Akko Botany vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, both the Akko Botany and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black present compelling options, especially for fans of linear switches. The Akko Botany is renowned for its lively, clacky sound, providing an enjoyable auditory feedback right out of the box, making it a great choice for those who appreciate a more engaging typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black stands as the heaviest linear switch in the G Pro lineup, appealing to users who seek a more substantial feel beneath their fingers. With its 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force, this switch delivers a balanced medium-heavy typing experience, complemented by its medium-high pitch sound that adds a subtle richness to each keystroke. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Black's frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting effects, catering to gamers and enthusiasts who want their setups to shine as brightly as their performance. Each switch comes with its unique characteristics that may suit different user preferences, but let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Akko Botany Linear

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Akko Botany and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black keyboards both utilize distinct housing materials that markedly influence their acoustic characteristics and overall typing experiences. The Akko Botany features a nylon top housing, a material known for its ability to generate a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This softer composition enhances sound absorption, producing a duller and rounder impact as the keys are pressed. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black incorporates a proprietary INK blend top housing, which is characterized by a pointed, high-pitched sound that adds a clacky quality to each keystroke. Thus, while both keyboards feature a top housing that contributes significantly to sound output, the Botany's nylon provides a warmer tone, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Black's INK blend yields a sharper auditory experience.

Shift attention to the bottom housings, and the differences become even more pronounced. The Akko Botany utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, reinforcing its ability to deliver a deeper and more muted sound profile that complements its soft top. With this combination, users can expect an immersive auditory experience marked by resonance stability. In stark contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black opts for a POM bottom housing, which continues the trend of rounder sound but introduces a unique character that remains on the deeper side while being relatively muted. The differences in materials ultimately create layering within the sound profiles of both keyboards, though the softness of the Botany's nylon and the refined qualities of the G Pro's POM lend differing harmonics to their sounds.

When evaluating both keyboards as a whole, it becomes clear that while the Akko Botany prioritizes a fuller, warmer auditory experience through its nylon housings, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black leans towards a sharper, more articulated sound with its mixed materials. Importantly, the various contributions of the top and bottom housings mean that typists can expect contrasting sensory experiences when engaging with the switches. Despite these differences, enthusiasts may find similar results in terms of typing satisfaction, as both feature unique materials that enhance the tactile feedback, proving that the ultimate gaming or typing experience can still be enjoyable, even if the overall sound signature differs considerably.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, a clear distinction in actuation and bottom out forces emerges. The Akko Botany features a relatively light actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a softer touch and might type for extended periods without fatigue. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who favor a stronger tactile feedback. Consequently, while the Botany switch is lighter and ideal for long-term comfort, the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a firmer hold for users seeking more resistance in their keystrokes. Therefore, users should select the Akko Botany if they desire a lighter touch, whereas the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black is better suited for those who appreciate a heavier feel in their switches.

Travel distance

The Akko Botany linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This difference indicates that the Botany switch is designed for quicker response times, appealing to gamers who prefer shorter travel distances for enhanced performance. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black's 4 mm travel provides a more traditional feel that some users may find more satisfying due to its additional depth. Thus, the Akko Botany is the shorter option while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black is the longer one; when selecting between the two, individuals should consider whether they favor the speed of a shorter travel distance or the more substantial feedback of a longer one.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Akko Botany switch delivers a lively and clacky auditory experience right out of the box, characterized by a crisp and bright tone that gives it a distinct personality. This is in stark contrast to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black, which offers a more subdued auditory profile. The G Pro 3.0 Black produces a medium-high pitch sound that can feel dampened compared to the Botany switch. This difference means that while the Botany can be quite pronounced and attention-grabbing, the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a more understated auditory experience that may be preferable for shared environments.

When evaluating their tactile feel, the Akko Botany switches provide a unique sensation that can be described as lively, quite engaging, and highly responsive. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black offers a notably creamy and silky feel during typing, attributed to potentially factory-applied lubrication or high-quality materials. This results in an exceptionally smooth experience, allowing for effortless keystrokes. The G Pro 3.0 Black’s heavier actuation force also contributes to a more substantial typing feedback, which differs from the more dynamic and potentially lighter feel of the Botany switches.

In conclusion, both the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black offer distinct typing experiences through their sound and feel features. The Botany will cater to those who enjoy a lively clacky sound and responsive tactile feedback, while the G Pro 3.0 Black appeals to individuals looking for a smoother and more substantial feeling when typing, combined with a more subdued auditory quality. Ultimately, personal preference will dictate which switch is more suitable; however, either choice will provide a satisfactory linear typing experience depending on what qualities you prioritize most.

Conclusion

To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, your decision should align with your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a lighter feel during typing, the Botany switch, with its 45 grams bottom-out force, is an excellent choice. This switch delivers a lively and clacky sound that can add an exciting auditory experience to your keystrokes, ideal for users who enjoy an engaging typing session or those who often type in solitude where the sound can be relished. On the other hand, if you seek a more robust typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Black, with a heavier bottom-out force of 70 grams, will provide the substance you crave. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy a smoother and creamier feel while typing, as its construction allows for a buttery experience. Plus, the G Pro 3.0 Black’s medium-high pitch sound adds an energetic touch without overwhelming a shared environment. Ultimately, consider your typing style and the sound profile you prefer when making your choice; whether it's the cheerful clack of the Botany or the refined smoothness of the G Pro 3.0, both switches offer unique advantages tailored to different users.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Botany Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black Linear

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

Learn more