Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Bsun Light Sakura
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Bsun Light Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Bsun Light Sakura offer distinct experiences that cater to different user preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro, known for its vibrant polycarbonate construction, delivers a unique and lively typing experience characterized by a bright, chirpy sound signature and a silky smooth feel. This switch excels for those who enjoy a more tactile and responsive typing experience, often appealing to gamers and typists who appreciate feedback in their keystrokes. Conversely, the Bsun Light Sakura is designed for a quieter, more discreet operation, making it perfect for office environments or shared spaces. Its ultra-light feel facilitates extended typing sessions while minimizing fatigue, prioritizing comfort without the distraction of noise. Both switches have their unique strengths, appealing to different lifestyles and preferences; 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
48g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Bsun Light Sakura utilize polycarbonate for both their top and bottom housings, which means that their acoustic characteristics are remarkably similar. The use of polycarbonate in these switches results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is primarily due to the material's stiffness, which promotes clarity and resonance when the switch is activated. Both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, making it an excellent choice for showcasing RGB lighting effects, adding to both the aesthetic appeal and the auditory experience.
Since both the V3 Crystal Pro and the Light Sakura share identical housing materials, users can expect similar performance in sound quality and responsiveness. The consistency in polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings means that the overall sound profile will be more cohesive, as the acoustic qualities are evenly distributed throughout the switch. This design choice enhances the typing experience, ensuring that each keystroke delivers a consistent and enjoyable auditory feedback, regardless of which switch is in use.
However, if there were variations in materials, the distinct properties of each would contribute differently to the switch's overall performance. For example, if one switch featured a softer material for the bottom housing, it might provide a more bass-heavy bottom-out sound, while a stiffer top housing would emphasize the sound produced upon release. In this particular case, since both the V3 Crystal Pro and Light Sakura are crafted from polycarbonate, users can enjoy a uniform feel and sonic experience, making them both excellent choices for those seeking precision and clarity in their mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch, significant differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The V3 Crystal Pro has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating a medium push that may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Light Sakura features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch that facilitates prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Therefore, the V3 Crystal Pro is the heavier option, while the Light Sakura is the lighter choice, appealing to different user preferences in terms of typing feel and comfort.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the V3 Crystal Pro offers a deeper keystroke, which may provide a more pronounced tactile feedback for users who prefer a fuller feel when typing or gaming. Conversely, the Light Sakura's 3.6 mm travel distance caters to those who favor quicker response times and a more immediate actuation, aligning with the trend for shorter travel distances among gamers. Ultimately, if you select the Light Sakura switch, you may experience a more rapid keypress, while the V3 Crystal Pro will deliver a more robust depth in each keystroke. Hence, the V3 Crystal Pro is the longer switch, and the Light Sakura is the shorter one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch stands out with its bright and chirpy acoustic signature. This characteristic creates a lively typing environment, which can be somewhat engaging for makers and gamers alike. In stark contrast, the Bsun Light Sakura is designed for a silent operation, making it an excellent choice for those who are conscious about noise levels, such as in shared offices or quiet environments. While the Crystal Pro offers a distinct sound that could add to the typing experience, the Light Sakura emphasizes discretion, resulting in an entirely different auditory profile that leans heavily toward silence.
In terms of feel, the V3 Crystal Pro switches provide a bouncy and polished experience that enhances tactile engagement during typing. The bouncy nature gives users a spring-like feedback, making each keypress dynamic and responsive, while the polished finish ensures smooth travel with minimal friction. This combination is likely to satisfy users who prefer active and engaging typing experiences. The Light Sakura, on the other hand, prioritizes a gentle touch with its ultra-light feel, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions. While not explicitly defined, the switch's comfort-driven design is likely oriented towards creating a fatigue-reducing experience, effectively catering to those who prioritize quiet comfort over tactile feedback.
In summary, if you are looking for a vibrant sound and a lively typing experience, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are after a silent operation and a gentle feel, especially for long hours of typing without disturbing others, the Bsun Light Sakura would likely be more aligned with your needs. Ultimately, the decision boils down to your personal preference regarding sound and feel, as both switches offer different qualities that cater to distinct typing styles and environments.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you enjoy a more tactile response with a springy, bouncy feel, along with a distinctively chirpy sound that can provide some auditory flair to your typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro would be an excellent choice. Its 60-gram bottom-out force strikes a balance that many find comfortable for both gaming and typing tasks. Conversely, if you prioritize a quieter, more discreet typing experience that encourages longer sessions without fatigue, the Light Sakura is the better option. With its ultra-light 43-gram activation force and silent operation, it's particularly well-suited for office settings or shared environments where noise can be a concern. Ultimately, if you want a lively and engaging typing feel, go for the V3 Crystal Pro; however, if comfort and silence are your primary goals, the Light Sakura is the way to go. Your choice should reflect how you plan to use your keyboard and what characteristics matter most to you.
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