Bsun Akashi vs. Outemu Lime
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Outemu Lime switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, it becomes evident that both offer distinct advantages for different types of users. The Akashi switch is renowned for its smoothness and unique sound profile, thanks to the UPE stem and hybrid housing combination. With a bright, crisp bottom-out and resonant experience, these linear switches cater to those who seek a polished and snappy typing sensation. On the other hand, the Lime switch stands out for its lightweight nature, approachable tactility, and silenced operation. Ideal for tactile enthusiasts looking for a feathery light typing experience, the Lime switch offers a subtle and muted 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
37g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Outemu Lime, we can see that both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material means that both the Akashi and Lime switches will likely provide a satisfying typing experience with a focus on rich sound output when pressed.
However, when it comes to the top housing, the Akashi features a POM top housing, which creates a unique and pleasing sound profile that is relatively more muted and on the deeper side. In contrast, the Lime utilizes a nylon top housing that also elicits a deep and fuller sound profile but with a slightly duller and rounder sound. This difference in top housing material may result in a subtle variation in sound and typing experience between the two switches, with the Akashi offering a potentially more distinctive sound compared to the Lime.
Overall, the choice between the Bsun Akashi and Outemu Lime will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. While both switches share similarities in utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, the differing top housing materials may offer unique characteristics that cater to individual preferences. Whether you prefer the muted and deeper sound of the Akashi's POM top housing or the slightly duller and rounder sound of the Lime's nylon top housing, both switches are likely to provide a satisfying typing experience with their distinct sound profiles.
Weight
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Outemu Lime tactile switch has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Both switches fall on the lighter side in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Akashi is slightly heavier than the Lime when it comes to both actuation and bottom out forces, but the difference is minimal. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, either of these switches would be a good choice. The slight variation in forces between the two switches may not make a noticeable difference in feel, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference for a slightly lighter or heavier touch.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Outemu Lime tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Akashi has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lime. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for faster response times. However, if you prefer a slightly deeper key press, you may find the Akashi to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of the travel distance that feels most comfortable and responsive to you.
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 Outemu Lime comes in at $3.40 per 10 switches.
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 and percussive noise that provides a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This creates a bright and crisp bottom-out sound, enhanced by the unique design of the UPE stem and hybrid housing. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime tactile switch is described as having a more neutral and muted sound profile, making it suitable for various environments due to its softer and quieter sound. Overall, if sound is a crucial factor for you, the Akashi will offer a more resonant and pronounced audible experience, while the Lime will provide a quieter and more subdued typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Akashi is praised for its creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience. With attributes like silky smoothness and snappy responsiveness, these linear switches offer a luxurious and effortless typing feel. On the contrary, the Lime tactile switch provides a mild and feathery typing experience, with subtle resistance and polished smoothness. Despite being lightweight and gentle to press, these switches still offer a pleasant tactile feedback suitable for extended typing sessions. Depending on your preference, the Akashi will give you a more refined and buttery typing sensation, while the Lime will provide a comfortable and light touch typing experience.
Taking into consideration the sound and feel of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, it is evident that they offer distinct qualities to cater to different preferences. If you prioritize a crisp and bright sound with a smooth and responsive typing feel, the Akashi would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter and more approachable typing sound with a gentle and light touch feel, the Lime switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches ensure a pleasant typing experience, albeit with varying degrees of sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a light bottom out force and a unique tactile experience, the Bsun Akashi would be a great choice. It offers a smooth and resonant typing experience with a distinctive sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a light bottom out force that is also silenced, the Outemu Lime switches would be ideal. They provide a feathery light typing experience with just a touch of tactility, making them perfect for those who enjoy a gentle typing feel with reduced noise. Ultimately, your decision between the Akashi and Lime switches should be based on whether you prioritize a unique tactile feedback with a bright sound or a subtly tactile and silenced typing experience. Consider your preferences in sound and feel to determine which switch would best suit your typing style and preferences.
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