Akko Botany vs. Gateron CJ

Overview

When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Botany and Gateron CJ both offer unique characteristics that appeal to different typing preferences. The Akko Botany switch is celebrated for its lively, crisp sound, giving each keystroke an engaging auditory feedback that can enhance the typing experience, particularly for those who appreciate a tactile audio cue. On the other hand, the Gateron CJ switch presents a smooth and enjoyable linear experience characterized by higher-pitched clacks, providing a distinct auditory signature that still retains the silence often sought in linear switches. While the Botany is noted for its vibrant sound profile, the CJ is recognized for its silky actuation and neutral feedback, catering to typists who prioritize feel over sound. Ultimately, both switches offer compelling reasons for selection, but it's essential to consider specific preferences and use cases. 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 CJ Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Botany and Gateron CJ switches, one can observe distinct characteristics that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Akko Botany utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings. Nylon is known for its softer properties, which help absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller acoustic experience when typing. This choice of material creates a more muted and rounded sound that is generally more pleasant for users who prefer an understated auditory feedback during typing. In contrast, the Gateron CJ features a proprietary INK blend material for its top housing, which delivers a higher-pitched, clacky sound profile. This difference in the top housing material plays a crucial role, as it influences the sound produced when releasing a key, setting the CJ apart from the Botany's more subdued sound.

The bottom housing of both switches also showcases a divergence in their materials. While the Botany maintains the use of nylon for its bottom housing, providing a harmonious and cohesive sound profile across both housings, the Gateron CJ opts for POM as its bottom housing material. POM, known for its durability and distinct acoustic properties, creates a unique, deeper sound that is more muted. This results in the CJ exhibiting a blend of a higher-pitched sound during key release (due to the INK blend top) while still anchoring that sound with a deeper tonal quality contributed by the POM bottom. Therefore, while the Botany's nylon both dampens and deepens sounds consistently between the two housing components, the CJ delivers a nuanced auditory experience that balances the characteristics from both the top and bottom materials.

Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the Akko Botany and Gateron CJ affect not just the typing experience but also the overall sound that each switch produces. Users seeking a consistent, deep sound profile might gravitate towards the Botany, with its cohesive nylon construction, while those who enjoy a mix of higher-pitched sounds complemented by a deeper undertone might prefer the CJ. If aiming to achieve a similar acoustic experience, one could adjust their typing technique or the type of keycap used, as these factors interplay significantly with the switch's housing characteristics. For instance, using softer keycaps with the CJ may help replicate some of the dampening qualities found in the Botany, creating a more rounded sound that can bridge the gap between the two distinctly engineered switch experiences.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron CJ linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Botany switch features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Gateron CJ has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. This discrepancy means that those who opt for the Botany switch will experience a gentler keystroke, while the CJ switch will provide a firmer resistance, making it better suited for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Thus, the Botany is overall lighter, while the CJ is heavier, catering to different preferences in user experience.

Travel distance

The Akko Botany linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron CJ linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Botany the shorter option, appealing to those who favor quicker response times, such as gamers who often seek faster actuation. Conversely, the Gateron CJ, with its 4 mm travel distance, provides a more traditional feel that some users might prefer due to its greater depth, allowing for a less abrupt keystroke experience. Ultimately, if you opt for the Botany switch, you can expect a more responsive feel, whereas the CJ switch caters to those who appreciate a more substantial keypress.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Akko Botany linear switch stands out with a crisp and lively clacky sound that can catch the attention of those around you right from the start. These vibrant acoustics provide an engaging auditory experience, making typing feel more dynamic. On the other hand, the Gateron CJ linear switch offers a unique tonal signature that combines higher-pitched clacks with a smooth operation. The CJ's sound can be described as chirpy, incorporating a subtle squeak that distinguishes it from more conventional linear switches, lending a distinct character to each keystroke. This combination of chirpy and low-pitched elements gives the CJ an intriguing sound profile that appeals to users looking for a novel acoustic experience.

When it comes to feel, the Botany switches provide a tactile experience that can be considered lively, although specifics about their exact characteristics are not mentioned. In contrast, the Gateron CJ linear switch is characterized by its mild feel. This means that the CJ offers a gentle typing experience that is approachable for all users, whether novice or experienced. The smooth push feel of the CJ promotes effortless key presses, allowing for prolonged typing sessions without fatigue, while the Botany's feel remains unspecified yet promising.

In summary, while both the Akko Botany and Gateron CJ linear switches bring their distinctive qualities to the table, they cater to slightly different preferences in sound and feel. The Botany offers a vibrant auditory experience with lively clacks, whereas the CJ excels in providing a unique chirpy sound alongside a smooth and mild feel. Choosing between them will ultimately depend on whether you prioritize an engaging sound profile or a gentle typing experience, and either switch will deliver satisfying results based on your preferences and setup.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Akko Botany and the Gateron CJ linear switches ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing style. If you gravitate towards lighter switches and enjoy a lively auditory experience with a crisp and clacky sound, the Botany might be your best bet. Its 45-gram bottom-out force means it requires less effort for actuation, making it a suitable option for prolonged typing sessions or gaming where quick key presses matter. Conversely, if you prefer a slightly heavier feel with a more rounded, smooth push, the Gateron CJ would be the way to go. Its 60-gram force coupled with a unique chirpy sound profile makes for an engaging typing experience, while the thocky undertones provide a satisfying depth that many enthusiasts appreciate. Additionally, the CJ's mild characteristics position it as an excellent all-purpose switch, perfect for both work and casual gaming environments. Ultimately, consider what aspects of sound and feel are most important to you, and choose accordingly to enhance your keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Botany Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more

Gateron CJ Linear

$6.00

$5.35 per 10

Learn more