Akko Botany vs. Kailh Box White V2

Overview

When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Botany and the Kailh Box White V2 offer two distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Akko Botany switch, recognized for its lively clacky sound and smooth linear action, appeals to users who enjoy a quieter typing experience with a fluid keystroke that enhances speed and efficiency. On the other hand, the Kailh Box White V2, celebrated for its crisp tactile feedback and pronounced click sound, provides a more traditional typing experience that many typists and gamers cherish for its satisfying auditory response and tactile confirmation. While the Botany switch is ideal for those seeking a subtle yet responsive feel, the Box White V2 is perfect for users who thrive on the sensory experience offered by its audible clicks. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Akko Botany Linear

Kailh Box White V2 Clicky

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

$3.50

$3.00 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Akko Botany and the Kailh Box White V2 switches present a compelling contrast in their housing materials, particularly in their top housings. The Botany features a nylon top housing, known for its softer texture, which tends to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic allows for a more muted acoustic experience when typing, making it ideal for users seeking a quieter environment. In contrast, the Box White V2 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances the aesthetic appeal of the switch, especially for those who use RGB lighting, creating a vivid glow that nylon cannot replicate.

Despite the differences in top housing materials, both switches share nylon as their bottom housing material. The Botany and the Box White V2 both harness nylon’s qualities to deliver a similar auditory experience through their bottoms. With both switches featuring classic nylon at their cores, users can expect a consistent deeper and fuller sound during key presses. The nylon bottom not only enhances the overall sound profile but also contributes to the tactile feel of the switches, allowing for an enjoyable typing experience regardless of the top housing.

The varying materials in the top housings lead to distinct sound profiles upon key presses and releases, further illustrating how these differences manifest in user experience. While the bottom housing provides a rich, muted sound, the top housing determines the clarity and resonance during release. Thus, the Akko Botany gives a more subdued sound signature, contrasting sharply with the crisp, resonant feedback of the Kailh Box White V2. Ultimately, while both switches offer a tactile satisfaction through their use of nylon in the bottom housing, the contrasting materials used in their top housings allow for a wide range of auditory experiences tailored to individual user preferences.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch to the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch, we see notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Botany switch features an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it the lighter option overall. In contrast, the Box White V2 has a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which gives it a heavier feel. This means that users who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Botany, whereas those who favor a more substantial typing experience might prefer the Box White V2. Although both switches are categorized as light, the Botany allows for a softer touch, whereas the Box White V2 offers a firmer press. Thus, their contrasting forces could lead to different user experiences based on individual preferences.

Travel distance

Both the Akko Botany linear switch and the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which means that users can expect a similar keypress feel when using either switch. This equal distance indicates that both switches will register a keypress at the same depth, allowing for a consistent typing experience in terms of travel. While the Botany is known for its smooth linear action, the Box White V2 is characterized by a tactile and audible click; however, in terms of travel distance, they are equal, providing a common feature that may appeal to users looking for this specific aspect in their switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Akko Botany linear switch is characterized by its crisp and lively clack, providing an engaging auditory experience as you type. This makes the switch enjoyable for both the user and those in proximity, delivering an energetic ambiance that many find appealing. In contrast, the Kailh Box White V2 offers a distinct clicky sound accompanied by tactile feedback, creating a noticeable and satisfying auditory cue with each keystroke. Both switches produce prominent and enjoyable sounds, but the Botany leans towards a lively clack, while the Box White V2 emphasizes a sharper click, making each one stand out in its own right.

Regarding the feel of each switch, the Akko Botany linear switch provides a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, allowing for swift and fluid typing without any tactile bumps or resistance. This linear characteristic appeals greatly to those who prefer a more minimalist experience while typing, facilitating rapid key presses. On the other hand, the Kailh Box White V2 switch is defined by its tactile feedback, ensuring that users feel a pronounced bump at the actuation point. This tactile sensation not only enhances typing accuracy but also delivers a rewarding experience for those who enjoy a more interactive and engaging keystroke. Therefore, while the Botany focus on smoothness, the Box White V2 makes its mark with tactile engagement.

In summary, both the Akko Botany linear and Kailh Box White V2 clicky switches offer unique sensory experiences tailored for different preferences. The Botany standout in producing a lively clack, ideal for those who appreciate a vibrant soundscape, while the Box White V2 provides a sharp click alongside tactile feedback, appealing to those who favor a more interactive typing feel. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize sound quality or tactile sensation in your mechanical keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a lighter actuation force with a smooth, linear feel that allows for rapid key presses without resistance, the Botany switch could be your ideal option, particularly if you appreciate a crisp, lively sound that adds character to your typing experience. This makes it well-suited for gaming sessions or extensive typing when you desire speed and a quieter environment. On the other hand, if you thrive on tactile feedback and enjoy the audible click that accompanies your keystrokes, then the Kailh Box White V2 would be a better fit. With its slightly heavier bottom-out force, the Box White V2 provides a satisfying tactile bump and pronounced sound, making it particularly appealing for typists who enjoy a more traditional mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by whether you prioritize sound and tactile feedback or a smoother, linear experience.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Botany Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more

Kailh Box White V2 Clicky

$3.50

$3.00 per 10

Learn more