Bsun Pine vs. Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the BSUN Pine tactile switch with the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch, it's important to note their unique characteristics. The BSUN Pine switches are highly regarded for their sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, offering a direct and no-nonsense typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches are favored for their budget-friendly yet high-quality build, providing a lively and audible feedback with a smooth and creamy tactile sensation. While both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, the Pine is known for its sharp tactility, while the Cream Blue Pro excels in providing a pleasant sound profile alongside a tactile sensation. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Pine and Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, both switches benefit from the properties of polycarbonate in their top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Bsun Pine uses nylon, while the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a distinct typing experience for each switch. Despite both switches having nylon bottom housings, the specific design and construction may still impact the sound and feel of typing on each switch differently.
Overall, the housing materials of the Bsun Pine and Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing characteristics, the differences in their nylon bottom housings contribute to unique sound profiles. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound with polycarbonate or a deeper and fuller sound with nylon, each switch offers its own distinct typing experience based on the materials used in their housings.
Weight
The Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch have similar actuation forces of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of the force needed to trigger a keystroke. However, where they differ is in their bottom out forces. The Bsun Pine has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro's bottom out force of 55 grams, making the Pine switch feel more substantial when fully pressed. This difference in bottom out force may appeal to those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the lighter bottom out force of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro may be more suitable for individuals looking for a lighter typing experience to prevent fatigue during extended typing sessions or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the user's preference for a heavier or lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, while the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0mm standard. Gamers may appreciate the quicker response time provided by the shorter travel distance of the V3 Cream Blue Pro, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the slightly longer travel distance of the Pine switch. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
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 Pine tactile switch is known for its distinct, sharp, and direct feedback, perfect for those who prefer a no-nonsense auditory experience during typing. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch offers a more poppy and clacky sound profile, coupled with a smooth feel that appeals to users looking for an audible yet creamy tactile sensation. Both switches provide unique sound profiles that can elevate the typing experience, with the Pine delivering a sharper feedback and the V3 Cream Blue Pro offering a more lively and smooth sound.
Moving on to feel, the BSUN Pine tactile switch is characterized by its sharp and invigorating feedback, providing a pronounced tactile bump that is distinctly felt with each keystroke. This switch offers a snappy and accentuated typing experience, perfect for users who enjoy a medium tactile sensation that is not overpowering. Conversely, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch is described as bouncy and snappy, with a polished finish that enhances the smoothness of key travel. This switch offers a balanced tactile feel, giving users a comfortable and responsive typing experience that is lively and rebounding.
In conclusion, while the BSUN Pine and Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switches offer different sound and feel profiles, both provide unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Pine excels in sharp tactile feedback and quick key bottom-out, while the V3 Cream Blue Pro stands out for its poppy sound, smooth feel, and bouncy feedback. Depending on the user's preference for sound and feel, either switch can offer a satisfying typing experience that enhances productivity and comfort. Ultimately, choosing between the two would come down to personal preference in terms of sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch, consider your preference for the level of bottom out force. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, then the Pine switches would be a suitable choice for you. Their sharp tactile bump and fast action provide a direct and no-nonsense typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, the V3 Cream Blue Pro switches may be more to your liking. These switches offer a unique poppy and clacky sound profile with a smooth and creamy tactile sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for bottom out force and typing experience.
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