Akko Botany vs. HMX Cloud - 50g

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Botany and the HMX Cloud - 50g are two standout linear switches that cater to different preferences, while both offering unique advantages. The Akko Botany switch is celebrated for its crisp, lively clacky sound, creating an engaging auditory typing experience that many users find appealing. In contrast, the HMX Cloud - 50g presents itself as a lighter variant, also boasting a clacky sound profile; it is specifically designed for enthusiasts who revel in a bright and smooth typing feel. While the Botany is ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced sound with each keystroke, the HMX Cloud - 50g offers a lighter touch for users seeking a silky-smooth experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and preferences.

By the numbers

Akko Botany Linear

HMX Cloud - 50g Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the Akko Botany and HMX Cloud - 50g switches share a commonality in their use of nylon for both the top and bottom housing, which contributes significantly to their acoustic properties and overall typing experience. As highlighted in their descriptions, nylon's softer composition allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is an essential factor for users who prioritize sound quality in their typing experience, and the consistency of housing materials in both models ensures that the resulting sound characteristics will be notably similar. Consequently, users can expect a typing experience that is rich and subdued, with the notable acoustic signature that nylon provides.

While the top and bottom housing materials of both switches are identical, the specific design and construction of the switches could lead to nuanced differences in feel and sound profile. For instance, the bottom housing plays a dominant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, meaning that even with the same nylon material, the physical geometry and tuning of each switch could impact how the sound is perceived upon releasing a key versus bottoming out. However, since both the Akko Botany and Cloud - 50g employ nylon throughout, they will inherently share the qualities that come from this material, ensuring a level of consistency in the acoustic properties and the user's tactile experience.

In summary, despite the potential for minor variations due to structural differences that may arise from the specific designs of the Akko Botany and HMX Cloud - 50g, the shared use of nylon as the primary material for both the top and bottom housings creates a foundation for similar performance across both switches. Typography enthusiasts can anticipate a relatively uniform sound profile characterized by depth and warmth, as well as a satisfying feel, regardless of the slight variances that may stem from non-material factors. As such, the overall experience of using either switch will resonate with users inclined toward a substantial, sound-enhanced typing environment.

Weight

The Akko Botany linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch exhibit interesting differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Botany switch has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it the lighter option overall. In contrast, the HMX Cloud switch requires a slightly higher actuation force of 42 grams and has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which categorizes it as the heavier choice. Both switches are considered light, but the Botany provides a softer feedback with lower force requirements, which can make it ideal for users seeking a more effortless typing experience suitable for extended use. Meanwhile, the Cloud switch, being heavier, offers a more substantial feel, which may appeal to those who prefer a firmer push when typing or gaming. Overall, if you value a lighter tactile experience, the Akko Botany is the optimal choice, while the HMX Cloud may be better suited for users who appreciate a stronger keystroke resistance.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Botany linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch, the Botany switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cloud - 50g offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.9 mm. This means that the Botany switch provides a shorter travel distance, which can appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more dynamic feel. In contrast, the Cloud - 50g's longer travel distance may cater to those who prefer a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes, providing a more traditional typing experience. Depending on individual preferences, choosing the shorter Botany switch could lead to greater responsiveness, while the longer travel of the Cloud - 50g might be more satisfying for users who enjoy a deeper key press.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Akko Botany linear switch is renowned for its crisp and lively clacky sound, making it an engaging choice for typists who appreciate auditory feedback. This sound signature contributes to a bright typing experience, creating a delightful acoustic that many find satisfying. In comparison, the HMX Cloud - 50g also offers a clacky sound profile, but it does so in a slightly lighter manner, enhancing the feeling of a bright typist's atmosphere. Both switches share this engaging sound characteristic, allowing users to find joy in the audible feedback during their typing sessions. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that the overall sound experience can vary significantly depending on the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps.

When it comes to feel, the Botany switch provides a unique experience that complements its sound. Its structure contributes to a responsive and smooth keystroke, offering a tactile sensation that typists can appreciate. On the other hand, the HMX Cloud - 50g is praised for its silky smooth feel, which enhances the flow of typing. Both switches emphasize a smooth typing experience, but the Botany may present a slightly more engaging tactile quality that is distinct from the Cloud's buttery performance. These nuanced differences allow typists to choose a switch that aligns with their personal preferences, whether they lean towards a lively touch or a silky glide in their keystrokes.

Overall, both the Akko Botany and HMX Cloud - 50g linear switches cater to those who enjoy a vibrant, clacky sound and a pleasant typing experience. While the Botany offers a more pronounced auditory engagement, the Cloud - 50g provides an equally enjoyable but lighter sound, combined with its silky feel. Depending on personal preference, enthusiasts can find joy in either switch, ensuring a rewarding typing experience characterized by pleasing sound and tactile response.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Akko Botany linear switch and the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch, consider what matters most to you in your typing experience. If you appreciate a lighter touch and a lively, crisp sound, the Botany switch is an excellent choice; its 45-gram bottom-out force makes it feel less resistant, perfect for those who want to type quickly without much effort. This switch can invigorate your typing sessions with its unique clacky sound profile straight out of the box, which can add a playful element to both work and gaming environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer feel and want to experience a smooth, silky typing sensation—with a bit more resistance—then the HMX Cloud - 50g is the way to go. Its 50-gram bottom-out force provides a bit more substance and tactile feedback, which can be particularly appealing during longer typing sessions. This switch maintains a bright clacky sound that can satisfy enthusiasts looking for a euphoric auditory experience. Ultimately, your preference will hinge on the balance between sound profile, feeling of resistance, and what enhances your overall keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Botany Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more

HMX Cloud - 50g Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more