Bsun Akashi vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Akashi and the Haimu Viola Tricolor stand out as unique options to consider. The Akashi linear switch is praised for its smoothness and distinctive sound produced by its UPE stem, POM top, and nylon bottom housing combination. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor tactile switch offers a thuddy and punchy sound profile while maintaining a satisfying level of tactility. The Akashi is known for its bright and crisp bottom-out, providing a resonant typing experience, while the Viola Tricolor strikes a perfect balance between tactile feedback and user comfort. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences - the Akashi for those seeking a smooth and resonant typing experience, and the Viola Tricolor for users looking for a balanced tactile feedback. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches offer different sound profiles due to their unique properties. The Akashi utilizes POM for its top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound, while the Viola Tricolor opts for polycarbonate to create a sharper and higher-pitched sound. However, both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile characterized by a duller and rounder tone. Despite the differences in top housing materials, the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a similar typing experience with regards to sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the Viola Tricolor's top housing allows for translucency, making it ideal for switches featuring RGB lighting. In contrast, the Akashi's POM top housing does not offer the same level of light transmission. While both housing materials have their own advantages, the choice between POM and polycarbonate ultimately depends on the desired sound profile and visual appeal. Additionally, the softer nature of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches helps to dampen sound and create a more pleasing typing experience overall.
When considering the overall impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This distinction highlights how the combination of different housing materials can create a unique typing experience tailored to individual preferences and priorities in sound and feel.
Weight
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. The Akashi also has a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Viola Tricolor has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Akashi make it a better option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, such as for work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Viola Tricolor provides a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Both switches offer distinct typing experiences based on their respective actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for typing.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Akashi linear switch is 3.7 mm, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for a more responsive typing experience. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance for quicker response times. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance to be too abrupt, preferring a switch with a bit more depth like the Viola Tricolor. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference based on desired typing feel and responsiveness.
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 Haimu Viola Tricolor has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Viola Tricolor for $3.09.
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 profile, producing a crisp and percussive noise with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offers a more bassy and low-pitched sound, providing a deeper and richer tone that adds character to the typing experience. Both switches have their unique sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing feel based on personal preferences and the setup of the keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Akashi is described as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press. These switches offer a smooth and effortless typing experience with reduced friction and enhanced responsiveness. In contrast, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch is characterized as accented and invigorating, offering a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. Both switches provide a satisfying feedback and tactile sensation, catering to different typing preferences and comfort levels.
Overall, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, providing users with a variety of options to choose from based on their preferences. Whether you prefer a clacky and creamy typing experience or a bassy and invigorating tactile feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing feel that best suits your needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the BSUN Akashi linear switch or the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light and smooth typing experience with a distinct sound profile that is described as clacky, the Akashi may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy tactile sensation with a punchy and bassy sound profile, the Viola Tricolor could be more suitable. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what factors matter most to you when deciding between the two. Ultimately, your typing experience will be greatly influenced by the switch you choose, so make sure to select the one that aligns best with your typing preferences.
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