Bsun Light Sakura vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Bsun Light Sakura and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Light Sakura and the Akko V3 Piano Pro offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Bsun Light Sakura is celebrated for its silent operation and ultra-light feel, making it an excellent choice for those seeking comfort during long typing sessions in environments where discretion is key, such as offices or shared workplaces. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro provides a lively, crisp sound signature thanks to its long pole design, delivering a satisfying auditory response that enhances the typing experience while maintaining a smooth actuation. This switch appeals to users who enjoy a bit more feedback and character in their keystrokes. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Light Sakura and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, a significant distinction lies in the choice of plastic used for the top and bottom housings. The Light Sakura employs polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, which is known for its stiffer and more resonant characteristics. As a result, switches utilizing polycarbonate tend to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that enhances clarity, particularly in scenarios involving RGB lighting where the translucency of the material is beneficial. This consistent use of polycarbonate contributes to a cohesive auditory experience that reinforces the crisper sound typical of the Light Sakura switches.
In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro opts for nylon in both the top and bottom housings, fostering a different auditory signature. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and results in a deeper, fuller sound profile. The material choice leads to a more rounded auditory experience, dampening the higher-pitched noises that characterize polycarbonate switches. This notable difference translates not only into the overall sound but also affects the typing feedback, as the nylon's sound-dampening qualities can create a more subdued feel upon bottoming out. Thus, while the V3 Piano Pro may provide a richer sound experience compared to the sharper tonalities of the Light Sakura, it does so at the expense of some of the clarity offered by the stiffer material.
However, if the top and bottom housings were to utilize different materials, the resulting sound profile would be a blend of both plastics’ characteristics. In both the Light Sakura and Akko V3 Piano Pro, the interaction of housing materials influences the sound each switch produces during key presses and releases. With the Light Sakura, the consistent polycarbonate material leads to a unified and vibrant acoustic signature, while the Akko's nylon offers a warm and softer typing experience. Ultimately, both switches can achieve desirable results commensurate with their respective housing materials, yet the tactile and auditory experiences they provide differ substantially based on the inherent properties of polycarbonate versus nylon.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, distinct differences in weight can be observed. The Light Sakura features a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro has a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which positions it as a medium-light option. This heavier resistance may be favored by users who enjoy a more substantial, tactile feel while typing. Consequently, the Light Sakura switch is the lighter choice, while the V3 Piano Pro is the heavier one, catering to different preferences based on typing style and usage needs.
Travel distance
The Bsun Light Sakura linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This distinction makes the Light Sakura the preferable choice for those who enjoy a little more depth in their keystrokes, as it offers a more pronounced tactile experience. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro, with its slightly shallower travel distance, may appeal more to gamers seeking quicker response times and more immediate feedback. While both switches fall within the realm of modern, shorter travel distances, the difference is subtle yet notable; ultimately, users interested in a cushioned, deeper feel might lean towards the Light Sakura, while those valuing speed would find the V3 Piano Pro more to their liking.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Akko V3 Piano 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 Piano Pro for $3.10.
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 Bsun Light Sakura linear switch emphasizes its discretion and quiet operation, making it an ideal choice for environments where noise pollution is a concern. This switch is designed to be silent, allowing for a typing experience that won’t disrupt colleagues or family members. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch provides a markedly different auditory signature. Known for its clacky and resonant characteristics, the V3 Piano Pro delivers a sharp, snappy sound with each keystroke, creating a lively and engaging typing atmosphere. Users will find that the Piano Pro's sound is both crisp and bright, enhancing the sensory experience of typing.
When it comes to the feel of each switch, the Bsun Light Sakura is engineered for comfort with its ultra-light touch, making long typing sessions less taxing on the fingers. This gentle actuation facilitates a relaxed typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offers a much more vibrant tactile feedback. It features a bouncy, elastic response that gives typers a satisfying rebound, reminiscent of a spring-like sensation. Additionally, the mention of creaminess, polish, and silkiness in the V3 Piano Pro further implies a smooth and luxurious typing experience, suggesting that users will encounter reduced friction and an effortlessly fluid keystroke.
In summary, the Bsun Light Sakura and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switches cater to distinctly different user preferences in both sound and feel. The Light Sakura focuses on silent operation and a lightweight touch for comfort during extended use, which is ideal for quiet environments. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro provides an engaging auditory experience with its clacky and resonant sounds, alongside a lively tactile feedback that enhances the overall sensation of typing. Choosing between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize discretion and comfort or crave an engaging and dynamic typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Light Sakura and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switches largely depends on your specific needs and typing environment. If you often find yourself engaged in long typing sessions or working in shared spaces where silence is appreciated, the Light Sakura’s ultra-light feel and quiet operation may be more suitable for you. Its design minimizes fatigue and distraction, making it perfect for focusing on your tasks without disturbing colleagues or housemates. On the other hand, if you prefer a more lively typing experience with an audible feedback, the V3 Piano Pro could be your ideal choice. Its snappy sound profile, combined with a bouncy and creamy feel, enhances the actuation experience, making each keystroke feel crisp and responsive. This switch is great for those who enjoy a bit of auditory delight while typing or gaming. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether comfort and discretion outweigh the desire for sound and tactile feedback in your typing experience.
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