Bsun Light Sakura vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Bsun Light Sakura and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When navigating the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can greatly influence your typing or gaming experience. Two notable contenders in the realm of linear switches are the Bsun Light Sakura and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, each catering to different user needs. The Bsun Light Sakura is renowned for its ultra-light feel and silent operation, making it an excellent option for extended typing sessions in office environments or shared spaces where discretion is paramount. This switch is designed for comfort, minimizing fatigue and allowing for a gentle typing experience. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro targets gamers with its quick actuation force and reduced travel distance, features that can provide a competitive edge where speed is essential. Its satisfying bassy sound enhances the overall tactile experience, making it appealing for both gaming and casual typing. While both switches offer unique benefits—quiet comfort versus rapid responsiveness—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
40g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended spring
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Bsun Light Sakura and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches, the top housing material is identical: both utilize polycarbonate. The shared use of this material in the top housing contributes to a similar auditory experience, producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This similarity is rooted in the characteristics of polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that allows for a clear and resonant output, ideal for enthusiasts who appreciate the nuances of keystroke sounds. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances the visual appeal when RGB lighting is employed, making both switches visually striking while maintaining performance consistency.
In contrast, the bottom housings of these switches differentiate them significantly. The Light Sakura uses a polycarbonate material for the bottom housing as well, reinforcing the bright and resonant sound profile established by its top housing. In comparison, the Akko V3 Silver Pro's nylon bottom housing absorbs sound better due to its relatively softer plastic composition. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile that contrasts with the sharper notes from the top housing. Consequently, while both switches may share the same top housing material, the bottom housing alters their overall aural experience as the varied material properties impact how sound is produced and felt during use.
Ultimately, the split between the materials of the top and bottom housings means that the user experience will reflect the characteristics of both materials. The Light Sakura is likely to deliver a consistent crispness from top to bottom, creating a seamless auditory experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro's combination of a bright top with a sound-absorbing nylon bottom offers a more nuanced keystroke experience, balancing the sharpness with some depth thanks to the properties of nylon. Thus, while both switches can be expected to perform well under RGB lighting, the Light Sakura favors clarity, while the V3 Silver Pro excels in producing a more rounded acoustical profile.
Weight
The Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch both offer a light typing experience, but they do have some differences in their force requirements. The Light Sakura has a slightly lower actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it the lighter option between the two. In contrast, the V3 Silver Pro requires an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, which, while still light, is marginally heavier. This means that typists who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions may favor the Sakura switch, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance and a firmer feel may opt for the V3 Silver Pro. Ultimately, while both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces cater to different preferences regarding typing weight and feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, the Light Sakura boasts a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the V3 Silver Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that if you're looking for more depth in your key presses, the Light Sakura would be the preferable option, providing a more substantial feel during typing. On the other hand, for those who favor quicker responses typical of gaming preferences, the Akko V3 Silver Pro's shorter travel distance may offer a more agile experience. In summary, the Light Sakura switch features a longer travel distance, making it suitable for those who appreciate a deeper feel, while the V3 Silver Pro provides a shorter travel distance ideal for rapid key presses.
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 Silver 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 Silver 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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Light Sakura switch is designed for nearly silent operation, making it a perfect choice for those who need to type in shared or quiet environments without disturbing others. The focus here is on discretion, allowing for a comfortable typing experience without the anxiety of loud keystrokes. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro produces a more pronounced high-pitched sound, characterized as sharp and crisp. This sound can provide auditory feedback that some gamers appreciate, as it adds a layer of stimulation during gameplay. The difference in sound profiles indicates that while the Light Sakura prioritizes quietness, the V3 Silver Pro embraces a more vibrant sound, appealing to those who enjoy a noticeable tactile experience during use.
When comparing the feel of each switch, the Bsun Light Sakura excels in offering a gentle, ultra-light typing experience that minimizes fatigue, making it ideal for prolonged usage without discomfort. The switch is tailored for comfort and promotes a fatigue-reducing interaction, thereby enhancing the typing experience for tasks that require longer durations. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro stands out with its easy-to-press design, providing a smooth, creamy feel that involves minimal effort during key presses. With descriptors such as feathery and polished, the V3 Silver Pro is engineered to deliver a silky and responsive typing experience that reduces strain while enhancing overall performance, especially in gaming scenarios where quick reactions are critical.
In summary, both switches cater to different user needs: the Light Sakura is perfect for those valuing silence and comfort, while the V3 Silver Pro appeals to gamers looking for speed and an engaging auditory experience. If you are inclined towards quietude and fatigue reduction, the Light Sakura is the way to go; however, if you seek auditory feedback and a responsive touch, the V3 Silver Pro will likely enhance your gaming sessions. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your priorities in terms of sound and feel, as each presents a unique blend of qualities suited to different contexts and user preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch ultimately hinges on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a quiet, gentle typing experience, particularly for long periods or in shared workspaces, the Light Sakura is the ideal choice. Its lightweight design and soft bottom-out force of 43 grams offer a comfort-focused, fatigue-reducing experience that allows you to type with minimal disruption. On the other hand, if you’re a gamer looking for performance-oriented switches that provide an edge in responsiveness, the V3 Silver Pro is geared to meet that demand. With its slightly firmer 45-gram actuation force and a quicker travel distance, this switch delivers crisp, high-pitched feedback and an effortless keystroke that enhances gameplay. In essence, select the Light Sakura for serene typing in tranquil environments and the V3 Silver Pro for a dynamic, competitive gaming experience.
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