Bsun Akashi vs. Bsun Pine
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Bsun Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Bsun Akashi and the Bsun Pine mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference in typing experience. On one hand, the Akashi linear switch stands out for its smooth UPE stem and hybrid housing design, providing a unique sound profile with a crisp bottom-out. It's categorized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Silky', making it a great choice for those who enjoy a resonant and easy-to-press keystroke. On the other hand, the Pine tactile switch offers a sharp tactile bump and fast action, categorized as 'Accented' and 'Snappy', appealing to users who prefer direct and invigorating tactility. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Akashi and Bsun Pine both utilize different housing materials for the top and bottom of the switch. The Akashi features a POM top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Pine boasts a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The POM top housing of the Akashi creates a deep and muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Pine produces a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches benefit from the nylon bottom housing, which absorbs sound and contributes to a fuller sound profile. Despite the difference in top housing materials, the switches will still provide a satisfying typing experience due to their shared nylon bottom housing.
In terms of sound profiles, the Bsun Akashi and Bsun Pine offer contrasting experiences due to their differing housing materials. The POM top housing of the Akashi creates a more muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Pine produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a deep and full sound profile. The Akashi and Pine showcase how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience, with each material bringing its own unique sound characteristics to the table.
While the top housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and Bsun Pine offer distinct sound profiles, their shared nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of both switches absorbs sound and creates a fuller sound profile, regardless of the differences in top housing materials. The impact of the bottom housing is felt when pressing down on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing plays a greater role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite their differences, the Akashi and Pine showcase the importance of housing materials in delivering a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Bsun Pine tactile switch, it is evident that the Akashi is the lighter option with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. In contrast, the Pine is the heavier option with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The Akashi provides a lighter typing experience, ideal for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Pine offers a more substantial typing feel, suitable for users who prefer a stronger push when typing. Both switches provide unique experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences. While the Akashi is lighter overall, and the Pine is heavier, both switches can deliver similar results depending on the user's typing style and preference for force feedback.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Akashi has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Pine. If you are looking for a switch with a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Pine would be the better option. However, if you prefer a switch with a bit more depth and feedback, the Akashi would be the way to go. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and what feels more comfortable to the individual user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Akashi has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Akashi for $3.70.
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
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 Akashi linear switch is known for its clacky nature, producing a sharp and snappy sound with each key press. This sound is described as crisp, bright, and percussive, adding a satisfying auditory feedback to typing. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Bsun Pine tactile switch is not specified, so it is best to assume that it may produce a different sound compared to the Akashi.
Moving on to feel, the Bsun Akashi linear switch offers a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press typing experience. This combination of descriptors suggests that using the Akashi switch feels smooth, effortless, and responsive, minimizing resistance and enhancing typing comfort. In contrast, the Bsun Pine tactile switch is described as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, providing pronounced feedback, a strong tactile bump, and reactive feel. This indicates that while typing on the Pine switch, users can expect a prominent tactile response with a satisfying click.
In conclusion, the Bsun Akashi linear switch stands out for its unique sound profile, offering a clacky and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Pine tactile switch excels in providing a sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, appealing to users who prefer direct and no-nonsense tactility. Both switches offer distinctive qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them will ultimately depend on individual typing preferences and priorities. However, if you are looking for a smooth and responsive typing experience, either switch will provide similar satisfying results.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the BSUN Akashi linear switch and the BSUN Pine tactile switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a smooth and resonant keystroke with a light actuation force, the Akashi linear switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharp tactile bump and a medium-heavy actuation force that provides direct and invigorating feedback, the Pine tactile switch is worth considering. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a creamy and clacky typing experience or a sharp and snappy tactile feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to choose the one that aligns best with your individual preferences and needs.
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