Bsun Pine vs. Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique qualities that cater to specific preferences. The Pine switch is known for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing direct and no-nonsense tactility for those who appreciate a clear-cut feedback. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch stands out with its budget-friendly option, offering a satisfying combination of a poppy, clacky sound and smoothness for a vibrant auditory experience paired with a creamy tactile feel. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Pine and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro, both keyboards feature polycarbonate top housings. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, as well as offers translucency for RGB lighting effects. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches leads to a more resonant and clear sound, making them ideal for those who prioritize sound quality in their keyboards.
However, the key difference lies in the bottom housing material. The Pine utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar characteristics in terms of sound profile. This similarity in material choice provides consistency in sound quality between the two keyboards, creating a uniform typing experience for users.
Overall, both the Bsun Pine and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro showcase a balance between the stiffer polycarbonate top housing and the softer nylon bottom housing. While the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. This combination of housing materials results in keyboards that deliver a dynamic and satisfying typing experience with a focus on sound quality and aesthetics.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Pine has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's 50 grams. However, the Pine has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Pine will require a lighter touch to register a keypress but will feel more substantial when fully pressed compared to the V3 Cream Yellow Pro. Both switches fall within the medium-heavy range when it comes to overall force required, offering a good balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the user's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, we can see that the Pine has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's 3.3 mm. While the difference between the two distances is minimal, it can still impact the overall feel of the switch when typing or gaming. The Pine may provide a slightly deeper press, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying keystroke, while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the individual user.
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 Yellow 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 Yellow 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 switches are well-known for their quiet and satisfying typing experience, offering a subtle and smooth sound profile that is ideal for those who prefer a more subdued auditory experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches are famous for their poppy and clacky sound, providing a vibrant and energetic typing experience that is sure to captivate users looking for a more lively auditory feedback. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the BSUN Pine switches are characterized by their sharp and invigorating tactile bump, offering a tactile experience that is both pronounced and snappy. This unique tactile feedback provides a distinct and responsive typing sensation that is sure to please users seeking a more direct and engaging feel. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches are lauded for their easy-to-press and feathery feel, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, these switches offer a bouncy and snappy response that adds to the overall typing experience, making them a preferred choice for those looking for a comfortable and effortless feel.
Overall, both the BSUN Pine tactile switches and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switches offer distinctive qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Pine switches provide a sharp and direct tactile experience with a quiet typing sound, perfect for those who value precise feedback. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches offer a lively and smooth typing feel with a poppy sound profile, making them an excellent choice for users looking for a more vibrant and energetic typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. Regardless of the choice, both switches are sure to deliver a satisfying typing experience that meets the needs of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a sharp tactile bump with a quick bottom-out and clear-cut feedback, then the Bsun Pine switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and creamy tactile feel with a poppy, clacky sound, then the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch might be more suited to your liking. Consider factors such as the bottom out force, type of feedback, and overall typing sensation that each switch offers to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your individual typing preferences and the kind of typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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