Akko Botany vs. Gateron Box CJ

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Botany and the Gateron Box CJ present two compelling yet distinct options for users seeking a linear typing experience. The Akko Botany is celebrated for its vibrant clacky sound profile, delivering a lively auditory experience right out of the box, which appeals to those who enjoy a more tactile feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Box CJ combines the beloved characteristics of the CJ lineage with the rapid responsiveness typical of speed switches, catering to typists who prioritize quick execution and seamless keystrokes. Users of the CJ will find themselves treated to a higher-pitched clack, along with an exceptionally smooth push feel that’s unlubed, providing a raw sensation or a blank canvas for enthusiasts eager to fine-tune their switches. While both switches shine in their own right, they each serve different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Akko Botany Linear

Gateron Box CJ Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the Akko Botany and the Gateron Box CJ switches, the most notable difference lies in the materials used for their top housings. The Botany utilizes nylon for its top housing, which inherently creates a deeper and fuller sound profile owing to nylon's softer plastic composition. This softness allows the material to absorb sound waves, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Box CJ features a polycarbonate top housing that gives rise to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate contributes to a more pronounced and resonant sound quality, which can be particularly appealing to users who prefer a more acute auditory feedback.

However, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing material, which is nylon for both the Botany and the Box CJ. This means that regardless of the contrast in sound profiles at the top, the deeper and fuller sound quality resulting from the nylon bottom housing will be a consistent trait found in both switches. In terms of overall acoustics when typing, this shared nylon material at the bottom will ensure a similar foundation for sound production, with both switches exhibiting the characteristic warmth and thickness that one would expect from nylon. Therefore, while the top two housings deliver contrasting auditory experiences, the bottom housing unifies them with a complementary sound signature.

The interaction between the different housing materials further illustrates the importance of structure in a switch’s performance. Since the top housing significantly influences the sound produced when releasing a key, those who favor the characteristics of the Botany may enjoy the muted tones, while those who opt for the Box CJ can appreciate the crisper sounds derived from its polycarbonate build. Ultimately, the user experience will heavily be affected by the preference for either softer or harder sound profiles, while both switches will still maintain a sense of depth and fullness due to their nylon bottom housings. This interplay highlights how varying materials can uniquely shape a typing experience while retaining core qualities across different switch designs.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch with the Gateron Box CJ linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Botany switch features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer less resistance, especially during prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Box CJ has a medium-light actuation force of 45 grams, with a bottom out force of 57 grams, indicating a heftier feel that some typists might find satisfying for a more substantial typing experience. Therefore, those who favor a lighter touch should gravitate towards the Botany, while those who enjoy a firmer push may opt for the Box CJ. Overall, while both switches offer distinct characteristics tailored to different user preferences, the Akko Botany is the lighter option and the Gateron Box CJ is the heavier one, which can significantly influence the typing experience.

Travel distance

The Akko Botany linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Box CJ provides a more substantial depth, which can be appealing to users who appreciate a fuller keypress and a more pronounced tactile feedback. In contrast, the Botany's shorter 3.6 mm travel distance caters to those who favor quicker response times, making it an ideal choice for gamers looking for a more rapid actuation. Ultimately, if you prefer a more responsive feel, the Botany is the better option due to its shallower travel distance, while the Box CJ might be more suitable for users who enjoy the deeper, more robust sensation of a longer travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In the realm of sound, the Akko Botany switches deliver a vibrant, lively clack that elevates the auditory experience of typing. These switches are characterized by their crispness and clarity, producing a percussive sound that can add an element of joy to every keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Box CJ switches are known for their higher-pitched clacks, offering a unique blend of sharpness and brightness that typists might find engaging. Additionally, the Box CJ's sound profile can be described as chirpy, featuring a subtle squeak that sets it apart. Both switches cater to those who appreciate distinctly audible feedback, though the nuances in their sound can depend heavily on the keyboard build and keycap choice.

When it comes to feel, the Botany switches have a reputation for providing a satisfying typing experience, although specific details about their tactile quality aren't given. In contrast, the Gateron Box CJ switches offer a smooth gliding sensation with a mild push feel. This mildness means that while they deliver a gentle typing experience, they don’t overwhelm the user with excessive feedback. The smoothness is both a hallmark of their design and a blank canvas, allowing enthusiasts the freedom to customize the feel further through lubrication. The result is that each switch offers an approachable experience, suitable for users ranging from beginners to more experienced typists.

Overall, both the Akko Botany and Gateron Box CJ linear switches present compelling options for keyboard enthusiasts. The Botany switches cater to those seeking a crisp auditory experience, while the Box CJ provides a delightful chirp with higher-pitched clacks, both offering engaging and distinctive sound profiles. In terms of feel, the Botany provides satisfaction, while the Box CJ leans towards a gentle and smooth typing experience. While they have their differences, both switches aim for a pleasant typing journey and are bound to please users looking for quality linear switches.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron Box CJ linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended usage. If you prefer a lighter feel with a more lively and crisp clacky sound, the Botany switch, with its bottom-out force of just 45 grams, may be the perfect choice for you. It's especially suited for those who enjoy a bright auditory feedback while typing, making it ideal for casual users or gamers seeking a responsive and engaging experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize smoothness and a slightly higher actuation force, the Box CJ is a great option, coming in at 57 grams. This switch not only offers rapid response characteristics suitable for competitive typing but also provides a unique acoustic profile that combines mild chirpiness with the efficient sound of higher-pitched clacks. Ultimately, if you are looking for a more customizable experience with lubrication potential, the Box CJ may appeal to enthusiasts wanting to fine-tune their setup. In summary, your choice should reflect whether you want an effortlessly lively switch like the Botany or a swift and smooth experience with the Gateron Box CJ.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Botany Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Box CJ Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

Learn more