may prefer the Akashi for its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired level of responsiveness in typing or gaming activities.
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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 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 offers a clacky sound profile, known for its sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch produces a muted and low-pitched sound, providing a softer and quieter typing experience. Depending on personal preference, the Akashi switch may be more suitable for those who enjoy a bright and percussive sound, while the U4 switch would appeal to users seeking a more subdued and bass-heavy tone.
When it comes to feel, the Akashi switch is described as offering a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press typing experience. These qualities indicate a smooth and effortless keystroke with reduced friction and enhanced responsiveness. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 switch is characterized by a sharp tactile bump, providing a strong and crisp feedback intensity with each keypress. Users who prefer a more pronounced tactile sensation may find the U4 switch to be more satisfying, while those looking for a smoother and easier typing experience may opt for the Akashi switch.
In conclusion, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Akashi switch provides a clacky sound and a variety of smooth and responsive typing experiences, the U4 switch offers a muted sound profile and a sharp tactile bump for a more pronounced feedback intensity. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. It is important to consider all available information and potentially try both switches to determine which one best suits your needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a unique, resonant typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the Akashi may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a sharp tactile bump with a muted, low-pitched sound profile, the U4 may better suit your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the specific tactile and auditory feedback you prefer in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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