Bsun Akashi vs. Gateron Ink Black V2
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron Ink Black V2 mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches known for their smooth keystrokes. The Akashi stands out for its unique design featuring a UPE stem, POM top, and nylon bottom housing, providing a distinct sound contrast with each key press. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 is praised for its classic linear switch feel, offering a smooth downstroke and rich clack that has made it a favorite in the keyboard community. While the Akashi is described as 'clacky', 'creamy', and 'snappy', the Ink Black V2 is characterized as 'low-pitched', 'bassy', and 'polished'. Both switches have their own merits, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron Ink Black V2, we see significant differences in the sound profiles they produce. The Akashi's POM top housing creates a deeper and muted sound, while the Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend top housing results in a pointed, high-pitched, and clacky sound. This contrast showcases how the choice of housing material can greatly impact the overall typing experience and sound feedback of a switch.
Similarly, the variation in bottom housing materials between the Akashi and the Ink Black V2 further contributes to the distinct sound profiles of each switch. The Akashi's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound, emphasizing its characteristics of being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In comparison, the proprietary INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Black V2 maintains its clacky and higher-pitched sound profile. These differences in housing materials demonstrate how manufacturers can tailor the sound and feel of a switch through careful selection of materials.
Overall, the housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Gateron Ink Black V2 play a crucial role in shaping the typing experience for users. While the Akashi offers a more subdued and deep sound profile due to its POM and nylon housing, the Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend housing creates a sharper and clacky sound. Despite their differences, both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in achieving specific sound profiles and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams compared to the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Akashi make it ideal for those who prefer a softer typing experience, allowing for longer typing periods without fatigue. In contrast, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Ink Black V2 provide a more substantial typing feel, suitable for users who prefer a stronger push sensation. Overall, the Akashi offers a lighter typing experience, while the Ink Black V2 offers a more intense and tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, which is shorter than the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch's travel distance of 4 mm. The Akashi's shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the Ink Black V2's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feeling when typing. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, with the Akashi being slightly shorter and the Ink Black V2 being slightly longer than the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and responsiveness.
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 Gateron Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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 Akashi linear switch offers a clacky and resonant experience with each keystroke, producing a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch provides a low-pitched and bassy sound profile with a hint of chirpiness, resulting in a deeper and richer tone during key presses. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the Akashi leans towards a brighter and crisper sound, while the Ink Black V2 provides a mellower and deeper tone.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Akashi switch is praised for its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press typing experience. These switches offer a smooth and buttery sensation with minimal resistance, resulting in a fluid and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentler typing experience that falls into a safe middle-ground zone. Both switches prioritize smoothness and comfort; however, the Akashi provides a more varied and responsive feel compared to the Ink Black V2's more consistent and approachable typing experience.
In conclusion, while both the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offer unique sound and feel profiles, they cater to different preferences. The Akashi provides a bright, crisp, and resonant sound experience coupled with a creamy, polished, and snappy typing feel, appealing to users who prioritize tactile feedback and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 offers a low-pitched, bassy sound with a mild and polished typing feel, suitable for those seeking a smoother and more consistent typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. If you prioritize a light bottom out force and a unique tactile experience with a resonant sound profile, then the Akashi switch with its creamy, frictionless, and polished feel may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a classic, smooth downstroke with a rich clack sound, then the Ink Black V2 switch with its mild and polished feel might better suit your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what characteristics and typing experience you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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