Bsun Light Sakura vs. Akko Rosewood
An in-depth look at the Bsun Light Sakura and the Akko Rosewood switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Light Sakura and the Akko Rosewood both offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences and environments. The Light Sakura is crafted for those who prioritize comfort and discretion, featuring an ultra-light feel that excels during extended typing sessions. Its silent operation makes it an excellent choice for office environments or shared spaces, where maintaining a peaceful atmosphere is key. On the other hand, the Akko Rosewood switch stands out for its rich, thocky sound profile, enhanced by a factory-applied layer of lubrication that ensures a smooth keypress right out of the box. This switch is ideal for users who appreciate auditory feedback and the tactile satisfaction that comes with a deeper keystroke sound. While both switches are categorized as linear for their smooth actuation without tactile bumps, they cater to very different user experiences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your style and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
Nylon
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Light Sakura and the Akko Rosewood switches, a distinct contrast emerges in their composition and the auditory qualities they produce. The Light Sakura utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, which is associated with a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. Polycarbonate is notably a stiffer plastic, contributing to its ability to generate a clearer and more resonant sound. This material's translucency not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the switches, particularly under RGB lighting, but also significantly influences the audible experience one encounters when using the switches. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood employs nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which is known for creating a deeper, fuller sound profile. The nature of nylon being a softer plastic allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory output, which may appeal to users seeking a more muted typing experience.
The differing properties of the plastic materials impact not only the sound produced when using the switches but also influence the feeling during typing. The Light Sakura's polycarbonate components enhance the acoustic feedback during both key presses and releases, generating a bright, crisp sound. Thus, users can expect a lively and dynamic typing experience. Conversely, the soft characteristics of nylon in the Akko Rosewood provide a different tactile sensation; the switches yield a gentler sound that complements a quieter typing environment. The softer nature of nylon contributes to a smooth feel when pressing the keys down, contrasting sharply with the more responsive reaction afforded by the stiffer polycarbonate composition of the Light Sakura.
In summary, while the Bsun Light Sakura and Akko Rosewood switches employ different housing materials—polycarbonate in the former and nylon in the latter—both serve particular auditory and tactile experiences. Those who favor the sharpness and clarity of sound from the Light Sakura will appreciate its polycarbonate construction, especially in environments where RGB lighting enhances visual aesthetics. In contrast, users who prefer a sound profile that is deeper and more subdued may gravitate towards the Rosewood, finding comfort in its softer nylon housing. Ultimately, while both switches offer distinct experiences, the choice between them will depend on personal preference related to sound clarity versus sound absorption, reflecting the unique attributes of their respective materials.
Weight
The Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch both exhibit light actuation forces, but they differ slightly in their specifications. The Light Sakura requires 37 grams of force to actuate, while the Rosewood requires a slightly heavier 40 grams. This difference suggests that the Sakura may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Sakura reaches a force of 43 grams, compared to the Rosewood's 50 grams, indicating that the Rosewood provides a heavier feel at full depression. Therefore, while both switches are considered light overall, the Bsun Light Sakura can be expected to deliver a lighter typing experience, making it better for users who prioritize ease of use during extended periods, whereas the Akko Rosewood offers a more substantial feel for those who favor a stronger keystroke.
Travel distance
The Bsun Light Sakura linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Akko Rosewood linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Light Sakura the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Rosewood's longer travel distance of 4 mm caters to those who prefer a more substantial feel and a deeper keystroke, offering a different tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences regarding responsiveness versus depth. If you favor the shorter travel for its speed, the Light Sakura is the better option; however, if you lean towards a more pronounced keystroke, the Rosewood would be your pick.
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 Rosewood has an MSRP of $3.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rosewood for $3.11.
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 Bsun Light Sakura linear switch is designed for near-silent operation, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize discretion and wish to minimize any typing noise in shared environments. This makes it perfect for office settings or quiet spaces where disturbances should be kept to a minimum. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood linear switch produces a notably deep, thocky sound, offering a more pronounced auditory experience right out of the box. This richness is enhanced by a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant, contributing to a satisfying auditory feedback when typing. However, it's worth noting that the sound produced by any switch can still be influenced by a variety of factors including the choice of keyboard, keycaps, and even the typing technique used.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Light Sakura boasts an ultra-light actuation that ensures a comfortable typing experience, especially during extended sessions. This low-force requirement greatly reduces finger fatigue and allows for a gentle touch while typing. Conversely, the Akko Rosewood switch has a more substantial tactile presence, likely providing a firmer and more deliberate feel. This can offer more responsiveness when typing, appealing to those who enjoy a bit more weight in their switches during use. While both switches deliver distinct feelings, they cater to different preferences.
In conclusion, the Bsun Light Sakura and Akko Rosewood linear switches exemplify two differing approaches to the linear switch experience. The Light Sakura focuses on creating a quiet and ultra-light typing experience, ideal for environments demanding discretion. Meanwhile, the Rosewood switch emphasizes a satisfying sound profile paired with a firmer feel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize silence and comfort or a rich auditory feedback with a more substantial feel while typing. While their characteristics lie in contrasting philosophies, each can deliver enjoyable results tailored to specific user preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, consider your specific typing preferences and environment. If you prioritize a super light touch and a silent experience, especially for long hours of typing in a shared or quiet space, the Light Sakura is an excellent choice. Its 43-gram bottom-out force ensures that you can type effortlessly with minimal finger fatigue, all while enjoying a discreet operation. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more tactile experience coupled with satisfying acoustic feedback, the Akko Rosewood would be ideal. Its slightly heavier 50-gram bottom-out force provides a sturdier feel, and the rich, thocky sound adds a delightful auditory dimension to your typing experience right out of the box. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you value quiet comfort or a more pronounced sound and feel during your keyboard sessions.