Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the distinct characteristics of tactile and linear options. The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches stand out for their delightful tactile bump and higher-pitched sound profile, providing a bouncy and snappy typing experience that many typists seek for both feedback and enjoyment. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi switches offer a smooth and seamless typing experience, characterized by their long-pole stems and extended springs, which contribute to an enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound that appeals to those who prioritize fluid keystrokes without tactile interruptions. While the Lavender Purple Pro is ideal for those looking for feedback and personality in their typing, the Taichi is better suited for users seeking a whisper-quiet, linear experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that meets your unique needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 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
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
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Bsun Taichi are remarkably similar, particularly in their choice of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate due to its properties that contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for a clearer resonance, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a sound that enhances the acoustic experience of typing. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate makes it well-suited for applications involving RGB lighting, as it beautifully showcases any illumination passing through the housing. Thus, users can expect a similar sound and aesthetic appeal from both switches thanks to this shared material.
In contrast, the bottom housing of both the V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Bsun Taichi is made from nylon, a classic choice in the keyboard switch market. Nylon is noted for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile, primarily due to its softer plastic composition which absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials. This leads to a more muted, rounder sound when the keys are bottomed out. The pairing of a polycarbonate top with a nylon bottom in both switches creates a well-balanced acoustic profile; while the polycarbonate contributes clarity upon release, the nylon provides warmth and depth when the key is pressed down. As both switches emulate this design strategy, the resulting sound signature remains consistently pleasing to the ear.
Ultimately, when analyzing the V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Bsun Taichi, it becomes clear that while they each feature different ergonomic designs and branding, their choice of materials leads to remarkably similar auditory experiences. This consistency means that whether typing on the V3 or the Taichi, users can expect a harmonious blend of the crisp, clear sound from the polycarbonate top and the rich, rounded tones from the nylon bottom. This shared focus on material quality ensures that both switches deliver comparable performance, allowing mechanical keyboard enthusiasts to enjoy a similar typing experience regardless of their chosen model.
Weight
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch present distinct differences in actuation forces, which can influence the overall typing experience. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro requires a medium-light actuation force of 45 grams, while the Taichi switch features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams. This makes the Taichi switch easier to press, potentially providing a more effortless typing experience that some may find preferable for extended use, like during long workhours or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Taichi switch is unknown, leaving a gap in comparative analysis. In contrast, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a bottom out force of 55 grams, indicating it provides a firmer bottoming out experience. Users who enjoy a more substantial feel may prefer the heavier feedback of the Akko switch, whereas those seeking a lighter touch might gravitate toward the Bsun Taichi. Overall, if you're looking for lighter actuation, the Taichi is the clear choice, while the Akko offers a firmer response upon bottoming out.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Bsun Taichi linear switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Lavender Purple Pro switch provides a more pronounced depth when pressed, making it suitable for users who appreciate a more substantial tactile experience. In contrast, the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Taichi switch may appeal to gamers and those seeking quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. Overall, if you prefer a switch that offers a deeper feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro would be the better choice, while the Taichi switch is ideal for those who prioritize speed and responsiveness in their key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Lavender 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 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches are notable for their higher-pitched sound profile, which contributes to a bright and satisfying aural feedback during typing. This sound can be particularly enjoyable for those who appreciate the acoustic dimension of their keyboard experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi linear switches also produce an enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, thanks to their long-pole stem and specially designed springs. Both switches have a tendency to create a higher-pitched auditory signature, but individual experiences may vary depending on the keyboard build and choice of keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches present a medium tactile experience, often described as accented, bouncy, and snappy; providing tactile feedback that is both noticeable and satisfying without being overwhelming. They also offer a polished feel, meaning that the key travel is smooth and refined. Users can expect a lively and responsive typing experience that enhances the overall interaction with the keyboard. The Bsun Taichi switches, while linear and thus lacking a tactile bump, focus on smoothness and stability, facilitated by their extended springs and walled stems. This results in an incredibly smooth key travel, making the Taichi ideal for those who prefer a more uninterrupted key press.
In conclusion, while the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switches deliver a delightful combination of sound and feel with their pronounced tactile feedback and polished experience, the Bsun Taichi linear switches prioritize a silky-smooth operation accompanied by a unique auditory signature. Both switches have their strengths, and although they cater to different preferences—tactile versus linear—they share common qualities in delivering a satisfying sound. Ultimately, choosing between them will boil down to personal preference regarding the tactile feedback and typing experience you're seeking.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the experiences you desire from your keyboard. If you appreciate a tactile feedback that provides a pleasant bump without being overly pronounced, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro is an excellent choice. Its medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams allows for comfortable typing sessions while maintaining a lively, snappy feel that is perfect for both typing and gaming. The higher-pitched sound profile adds to the overall enjoyment, making it suitable for those who thrive on feedback in their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience, the Bsun Taichi linear switch, known for its enchanting bottom-out sound and unparalleled smoothness, will meet your needs perfectly. The long-pole stem and extended springs contribute to its stability, making it ideal for uninterrupted typing sessions where you want to minimize tactile resistance and noise. Ultimately, whether you lean towards the tactile engagement of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro or the silky smoothness of the Bsun Taichi, your choice should align with your personal typing style and preferences.
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