Akko Botany vs. Gateron CM
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the Gateron CM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves debating between options that cater to their unique preferences. The Akko Botany switches are celebrated for their vibrant, clacky sound profile, making them a delightful choice for those who enjoy a lively auditory experience while typing. As a linear switch, the Botany provides a smooth keystroke without tactile feedback, which suits users who prioritize a consistent and uninterrupted typing experience. On the other hand, Gateron CM switches break the mold with their full nylon housing, contributing to a rich, deeper sound that stands out among linear switches. These switches not only feature an exceptional factory lube job for a silky-smooth feel but also utilize a dual-staged spring that ensures a bouncier typing sensation, making them ideal for those seeking a blend of comfort and responsiveness. While both the Botany and CM switches offer smooth keystrokes, they cater to different preferences in sound and feedback, encouraging users to carefully consider their own typing style. 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
38g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon Pro
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Botany and the Gateron CM switches, it's important to highlight that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This common choice in material results in a remarkably similar sound and feel profile when typing. Both switches provide a deeper and fuller acoustic experience due to nylon's properties as a softer plastic. This softness allows the switches to absorb more sound energy compared to harder plastics, yielding a duller and rounder sound that many typists find appealing. Therefore, users can expect a consistent auditory experience from both switches, primarily characterized by their nylon housings.
Despite both switches being constructed from the same material, there are inherent differences in how the characteristics of the housings may influence the overall feel and sound of the switches. The nuances in design and manufacturing processes can lead to variations in bottom-out feel and sound signature, even with identical materials. While both switches will deliver a similar deeper sound profile when typing, variations in the mold or internal structure, for example, may affect the tactile feedback users experience. Consequently, users might appreciate slight differences when comparing the two, adding a unique element to their typing experience despite the foundational similarities.
Overall, the shared use of nylon in both the Akko Botany and Gateron CM switches prepares users for a comparable acoustic performance, but the potential differences in design may lead to a distinct typing experience. It’s essential for users to consider these factors when selecting a switch, as the desired feel and sound could hinge on subtle variations in how the nylon material is utilized within each housing. Ultimately, while both switches promise a soothing and rich sound profile characteristic of nylon, personal preferences among typists may lead them to favor one over the other based on these nuanced distinctions in design and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron CM 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 an excellent choice for those who prefer a softer touch, especially during extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Gateron CM switch has a notably heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, catering to users who enjoy a more substantial keystroke feel. This difference indicates that the Akko Botany is better suited for users who prioritize comfort and reduced fatigue, while the Gateron CM appeals to those who seek a firmer typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preferences for lighter versus heavier keystrokes.
Travel distance
Both the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron CM linear switch have an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that the distance each switch travels from the top to the bottom is the same. As a result, users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. This equivalence in travel distance ensures that both switches will deliver a comparable level of responsiveness and actuation, offering a consistent feel for any typing or gaming activity.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko Botany has an MSRP of $3.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Botany for $3.11.
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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 sound profile of the Akko Botany switch is characterized by its crisp and lively clacky tone, which is engaging and pronounced, offering an enjoyable auditory feedback for typists who appreciate a more vibrant sound. In contrast, the Gateron CM switch provides a much deeper and richer audio experience, described as bassy and thocky. This switch’s full nylon housing lends to a low-pitched sound reminiscent of a deep "thud" or satisfying "knock," which is further enhanced by its impeccable factory lubrication. Consequently, while both switches offer distinct experiences, the Botany provides a brighter auditory element, whereas the CM prioritizes a thicker and bass-heavy sound.
When it comes to feel, the Botany switches are noted for their smoothness, although specific descriptive quality is missing. On the other hand, Gateron CM switches shine with their buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless characteristics. The combination of a seamless keystroke experience and a silky typing sensation makes the CM exceptionally appealing for those who prefer an effortless typing journey. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, but the CM's refined quality lends itself to a more luxurious tactile sensation.
In conclusion, the Akko Botany and Gateron CM linear switches provide two unique experiences through their respective sound profiles and tactile feedback. The Botany is more geared towards those who enjoy a lively, clacky sound, while the CM caters to users who appreciate a deep, rich auditory signature paired with a silky-smooth typing feel. Although both switches promise satisfying outcomes, the choice largely depends on personal preference in auditory feedback and tactile sensations.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron CM linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and needs. If you prefer a lighter switch that offers a crisp, lively sound, then the Botany is the way to go. With its 45-gram bottom out force, it is ideal for fast typists who enjoy a responsive feel without excessive weight. The lively clacky sound adds a playful element to your typing, making it a great choice for those who appreciate an auditory feedback without straying too far into the clatter of tactile switches. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a richer, deeper sound and a slightly heavier typing experience, the Gateron CM linear switch would suit you better. With its 63.5-gram bottom out force, complemented by a bold nylon housing and impeccable factory lube, the CM switch promises a buttery, polished feel that glides effortlessly from key to key. This makes it perfect for users who enjoy a luxurious typing sensation and a more thocky sound profile. In essence, your choice should reflect not just the physical sensation of the switch but also the auditory experience you desire from your keyboard.
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