Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches that enhance your typing experience, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and Bsun Taichi are two compelling linear options that showcase unique characteristics. The V3 Crystal Pro is crafted from fully polycarbonate materials, resulting in a bright and chirpy sound signature alongside a remarkably silky smooth typing experience. Users who appreciate a bouncy feel and a polished sound may find themselves gravitating toward these switches for their engaging auditory feedback and tactile enjoyment. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi switch emphasizes unparalleled smoothness and stability, thanks to its long-pole stem and extended springs, delivering a high-pitched bottom-out sound that appeals to those who seek a distinctive auditory experience while typing. While both switches cater to linear enthusiasts, they offer different sound profiles and tactile sensations that influence the overall typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Partial box
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Bsun Taichi share a commonality in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, which significantly influences their sound profiles. Both switches benefit from polycarbonate's properties, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This stiffer plastic not only enhances the resonation when keys are pressed but also accentuates the clarity of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting display, making both switches visually appealing for gamers and enthusiasts who prioritize aesthetics alongside performance. This mutual use of polycarbonate in the top housing ensures that users will experience a similar auditory feedback during key release, contributing to an overall lively typing or gaming experience.
However, the differentiation in the bottom housing material sets the two switches apart significantly. The V3 Crystal Pro features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which complements its top housing to create a cohesive sound output characterized by clarity and resonance. The properties of polycarbonate enhance the bottom-out sound as well, resulting in a consistent audio profile throughout the switch. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which infuses a depth and fullness to the sound profile distinct from its polycarbonate counterpart. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb sound effectively, producing a more muted and rounded bottom-out sound, which contrasts with the sharper output found in the V3 Crystal Pro. This difference in bottom housing materials provides a unique tactile experience and sound signature for each switch.
Ultimately, the interplay between the materials utilized in both the top and bottom housings of each switch generates individualized performance characteristics. In the case of the V3 Crystal Pro, the consistent use of polycarbonate from top to bottom results in a unified, crisp auditory experience. In contrast, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Taichi offers a unique blend of sharpness in the release sound paired with a deeper impact on bottoming out. While both switches provide excellent functionality, the distinct material choices mean that users will navigate a spectrum of auditory experiences, with the V3 reaching higher-pitched clarity and the Taichi providing a fuller, more resonant response.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation forces, which can influence user experience. The V3 Crystal Pro has an actuation force of 48 grams, while the Taichi has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams. This means that users looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Taichi switch, as it requires less force to register a keystroke, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the V3 Crystal Pro's heavier actuation force may appeal to those who seek a more substantial feel while typing, providing some tactile feedback. Additionally, the V3 Crystal Pro has a defined bottom out force of 60 grams, which contributes to the overall typing experience by indicating a firmer resistance at the end of the key press. However, the bottom out force for the Taichi switch is currently unknown, leaving a gap in the comparison. Overall, while the Taichi switch is lighter and may be more comfortable for prolonged use, the V3 Crystal Pro offers a stronger push feel that some users might prefer.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, there is a noticeable difference: the V3 Crystal Pro has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Taichi features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Taichi switch the more responsive choice, catering to gamers who favor quicker key actuation. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro provides a longer travel distance, which could be more appealing for those who enjoy a deeper, more satisfying press when typing. In essence, if you prefer a swift response, the Taichi is the better option, whereas if a more substantial depth is desired, the V3 Crystal Pro is ideal.
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 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 Crystal Pro switch is characterized by a distinctively bright and chirpy tone, which is influenced by its polycarbonate construction. This sonic signature gives the switch a lively quality, providing a unique auditory experience that can stand out on any keyboard. Meanwhile, while the Bsun Taichi switch's sound is noted to produce an enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, specific details about its acoustic characteristics, such as whether it shares a chirpy quality, are not provided. It's also worth acknowledging that the overall sound can be affected by factors like the keyboard plate and keycap material used, making a direct comparison difficult without specific auditory descriptions for the Taichi.
In terms of feel, the V3 Crystal Pro boasts a bouncy and polished typing experience. The bounciness in these switches gives a satisfying spring-like feedback when typing, making them responsive and lively. Additionally, the polished feel indicates a smooth and refined key travel, likely due to high-quality materials and possibly factory lubing, resulting in minimal friction. The Bsun Taichi's feel is not explicitly detailed, leaving a gap in direct comparison; however, with its long-pole stem and extended springs designed for smoothness and stability, one can infer that it is intended to provide its own level of refined feel during use.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a chirpy sound and a bouncy, polished feel that make it an engaging choice for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Bsun Taichi switch provides an enchanting bottom-out sound and aims for smoothness and stability, specific details about its sound and feel properties remain unknown. Newcomers should consider how both switches could complement their typing style; with the potential for a lively auditory experience from the Crystal Pro and a focus on stability from the Taichi, both categories promise to deliver satisfying results, albeit with different nuances.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch ultimately depends on what you prioritize in your typing experience. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force and enjoy a bright, chirpy sound paired with a silky smooth and bouncy feel, the V3 Crystal Pro is an excellent option. Its fully polycarbonate construction enhances both sound and tactile feedback, making it ideal for those who want a lively typing experience without sacrificing smoothness. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi switch, known for its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound and unparalleled smoothness due to its long-pole stem and extended springs, may appeal to those who prioritize sound signature and stability over tactile feedback. If you are seeking a unique acoustic experience without specific bottom-out force metrics, the Taichi could be your go-to. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on your individual preferences for sound characteristics and typing sensation, with each switch offering its unique strengths suited to different typing styles and aesthetics.
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