Bsun Akashi vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Bsun Akashi, a linear switch, and the Outemu Cream Blue, a clicky switch. The Akashi is renowned for its smooth tactile feedback, thanks to the unique combination of a UPE stem, POM top, and nylon bottom housing. This results in a distinctive sound profile, offering a bright and crisp bottom-out experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Cream Blue switch offers a different typing experience with its clicky sound feedback. While the Cream Blue switch does not have a specific standout feature like the Akashi, its clicky nature provides a satisfying auditory response with each press. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to 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
50g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
The housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and Outemu Cream Blue switches both utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softness and sound-absorbing qualities. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. However, the top housing of the Akashi is made of POM, which produces a unique and more muted sound profile compared to the Cream Blue's nylon top housing. The POM material creates a pleasing sound that is deeper and quieter, providing a different typing experience for users.
While both the Akashi and Cream Blue switches use nylon for their bottom housing, the top housing material differs between the two switches. This variation in housing materials affects the sound profile and feel of the switches when typing. The POM top housing of the Akashi creates a unique sound that is on the deeper and more muted side, while the Cream Blue's nylon top housing elicits a fuller and deeper sound profile. Despite the differences in top housing material, both switches offer a typing experience with a focus on sound quality and feel, providing users with a range of options based on their preferences.
In terms of construction, the housing materials of the Akashi and Cream Blue switches play a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switches. The split between bottom and top housing materials allows for a balanced typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings adds depth to the typing experience and gives users a variety of tactile feedback based on their typing habits and preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Akashi and Cream Blue switches comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch differ significantly. The Akashi has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Cream Blue's heavier actuation force of 50 grams. Similarly, the Akashi has a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Cream Blue has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Akashi switch would be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Cream Blue switch would be better suited for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the weight of a switch plays a crucial role in determining the typing experience and should be considered based on personal preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Akashi linear switch is 3.7 mm, while the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Cream Blue has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Akashi. The 3.7 mm distance of the Akashi falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it ideal for gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Cream Blue provides a more substantial keypress depth, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and keypress feel.
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 Cream Blue comes in at $3.10 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
The BSUN Akashi linear switch is distinctive for its unique sound profile, characterized by a bright, crisp bottom-out thanks to the long pole stem, and a deep acoustic richness due to the hybrid POM top and nylon bottom housing. This creates a resonant and satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch lacks specific sound descriptors provided in the information, making it challenging to directly compare the subjective qualities in this aspect. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used, so individual preferences may vary.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Akashi offers a range of descriptors including creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press. These qualities combine to provide a smooth and effortless typing experience, enhancing comfort and reducing finger fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, no specific feel descriptors are mentioned for the Cream Blue switch in the provided information, making it difficult to directly compare the tactile experience offered by this switch with the Akashi.
Overall, the BSUN Akashi linear switch stands out for its unique sound profile and smooth tactile feel, offering a resonant typing experience with minimal resistance and a satisfying bottom-out. While the specific subjective qualities of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch are not detailed in the information provided, it is important to consider individual preferences when selecting a switch for a mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches have their own characteristics that cater to different preferences, so experimenting with different options may help in finding the perfect fit for a personalized typing experience.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter actuation force, smooth keystrokes, and a resonant typing experience, the Akashi switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force and a clicky sound profile, the Cream Blue switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your desired typing experience and the specific features that align with your preferences.
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