Akko V3 Silver Pro vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Bsun Taichi stand out as two compelling options for enthusiasts and gamers alike, each offering unique characteristics to enhance the typing experience. The Akko V3 Silver Pro, designed with gamers in mind, features a light actuation force and a shortened travel distance, allowing for rapid key presses that can crucially cut down reaction times in gaming scenarios. Its creamy and feathery feedback combined with a pleasing bassy sound makes it a favorite among users seeking both performance and auditory satisfaction. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi switches charm users with their enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, complemented by a long-pole stem and extended springs that promise unparalleled smoothness and stability during use. While the V3 Silver Pro targets gamers with speed and precision, the Taichi focuses more on auditory feedback and a smooth typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
13.8mm spring
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Bsun Taichi both feature a top housing made of polycarbonate, which lends them similar acoustic characteristics. This material is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, largely due to its relatively stiff nature. The translucence of polycarbonate also plays a significant aesthetic role, particularly for those utilizing RGB lighting, as it allows for enhanced illumination effects. Thus, users of both switches can expect a bright and well-defined auditory response when pressing their keys, reinforcing that polycarbonate contributes a consistent quality across these two products.
In stark contrast to their top housings, both the V3 Silver Pro and the Taichi employ nylon for their bottom housing, delivering an entirely different auditory experience. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material choice means that the bottom-out sound and overall feel when keys are pressed will be rounded and less resonant compared to the sound produced by the polycarbonate tops. While the top housing contributes to a crisp sound during release, the nylon bottom helps to soften the impact, creating an overall balance between a sharp attack and a smooth return.
In conclusion, although both the Akko V3 Silver Pro and Bsun Taichi share similar materials for their top and bottom housings, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon results in a well-rounded acoustic experience. The use of polycarbonate on the top emphasizes clarity and brightness in sound, while the nylon bottom contributes depth and warmth. As a result, both switches offer users a unique balance of acoustics that merges crispness with fullness, ensuring a satisfying typing experience whether engaging in casual typing or competitive gaming.
Weight
The Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch share an identical actuation force of 40 grams, indicating they both require the same amount of pressure to register a keystroke. This similarity can contribute to a lighter typing experience, making the V3 Silver Pro suitable for extended use, whether at work or during gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force differs significantly; the V3 Silver Pro has a bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a slight resistance when the key is fully pressed, which some users may find satisfying as it offers tactile feedback. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Bsun Taichi switch remains unknown, leaving it uncertain how it might feel when pressed down completely. As it stands, the V3 Silver Pro is the lighter option overall due to its specified weights, while the Taichi's weight characteristics are undetermined.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Bsun Taichi linear switch has a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the V3 Silver Pro offers a shorter travel distance compared to the Taichi. For users who prioritize responsiveness, especially gamers looking for quicker reaction times, the Akko V3 Silver Pro would be the advantageous choice due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi, with its greater travel distance, may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on keys, as it provides a deeper and more pronounced actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to individual preferences regarding responsiveness versus depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
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
When comparing the sound profiles of the Akko V3 Silver Pro and Bsun Taichi linear switches, the V3 Silver Pro is characterized by a pleasing, bassy sound that enhances the gaming experience, providing a solid auditory feedback during key presses. This signature sound can create an immersive environment, especially in fast-paced gaming scenarios. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi switch exhibits a higher-pitched bottom-out sound, crafted to deliver a sharp and crisp auditory feedback. This high-pitched tone can be favored by users who appreciate a clearer and more pronounced sound profile, and while both switches cater to different acoustic preferences, the actual sound experience may vary depending on the keyboard build and keycap materials used.
In terms of tactile feel, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches excel with their light actuation force, making them incredibly easy to press. The combination of gentle resistance and smoothness provides a creamy and feathery typing experience, ensuring minimal finger fatigue during prolonged use. This switch allows for quick and efficient key presses, making it particularly suitable for gaming. Unfortunately, the tactile feel of the Bsun Taichi linear switch is not specified, leaving some uncertainty about how it would compare in terms of smoothness and overall typing experience.
Ultimately, choosing between the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Bsun Taichi linear switches hinges on individual preferences regarding sound and feel. Users who prefer a bassy sound with an effortless typing experience may gravitate toward the V3 Silver Pro, while those who favor a sharper auditory feedback might lean toward the Taichi. While the Taichi lacks specific descriptors regarding its feel, both switches are likely to deliver a smooth and satisfying typing experience in their own right, requiring users to consider their unique preferences to find their ideal switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch largely depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you're primarily a gamer or someone who values speed and efficiency, the V3 Silver Pro is the ideal choice for you. Its lightweight actuation force of 45 grams, coupled with a shortened travel distance, offers rapid response and reduces finger fatigue during intense gaming sessions. The delightful bassy sound complements its performance, creating an exhilarating experience as you glide from keystroke to keystroke. Conversely, if you're seeking a more soothing auditory experience and a switch that prioritizes smoothness and stability, the Bsun Taichi might cater better to your desires. Although detailed specifications were unavailable, the Taichi's design promises a unique long-pole stem and refined mechanics that enhance the typing experience, making it potentially perfect for those long typing sessions or for writers who appreciate a melodic bottom-out sound. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you prioritize speed and a light feel or prefer a calmer sound and enhanced smoothness in your typing experience.
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