Bsun Olive vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Bsun Olive and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it's easy to see the unique qualities each brings to the table. The Olive switches are praised for their resonant, deep sound and pronounced tactile feedback, making each keystroke satisfyingly sharp and crisp. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro switches are celebrated for their snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, providing a lively and pleasing tactile experience. While the Olive switch offers an accented and invigorating typing experience, the Piano Pro switch delivers a bouncy and creamy feel. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Olive and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches both offer unique sound profiles, with the Olive featuring POM top and bottom housing while the V3 Piano Pro utilizes nylon for both components. POM housings in the Olive switches create a deeper and relatively muted sound, while nylon housings in the Piano Pro switches result in a fuller and rounder sound due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. Despite the differences in material, both switches offer satisfying sound profiles, with the Olive leaning towards a deeper tone and the V3 Piano Pro providing a fuller sound.
In terms of feel, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the overall experience of pressing down on a switch. With POM bottom housing in the Olive switches and nylon bottom housing in the V3 Piano Pro switches, users can expect a difference in the impact and sound upon bottoming-out. The top housing, on the other hand, affects the sound when releasing a key, showcasing the importance of both components in creating a tactile typing experience. Although the materials differ between the two switches, they both contribute to the overall feel and sound profile users can expect when using them.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Bsun Olive and Akko V3 Piano Pro switches differ with POM and nylon components respectively, both switches offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences for users. The softness of nylon in the Piano Pro switches absorbs more sound, resulting in a fuller and rounder sound profile, whereas the POM material in the Olive switches creates a deeper and relatively muted sound. Despite these differences, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their distinctive characteristics, showcasing the impact housing materials can have on the overall feel and sound of mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch are quite different. The Olive has a heavier bottom out force at 65 grams compared to the V3 Piano Pro's 55 grams. However, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. This means that despite the difference in bottom out force, the initial push required to register a keystroke is the same for both switches. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the V3 Piano Pro may be the better choice due to its lighter bottom out force. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may find the heavier bottom out force of the Olive more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and desired actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Olive tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter range of travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking a faster response time. However, the V3 Piano Pro has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly more pronounced keypress compared to the Olive. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance, resulting in similar responsiveness when typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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
When it comes to sound, the BSUN Olive switches are known for their resonant and deep sound, providing a satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches offer a snappy and clacky sound signature, adding a lively and crisp quality to typing sessions. Both switches deliver distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and setup.
In terms of feel, the BSUN Olive switches are characterized by their pronounced tactile feedback, providing an invigorating and sharp typing sensation. The Akko V3 Piano Pro switches, on the other hand, offer a bouncy and creamy feel, ensuring a smooth and polished typing experience. Both switches feature unique tactile characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, whether you prefer a more pronounced tactile bump or a smoother, spring-like feedback.
Overall, the BSUN Olive and Akko V3 Piano Pro switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Olive switches provide a resonant sound and sharp tactile feedback, the V3 Piano Pro switches offer a lively sound signature and a bouncy, creamy feel. Choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, as both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences in terms of feel and sound. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch with pronounced tactile feedback and a deep, resonant sound, the Olive switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, the V3 Piano Pro switch might be more suitable for your typing style. Consider your typing preferences and whether you value a tactile feel or a linear smoothness when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience based on your personal preferences.
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