Bsun Pine vs. Akko V3 Crystal Pro
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Pine and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The BSUN Pine switch is a tactile switch known for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing a direct and no-nonsense typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro is a linear switch made of fully polycarbonate construction, offering a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing feel. Each switch is categorized by their own set of characteristics - the Pine being 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', 'Snappy' and the Crystal Pro being 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', 'Polished'. 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
48g
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
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Pine and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate lends itself to a more resonant sound, making it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Bsun Pine utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Akko V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon helps absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches using this material.
Despite both switches having polycarbonate top housings, the difference in bottom housing materials between the Bsun Pine and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro will affect the overall typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of the Pine contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, creating a distinct typing experience with a deeper sound profile. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Crystal Pro provides a sharper and more resonant sound when key presses are released, highlighting the differences in sound profiles between the two switches.
In conclusion, while both the Bsun Pine and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound profile, their differing bottom housing materials lead to unique typing experiences. The Pine's nylon bottom housing creates a fuller sound profile with a deeper feel, while the Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing results in a crisper sound when releasing key presses. These differences showcase how varying housing materials can impact the overall sound and feel of mechanical keyboards, catering to different preferences among users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Pine has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's 48 grams. However, the Pine has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, while the V3 Crystal Pro has a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Pine requires less force to trigger a keystroke but exerts more pressure when fully pressed, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro offers a more consistent typing feel with a lighter bottom out force than its actuation force, resulting in a medium typing experience overall. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Pine for extended typing sessions, while others may appreciate the more substantial typing experience offered by the V3 Crystal Pro. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Pine being slightly shorter than the V3 Crystal Pro. Gamers may prefer the Pine for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial keypress may gravitate towards the V3 Crystal Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of response time and keypress depth.
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 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the Pine switch is known for a sharp and distinct click with a quick bottom-out feel, providing a satisfying auditory response. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro switch offers a unique chirpy sound signature, adding a touch of whimsy to the typing experience. Both switches produce different sound profiles that cater to individual preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the overall sound profile you are aiming for in your mechanical keyboard setup.
In terms of feel, the Pine switch is characterized by its sharp, invigorating, and snappy tactile feedback, offering a pronounced typing experience that is both responsive and engaging. Conversely, the V3 Crystal Pro switch provides a bouncy and polished feel, giving a smooth and refined typing sensation with a bit of spring-like feedback. Both switches offer distinct tactile experiences that can enhance typing speed and accuracy, with the choice between the two depending on personal preference for the type of feedback desired during typing sessions.
Considering the sound and feel profiles of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, it is clear that they offer distinct typing experiences. The Pine switch excels in providing a sharp tactile bump with a quick bottom-out and sharp auditory click, appealing to those who value direct tactility. Conversely, the V3 Crystal Pro switch stands out with its polycarbonate construction, delivering a chirpy sound signature and a smooth, polished feel that caters to those seeking a refined typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, with either option providing a unique and satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the BSUN Pine tactile switch or the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a sharp tactile bump with quick bottom-out, the Pine switch would be ideal for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a smooth typing experience with a bouncy feel and chirpy sound, the Crystal Pro switch may better suit your preferences. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what characteristics are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize crisp tactility or smooth linear feel in your mechanical keyboard.
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