Akko V3 Piano Pro vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Bsun Taichi offer distinct experiences, each catering to different preferences. The V3 Piano Pro switches are celebrated for their lively, crisp sound signature, which enhances the auditory feedback of each keystroke, making typing feel both dynamic and engaging. With a smooth actuation and a bounce that provides a polished, silky feel, they are a great choice for those who value a responsive and aesthetically pleasing typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi switches are engineered for exceptional smoothness and stability, featuring a high-pitched bottom-out sound that adds a unique auditory quality to every press. Their long-pole stems and extended springs contribute to a seamless typing experience, ideal for users who appreciate reliability in performance. Both switches have their own appeal, making it essential to consider individual preferences. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
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
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Bsun Taichi are two distinct mechanical switches that showcase the diverse effects of different housing materials on typing experience. The V3 Piano Pro features a nylon top housing, which is recognized for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile. This characteristic arises from nylon's softer plastic composition, which absorbs sound waves more effectively than harder materials. As a result, when typing on the V3 Piano Pro, users will experience a more muted, rounder auditory experience, making it appealing to those who prefer a softer touch and sound. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer composition. Polycarbonate's rigidity contributes to a more resonant output, creating a significantly different auditory experience for users seeking clarity and brightness in their keystrokes.
When examining the bottom housings, both the V3 Piano Pro and the Bsun Taichi opt for nylon, which leads to a shared characteristic in terms of sound profile. Similar to the top housing of the V3 Piano Pro, the nylon bottom housing in the Taichi contributes to a deeper and fuller sound upon bottoming out the key. This shared material choice means that despite the contrasting top housings, both switches will offer a softer auditory experience during key press and release because of the nylon's inherent properties. Consequently, while the Taichi retains the clarity from its polycarbonate top housing, it balances this effect with the nylon's muted qualities on its bottom, producing an intriguing mix of auditory responses.
Ultimately, the combination of materials used in both switches highlights the delicate interplay between housing types in shaping the overall typing experience. Users of the Akko V3 Piano Pro can expect a harmonious blend of deeper tones due to the nylon top and bottom housing, making it ideal for a muted typing experience. Meanwhile, the Bsun Taichi, with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom, will capture a unique sound signature that leans towards a crisp experience, while still incorporating some deeper notes from the nylon. For users seeking similar experiences across the two switches, focusing on the bottom housing and its effect on sound will yield similarities, particularly in the muffled, rounded auditory profile shared by both switches during the act of typing.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out forces reveal some key differences. The V3 Piano Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light option that strikes a balance between comfort and resistance, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi linear switch features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, which may appeal to those who prefer a softer touch for faster typing or gaming. However, the bottom out force for the Taichi switch is unspecified, leaving a gap in direct comparison regarding how it feels when fully pressed down. Overall, the V3 Piano Pro is the heavier of the two, while the Bsun Taichi is lighter, providing a different tactile experience for users depending on their preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Bsun Taichi linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This marginal difference signifies that the Taichi switch offers a slightly deeper press, which might appeal to users who prefer a more substantial key feel. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro's shorter travel distance could enhance responsiveness, making it a strong choice for gamers seeking quicker actuation. Essentially, those who favor the tactile feedback of a longer travel distance may lean towards the Taichi, while those prioritizing speed and rapid response might opt for the V3 Piano Pro. Hence, the V3 Piano Pro is the shorter option at 3.5 mm, while the Bsun Taichi is the longer one at 3.6 mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
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 Piano Pro linear switch delivers a distinctive auditory experience characterized by a clacky and resonant quality. This switch produces a sharp and snappy sound with a crisp vibrancy that can make typing feel lively and engaging. The higher-pitched, immersive sound profile adds an extra layer of enjoyment to each keystroke. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi linear switch is known for its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, which similarly contributes to an elevated auditory experience. The combination of a long-pole design and extended springs results in a unique sound signature that also emphasizes clarity and brightness. While both switches aim for a more refined audio experience, the specific nuances might differ depending on the keyboard and keycaps used alongside them.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Piano Pro offers a delightful typing experience characterized by several rich descriptors: bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky. The lively bounciness provides a pleasant spring-like feedback, while the creamy texture enhances the overall smoothness of keystrokes, making for easy gliding with minimal resistance. The polished nature of the switch contributes to reduced friction, ensuring a sleek typing experience. Although the specific attributes of the Bsun Taichi switch are not detailed, its engineering, which includes a long-pole stem and a walled design, suggests a focus on smoothness and stability. This could indicate a similarly satisfying tactile feel, although more information would provide a clearer comparison.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Piano Pro and the Bsun Taichi linear switches are designed to deliver an enjoyable typing experience through their unique auditory and tactile qualities. The V3 Piano Pro stands out with its clacky, vibrant sound, and various descriptors showcasing a rich and smooth feel while typing. On the other hand, the Taichi is noted for its distinctive high-pitched sound and an emphasis on smoothness due to its construction. While preferences will vary based on individual needs, both switches are likely to offer satisfying auditory and tactile feedback, making them viable options in the mechanical keyboard landscape.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, consider your specific typing preferences and the kind of auditory experience you seek. The V3 Piano Pro, with its medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams and its lively, clacky sound profile, is ideal for those who enjoy a responsive and engaging typing experience. If you appreciate a combination of a bouncy and silky feel, along with a crisp acoustic feedback that adds vibrancy to each keystroke, the V3 Piano Pro would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are after a smooth, immersive typing experience and are enchanted by the high-pitched sound of long-pole switches—albeit not available in weight specifications—the Bsun Taichi could appeal to your preferences. Its design promotes unparalleled smoothness and stability, making it a solid option for users who prioritize a tranquil typing atmosphere without much auditory distraction. Ultimately, it depends on whether you value the more snappy and tactile engagement of the V3 Piano Pro or the exceptionally smooth and serene feel of the Taichi; each has unique qualities that cater to different styles of typing.
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