Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. Bsun Light Sakura
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Bsun Light Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Bsun Light Sakura offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro, categorized as a tactile switch, is known for its pronounced tactile bump and robust sound signature, providing an invigorating feedback that many typists and gamers find satisfying. This switch is perfect for individuals who appreciate auditory and tactile sensations, as its bassy tones enhance the typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Light Sakura stands out as a silent linear switch, celebrated for its ultra-light feel and whisper-quiet operation, making it a great choice for extended typing sessions in shared environments. It caters to those who value comfort, discretion, and a gentle typing experience without the distraction of key presses. Both switches serve unique purposes; 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
30g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
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 Creamy Purple Pro and the Bsun Light Sakura both incorporate polycarbonate in their top housings, which substantially influences the sound profile and aesthetic appeal of the key switches. Polycarbonate is known for its rigidity and excellent sound resonance, enabling both switches to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience. This harmonious quality of polycarbonate is particularly beneficial for users who appreciate RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for vibrant illumination effects. Consequently, both switches will deliver a similar performance in terms of sound clarity and visual aesthetics.
However, a key distinction lies in the bottom housing materials of the two switches. The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which traditionally contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon’s softer composition absorbs sound more effectively than stiffer materials, resulting in a rounded auditory output that contrasts with polycarbonate's sharper characteristics. On the other hand, the Bsun Light Sakura opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing as well, which aligns its overall sound profile with that of its top housing—similar to the V3 Creamy Purple Pro but lacking the nuanced depth provided by nylon. Thus, while both switches share polycarbonate for their top housing, they differ significantly in how their sound profiles will feel during use due to the material choices for their respective bottom housings.
When considering the overall typing and auditory experience, users will find the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro offers a broader sonic range due to its combination of polycarbonate and nylon, enhancing both the bottom-out sound and the release sound when keys are pressed. In contrast, the Bsun Light Sakura's dual polycarbonate construction yields a more uniform but potentially less varied auditory result, emphasizing clarity without the warmth that nylon can provide. Ultimately, while the Akko V3 and the Light Sakura can create enjoyable typing experiences, the differences in their bottom housings will lead to divergent acoustic profiles: the former with a richer sound, and the latter focusing on sharper clarity, despite their shared material in the top housing.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, compared to the Light Sakura's 37 grams, making it easier to press down and potentially more comfortable for extended typing sessions. In terms of bottom out force, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is heavier than the Light Sakura’s 43 grams. This difference means that while both switches are relatively light overall, the Creamy Purple Pro requires a bit more force to fully depress. Those who prefer a lighter switch for extended use may gravitate towards the V3 Creamy Purple Pro for its lower actuation force, whereas users who appreciate a firmer feel might lean towards the Bsun Light Sakura.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch reveals a notable difference in their design preferences. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro has a travel distance of 3 mm, which is on the shallower side, appealing to those who favor quicker response times often sought by gamers. In contrast, the Light Sakura boasts a greater travel distance of 3.6 mm, providing a more substantial feel that some users may prefer for a satisfying typing experience. Therefore, those who prioritize responsiveness may gravitate towards the shorter 3 mm travel of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro, while those appreciating a deeper, more tactile experience might opt for the longer 3.6 mm travel of the Light Sakura switch. This distinction allows users to choose based on their personal preferences for either speed or depth in their typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Creamy Purple Pro for $2.10.
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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro switch delivers a loud and robust auditory experience characterized by a bassier pitch, making it distinct and pronounced during use. This switch is well-suited for users who enjoy an audible confirmation of their keystrokes, creating a lively typing atmosphere. In contrast, the Bsun Light Sakura switch offers a silent operation that prioritizes discretion. Its design allows for a quieter typing experience, making it an excellent choice for office environments and shared spaces where minimizing noise is key. While both switches create differing sound profiles, the choice between them ultimately hinges on whether a user prefers auditory feedback or a more subdued, stealthy typing experience.
When considering the feel of each switch, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro stands out with its substantial tactile bump that provides invigorating feedback as you press down on the keys. This tactile feedback is ideal for typists who relish a pronounced sensation with each keystroke, making it a more engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Light Sakura offers an ultra-light actuation force, which is designed for ease and comfort during extended typing sessions. This lightness contributes to a gentle, fatigue-reducing feel that can enhance long-duration usage without sacrificing performance. The differences in feedback and actuation weight between these two switches cater to different preferences—whether one desires a lively tactile experience or a smooth, effortless glide.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and Bsun Light Sakura switches offer users two distinct typing experiences through their varying sound profiles and tactile feelings. While the Creamy Purple Pro emphasizes a loud, tactile feedback perfect for a vibrant typing atmosphere, the Light Sakura prioritizes discretion and comfort with its quiet, ultra-light design. The choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference, whether one prefers the engaging dynamics of a tactile switch or the serene ease of a linear switch. Each switch serves its purpose well; selecting one over the other will lead to different but rewarding experiences based on the specific qualities highlighted.
Conclusion
To conclude, the decision between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Bsun Light Sakura switches ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a tactile feedback and don’t mind a bit of noise, particularly for gaming or creative tasks where you want to feel the actuation point, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is an excellent choice with its pronounced tactile bump and characteristic bassy sound. It could enhance your engagement during typing or gaming sessions, providing both satisfaction and a dynamic auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter, smoother, and more discreet typing experience, especially in shared spaces or during long hours of work, the Light Sakura’s ultra-light resistance and silent operation would be more suitable. This switch is tailored for those seeking comfort and tranquility while minimizing distractions for yourself and others around you. By weighing these differences, you can choose the switch that aligns best with your unique needs, ensuring an enjoyable and productive typing experience.