Akko Botany vs. HMX EMO

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Akko Botany and the HMX EMO can significantly shape your typing experience. The Akko Botany switches are celebrated for their crisp and lively clacky sound right out of the box, making them an appealing option for those who appreciate an auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the HMX EMO switch provides a feather-light feel with a bottom-out force of just 46g, offering an effortless, bouncy typing experience that some users find both satisfying and smooth. While the Botany might entice gamers and typists who thrive on auditory cues, the EMO could be better suited for individuals who prioritize a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Akko Botany Linear

HMX EMO Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

$3.49

$2.79 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Botany and the HMX EMO switches, a distinct difference can be observed in their top housing components. The Akko Botany utilizes nylon for its top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic structure. This characteristic allows for sound absorption, leading to a more muted and rounder audio experience when typing. In contrast, the HMX EMO features a polycarbonate top housing, which is considerably stiffer and results in a sharper, crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate enhances resonance, making it more conducive to producing high-pitched sounds. Thus, the two switches exhibit contrasting sound qualities due to the differing top housing materials.

In terms of bottom housing, both the Akko Botany and the HMX EMO utilize nylon, resulting in similar sound profiles and tactile feedback at the point of actuation. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound—an auditory feature prevalent in both switches. Since both switches share this commonality in bottom housing, users can expect comparable bottom-out sound and feel when keys are pressed. The use of nylon in this component ensures a consistent experience across both models, regardless of the disparities found in their top housing materials.

Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in each switch leads to a unique overall typing experience. While the Akko Botany's nylon top housing creates a deeper sound profile, the HMX EMO’s polycarbonate top showcases a brighter and crisper audio. Nevertheless, the shared nylon bottom housing effectively balances the impact of both systems, as it focuses on delivering similar sound and acoustic qualities upon key depression. Therefore, while the switches differ significantly in their top housing compositions, the harmonious use of nylon in both designs ensures that users will achieve an enjoyable and rich typing experience, regardless of the model chosen.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the HMX EMO linear switch, both switches exhibit relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable choices for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. The Botany has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the EMO has slightly higher values with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams. This means the Botany switch is the lighter option overall, which can facilitate longer typing sessions for users who prioritize comfort. Conversely, the HMX EMO, being slightly heavier, may appeal to those seeking a more substantial feel in their keystrokes. Both switches provide similar tactile feedback due to their close actuation and bottom out forces; however, the Botany is ultimately designed for users who enjoy a lighter touch, while the EMO may be better suited for those who favor a bit more resistance.

Travel distance

The Akko Botany linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX EMO linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Botany the longer option by just 0.1 mm, offering a bit more depth in each key press compared to the EMO switch. For gamers or users who appreciate rapid key responses, the shorter travel distance of the EMO may be preferable for its quick feedback. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing might opt for the Botany, as its longer distance could provide a more satisfying tactile experience. Ultimately, both switches cater to specific preferences, highlighting a notable difference despite their similar distances.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Akko Botany linear switch is renowned for its crisp, lively clacky sound right out of the box. This auditory quality delivers an engaging and pleasing typing experience, drawing attention to the delightful tonal characteristics that come with each keystroke. In contrast, the HMX EMO switch also presents a lively, clacky feel but emphasizes a more subtle auditory experience, focusing on smoothness over sharpness. It's important to note that the overall sound profile of any switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used, which means both switches could potentially yield similar auditory results depending on the setup.

When it comes to feel, the Akko Botany switch offers a tactile response that is both engaging and playful, providing users with a satisfying typing sensation that encourages extended typing sessions. Meanwhile, the HMX EMO switch shines with its feather-light 46g bottom-out force, which delivers an effortlessly bouncy typing experience. The exceptional factory lubrication adds a smoothness that enhances the overall feel, contributing to a typing experience that many find particularly enjoyable. While both switches present a lively feel, the EMO's lighter actuation distinguishes it for users who prefer minimal resistance while typing.

In conclusion, both the Akko Botany and HMX EMO linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Botany excels in producing a crisp and lively sound while maintaining an engaging feel, making it a great choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback. On the other hand, the EMO switch provides a smooth, effortless typing experience with a lighter actuation force, appealing to those who seek a bouncier touch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding sound and feel, but both promise a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Akko Botany linear switch and the HMX EMO linear switch will ultimately depend on your personal typing preferences and desired auditory experience. If you find yourself drawn to switches that provide a vibrant, lively clacky sound combined with a crisp typing feel, the Botany switch may be the ideal match for you. Its 45g bottom-out force offers a lightweight experience perfect for prolonged typing sessions, making it suitable for those who appreciate tactile feedback in their work or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience, the HMX EMO switch is likely to be your best bet. Its slightly higher bottom-out force of 46g still qualifies as light, but it is the factory lubrication and bouncy feel that elevate it, allowing you to enjoy a satisfying keystroke without any additional effort. In essence, choose the Botany when you want a lively acoustics and tactile feedback, and opt for the EMO when you’re seeking a silky-smooth, quieter typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Botany Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more

HMX EMO Linear

$3.49

$2.79 per 10

Learn more