Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Bsun Light Sakura
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Bsun Light Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Bsun Light Sakura offer two distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The V3 Cream Blue Pro is celebrated for its engaging tactile feedback, featuring a satisfying pop and clack with every keystroke that elevates the typing experience, making it ideal for enthusiasts who relish an auditory and tactile interaction with their keyboard. Conversely, the Bsun Light Sakura provides a serene typing environment due to its linear switch design, emphasizing a smooth and silent operation that is perfect for long hours of work or shared spaces, promoting comfort without distracting others. While both switches cater to specific user needs—one prioritizing a spirited feedback and the other prioritizing quiet comfort—they each deliver quality and performance in their own right. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Bsun Light Sakura share a commonality in their top housing material; both utilize polycarbonate, which gives them a distinctive sharpness and clarity in sound. The advantages of a polycarbonate top housing include its stiffness, which contributes to a higher-pitched and crisper auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances its aesthetic appeal, especially in the context of RGB lighting where vibrant colors can shine through clearly. Therefore, those who value an illuminated visual display alongside a precise sound profile will find both switches deliver similar results in this regard.
However, the bottom housing materials of the two switches present a contrasting element that alters the overall sound profile. The V3 Cream Blue Pro features a nylon bottom housing, traditionally known for producing deeper and fuller sound due to its softer, sound-absorbing nature. This results in a more muted bottom-out sound compared to the sharper tones of polycarbonate. Conversely, the Light Sakura retains polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well, leading to a more consistent sound profile across both the top and bottom. This choice means that while the V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a textured experience with a richer, deeper resonance, the Bsun Light Sakura creates a more unified sound throughout its operation.
As a result, the varied combination of materials means that while the top housings provide a similar auditory experience for both switches, their audible experiences diverge significantly when considering the effect of the bottom housing. Users of the V3 Cream Blue Pro may appreciate the fullness provided by the nylon bottom, creating a contrast with the higher-pitched sounds of the polycarbonate top. In contrast, the consistency of polycarbonate in the Bsun Light Sakura delivers a cleaner and more resonant auditory experience. Thus, depending on a typist's preferences—whether aiming for varied depth or uniform sharpness in sound—the choice between these switches can be influenced significantly by their disparate bottom housing materials.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch present distinct differences in actuation and bottom out forces, which can significantly impact the typing experience. The V3 Cream Blue Pro features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light, thus providing a more substantial push feel that some users may prefer for tactile feedback while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Light Sakura switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it easier to press down, ideal for extended use without experiencing fatigue. Therefore, those looking for a more effortless typing experience might lean towards the Bsun Light Sakura, while users who enjoy a heavier switch with a firmer feel might opt for the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro. Consequently, the V3 is the heavier option between the two, making it suitable for users who appreciate more resistance in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch, we see a clear distinction. The V3 Cream Blue Pro features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Light Sakura has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that if you value a more tactile experience with a bit of depth, the Light Sakura may be the better choice, as it provides a longer actuation distance, which could feel less abrupt for some users. Conversely, the V3 Cream Blue Pro, with its shorter travel distance, might appeal more to gamers and users who prioritize faster response times and snappier key presses. Thus, although both switches offer unique benefits, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is the shorter option, while the Bsun Light Sakura provides a more extended experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Bsun Light Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Sakura for $3.49.
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
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch produces a distinct and vibrant sound, characterized by its poppy and clacky auditory profile. This noise offers a lively feedback experience, making it enjoyable for users who appreciate auditory cues while typing. In contrast, the Bsun Light Sakura switch focuses on silence and discretion, making it particularly suitable for quiet work environments. Its operation is designed to minimize sound, allowing users to type without bothering others around them. While the V3 Cream Blue Pro creates an engaging acoustic experience, the Light Sakura emphasizes a serene and unobtrusive atmosphere.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is rich in tactile feedback, described as accented and medium tactile, providing just the right amount of resistance for a responsive experience. Its bouncy nature gives a spring-like sensation, making each keystroke feel lively and engaging. Additionally, the switch is snappy, allowing for quick recovery after each press, and polished to reduce friction for smooth key travel. In contrast, the feeling of the Bsun Light Sakura switch remains undefined in the available information, but it is likely aimed at delivering comfort and reduced fatigue for extended typing sessions. Smoothness and lightness are expected, but specific descriptors are not provided.
In summary, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch stands out with its playful sound and engaging tactile feel, making it ideal for users who enjoy lively feedback. Meanwhile, the Bsun Light Sakura switch caters to those who prefer a quieter, more discreet typing experience without sacrificing comfort. While the V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a dynamic auditory and tactile experience, the Light Sakura prioritizes silence and ease, highlighting the diverse preferences within the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you relish a more tactile and auditory typing experience, particularly one that is lively and provides a satisfying pop with each keystroke, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is an excellent choice for you. Its medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, coupled with its uniquely snappy, bouncy, and polished feel, makes it perfect for those who enjoy a bit of feedback as they type. However, if you find yourself in a quiet workspace or need a switch that supports prolonged typing sessions without adding to noise or fatigue, the Bsun Light Sakura should be your go-to option. With its lighter bottom out force of 43 grams and a silent operation, it is ergonomically designed for comfort and discretion, allowing you to type for hours on end without disturbing your colleagues or yourself. In short, embrace the Cream Blue Pro for a dynamic and audible experience, and opt for the Light Sakura when comfort and quietness take precedence.