Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring mechanical keyboard switches, two notable contenders are the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Bsun Taichi, each offering distinct advantages suited to different typing preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro stands out with its tactile feedback, characterized by a satisfying pop and clacky sound profile, making it an ideal choice for users who crave an energetic typing experience paired with a creamy feel. This switch caters to those who enjoy auditory feedback and the sensation of tactile resistance, all within a budget-friendly package. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi excels as a linear switch, designed for those seeking an exceptionally smooth and stable keystroke. Its unique long-pole stem and extended springs create a whisper-quiet typing experience, making it perfect for users who prefer seamless key presses and minimal distraction. While the Cream Blue Pro provides a lively and interactive typing experience, the Taichi offers a more silent and fluid operation. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
20mm spring
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Bsun Taichi employ similar materials for their switch housings, specifically utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The choice of polycarbonate as a top housing material allows both switches to achieve a high-pitched, crisp sound profile due to the inherent stiffer nature of polycarbonate that enhances resonance and clarity. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate lends itself to effective RGB lighting integration, creating a visually appealing aesthetic that accentuates the switches' performance. Both switches benefit from this shared characteristic, ensuring that users will experience a comparable auditory quality, particularly during key releases, where the top housing significantly influences sound.
On the other hand, the bottom housing material presents a divergence that affects the overall acoustic experience of each switch. Both the V3 Cream Blue Pro and Taichi feature nylon as their bottom housing, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Since nylon is a softer plastic compared to polycarbonate, it tends to absorb sound more efficiently, leading to a rounder, less harsh decibel output during key presses. While the top housings offer crisp, clear tones, the nylon bottoms soften the overall experience, creating a complementary balance between the two materials. Therefore, both switches will deliver similar feel and sound profiles due to the combination of these materials, albeit the nylon will primarily impact the bottom-out feel and sound, rounding out the user experience.
Ultimately, the combination of these specific materials in both the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and Bsun Taichi makes for a distinctive yet harmonious interplay in acoustics and aesthetics. The clear, bright notes from the polycarbonate top housing are balanced by the softer, fuller sounds produced by the nylon bottom housing. As both switches utilize the same materials in their constructions, users can expect analogous performance characteristics, enjoying the benefits that come from a blend of sharp clarity and rich depth. While variations might exist in the specific design or internal components, the fundamental acoustic traits of both switches remain consistent, allowing enthusiasts to opt for either without compromising their desired auditory experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch to the Bsun Taichi linear switch, notable differences arise in their actuation forces. 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, which may be preferable for users seeking a balance between comfort and response during extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, suggesting a more effortless keystroke, although its bottom out force remains unspecified. This lack of information makes it difficult to assess the overall press resistance when fully depressed. Consequently, users who favor lighter switches may lean towards the Taichi, while those appreciating a more substantial tactile feedback should consider the V3 Cream Blue Pro due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is positioned as the heavier option in this comparison.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Bsun Taichi linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the V3 Cream Blue Pro the shorter option, appealing to gamers and users seeking quicker response times. In contrast, the Taichi's longer 3.6 mm travel distance may provide a more substantial feel for those who prefer a deeper keystroke, enhancing the tactile experience. Users who prioritize speed and efficiency would likely prefer the Akko switch, while those who enjoy a more pronounced depth in their key presses might gravitate towards the Taichi. Overall, choosing between these two switches hinges on individual preferences regarding travel distance and typing feel.
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 Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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 sound profile of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is characterized by a distinct poppy and clacky tone, creating an engaging auditory experience that appeals to users who enjoy a lively typing environment. The sound is further enhanced by a commendable level of smoothness, contributing to an overall pleasing acoustic presence while typing. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi linear switch offers an enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, attributed to its long-pole stem and extended springs. This results in a unique auditory signature that can be particularly satisfying, although it may lack the characteristic "clack" of a tactile switch. Both switches will produce unique sounds influenced by the choice of keyboard housing and keycap materials, but they each provide distinct auditory appeals for different typing preferences.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Cream Blue Pro provides a well-balanced typing experience. It is described as accented, ensuring that the tactile feedback is noticeable without being too overwhelming. This medium tactile sensation allows for a robust yet controlled input, which is complemented by a bouncy nature that gives each key press a spring-like rebound. Furthermore, the snappy responsiveness—thanks to the longer or dual-staged springs—enhances the overall tactile enjoyment. The polished finish contributes to a smooth key travel, ensuring that typing feels refined and effortless. The tactile feedback differs distinctly from the Taichi, which, while not elaborately described, is known for its focus on smoothness and stability, due to its long-pole stem and walled design. This could imply a more linear, straightforward feel, likely lacking the tactile punctuations that typists often seek in switches.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Bsun Taichi linear switches offer unique experiences catered to different preferences in sound and feel. The V3 Cream Blue Pro shines with its audibly engaging and tactile feedback, making it ideal for those seeking a lively typing sound and a medium tactile sensation. Meanwhile, the Taichi linear switch stands out with its high-pitched bottom-out sound and its emphasis on smoothness and stability, catering to users who prefer a more fluid, linear typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference, and both will yield satisfying results aligned with their respective qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. If you enjoy a lively and audible feedback while typing, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is an excellent choice, as it delivers a distinct poppy and clacky sound, combined with a polished and bouncy feel that enhances the overall typing experience. You'll appreciate the medium-light actuation force of 55 grams, allowing for an enjoyable level of responsiveness. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more stable experience without the auditory cues, the Bsun Taichi switch is tailored for you. Known for its enchanting high-pitched sound and unparalleled smoothness thanks to its long-pole stem and extended springs, it's perfect for those who value a seamless keystroke without the tactile feedback found in traditional switches. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize a tactile and engaging typing experience with sound or a whisper-quiet, linear feel.
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