Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Bsun Olive are two popular options to consider. The V3 Crystal Pro features a linear switch with fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive offers a tactile switch with all-POM housings, delivering a resonant, deep sound and pronounced tactile feedback for a satisfying typing experience. While the V3 Crystal Pro is known for its bouncy and polished feel, the Bsun Olive is characterized by its invigorating and sharp typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Bsun Olive, it is evident that they both use different materials for their top and bottom housings. The V3 Crystal Pro features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, while the Bsun Olive utilizes a POM material for both top and bottom housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, whereas POM housings produce a deeper and more muted sound. This stark difference in sound profiles may appeal to different preferences, with the V3 Crystal Pro offering a clearer and more resonant sound, while the Bsun Olive provides a unique and pleasing deeper sound.
While the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate top and bottom housings both contribute to a sharper sound profile, the Bsun Olive's POM top and bottom housings create a consistent deeper and muted sound throughout. This highlights the importance of considering both top and bottom housing materials in determining the overall sound profile of a switch. The translucency of polycarbonate in the V3 Crystal Pro also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switch. In contrast, the Bsun Olive's POM material may not offer the same visual effects but provides a distinct sound experience that some users may prefer.
Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Bsun Olive hinges on personal preference for sound profile and aesthetics. While the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate housing may offer a sharper and more resonant sound, the Bsun Olive's POM housing provides a unique and pleasing deep sound. Both switches have their own strengths and weaknesses based on their housing materials, and users may find it beneficial to try out both to determine which sound profile aligns with their preferences. In the end, whether you opt for the V3 Crystal Pro or the Bsun Olive, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials.
Weight
Both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch feature medium actuation forces, with the V3 Crystal Pro at 48 grams and the Olive at 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Crystal Pro has a lighter 60-gram force compared to the Olive's heavier 65-gram force. Typing on the V3 Crystal Pro may feel slightly easier on the fingers due to the lower bottom out force, making it a preferred choice for those who type for extended periods. In contrast, the Olive switch offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, if weight is a significant factor for you, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Bsun Olive tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for their faster response times. However, the V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Olive switch. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Akko V3 Crystal Pro, while individuals who enjoy a deeper keypress may prefer the Bsun Olive tactile switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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
Overall, when comparing the subjective qualities of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, it is evident that they offer different sound and feel experiences. The V3 Crystal Pro provides a bright and chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter and quieter typing sound. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive switches offer a resonant, deep sound with pronounced tactile feedback, giving users a more tactile and satisfying typing experience.
The V3 Crystal Pro has a bouncy and polished feel, providing a spring-like feedback and a smooth typing experience, which may appeal to those who prefer a more lively and refined feel. In contrast, the Bsun Olive switches offer an accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy tactile feel, giving users a strong and crisp tactile bump with a responsive and immersive typing sensation.
Ultimately, the choice between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch will depend on personal preference for sound and feel. If a user prefers a brighter and chirpier sound with a smooth typing experience, they may opt for the V3 Crystal Pro. On the other hand, if a user desires a resonant, deep sound with pronounced tactile feedback and a more tactile typing experience, the Bsun Olive switches would be the preferred option. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience, so users can expect satisfying results regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a bright and chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing experience, then the Crystal Pro switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a resonant, deep sound with pronounced tactile feedback for a crisp bottom-out, the Olive switch may be more to your liking. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force, the Crystal Pro at 60 grams may be more suitable, while the Olive at 65 grams offers a medium-heavy feel. Consider these factors carefully when making your decision to ensure you choose the switch that best aligns with your preferences and typing style.
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