Bsun Akashi vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Akashi and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches are both exceptional options to consider. The Akashi offers a unique tactile feedback experience with its UPE stem and hybrid POM top/nylon bottom housing combination, resulting in a bright and crisp bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch from KTT distinguishes itself with its smooth and creamy feel, achieved through the use of POK material in the stem and bottom housing. The high-pitched and clacky sound signature of the Vanilla Ice Cream further sets it apart from other switches. Both switches are categorized with attributes such as 'creamy' and 'resonant,' but each offers its own distinct qualities that may appeal to different 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
43g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary KTT blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POK
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Akashi's POM top housing provides a unique and pleasing sound profile with deeper tones, while the Vanilla Ice Cream's KTT blend top housing offers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. In contrast, the Akashi's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, while the Vanilla Ice Cream's POK bottom housing boasts exceptional durability and smoothness, contributing to its clacky sound and feel.
Although both switches feature a combination of top and bottom housing materials that influence the overall sound and feel of the switch, they each prioritize different aspects. The Bsun Akashi focuses on providing a more muted and rounded sound with its POM top and nylon bottom housing, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream emphasizes a sharp and clacky sound signature through its KTT blend top and POK bottom housing. These differences in housing materials result in varied typing experiences, catering to diverse preferences in switch sound and feel.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Bsun Akashi and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches, they both aim to deliver high-quality typing experiences to users. Whether it's the unique sound profile of the Akashi's POM top housing or the smooth and durable performance of the Vanilla Ice Cream's POK bottom housing, both switches offer distinct advantages for enthusiasts seeking a personalized typing experience. By understanding the impact of different housing materials on switch sound and feel, users can make an informed choice based on their preferences for a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it is evident that the Akashi is lighter in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Akashi requires an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Vanilla Ice Cream has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is slightly heavier than the Akashi switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Akashi switch would be the preferred choice, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Vanilla Ice Cream switch with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces for a more pronounced key press. In this case, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it is evident that the Akashi has a longer travel distance of 3.7 mm compared to the Vanilla Ice Cream's 3.5 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, the Akashi provides a slightly deeper feel when pressed down. Gamers seeking a faster response time may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Vanilla Ice Cream, while those looking for a more substantial key press may lean towards the Akashi. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and the type of typing 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 KTT Vanilla Ice Cream has an MSRP of $5.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vanilla Ice Cream for $4.60.
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 bright, crisp bottom-out sound due to its UPE stem and unique housing combo of POM top and nylon bottom. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch delivers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, made possible by the ingenious use of POK in both the stem and bottom housing. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, with the Akashi being more resonant and the Vanilla Ice Cream being sharper and clacky.
Moving on to feel, the Akashi switch is described as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance and effortless keystrokes. Similarly, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is also described as buttery and creamy, emphasizing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Both switches excel in providing a seamless and comfortable typing sensation, making them ideal choices for those who prioritize typing feel and comfort.
In conclusion, the BSUN Akashi linear switch stands out for its unique tactile feedback and resonant sound profile, offering typists a novel and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch impresses with its smooth and creamy feel, coupled with a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a premium typing experience. Ultimately, whether choosing the Akashi or Vanilla Ice Cream switch, typists can expect to achieve satisfying results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering which switch to choose between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it's important to take into account your preferences for sound and feel. The Akashi offers a unique sound experience with its bright and crisp bottom-out, making each keystroke resonate in a distinctive way. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch provides a smooth and creamy feel that is reminiscent of its dessert-inspired name, delivering a seamless typing sensation. If you prefer a sharper and clacky sound profile, the Akashi may be the better option for you. However, if you are looking for a high-pitched and buttery typing experience, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two.
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