Akko Botany vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Botany and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown present two distinct options that cater to different preferences. The Akko Botany, a linear switch, is renowned for producing a crisp, lively clacky sound straight out of the box, appealing to those who enjoy a more vibrant auditory experience while typing. Its smooth keystroke makes it an ideal choice for gamers who favor rapid, uninterrupted key presses without tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a balanced approach, featuring a gentle tactile bump that provides subtle feedback without disrupting your typing flow. This switch is categorized as easy-to-press and mild, making it suitable for users who appreciate a tactile sensation while still maintaining a quieter and more reserved typing experience. Moreover, its frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting, appealing to gamers and enthusiasts alike who value aesthetic enhancements. Both switches have their unique strengths, which ultimately cater to different typing styles and preferences; 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
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Botany and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown, we can see distinct differences in their top housings, which contribute uniquely to sound output. The Akko Botany features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This property arises from nylon's softer plastic composition, allowing it to absorb sound waves more effectively than harder materials. Consequently, the result is a muted and rounded auditory experience that many typists appreciate for its warmth and richness. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which generates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffer plastic makeup. This results in a more resonant and clear sound when typing, making it an excellent choice for users who prefer a crisp feedback mechanism, particularly in setups that involve RGB lighting.
Examining the bottom housings of these two switches reveals a notable similarity. Both the Akko Botany and the G Pro 3.0 Brown utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which results in a consistently deeper sound profile that is characteristic of this material. This shared aspect means that when typing on both switches, users will experience similar tactile feedback and sound absorption qualities from the bottom half. Thus, regardless of the contrasting top housings, both switches exhibit common traits in their bottom portions that ensure a fulfilling bottom-out sound and feel, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Considering how the differing top and bottom housing materials can affect performance, it’s crucial to note that the combination of these characteristics defines the dual nature of the sound produced when a key is pressed. While the nylon bottom housing contributes to the deeper sound upon bottoming out, the polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 creates a clearer sound when the key is released. For the Akko Botany, the nylon top maintains that fuller sound profile throughout. This interplay results in each switch delivering a unique auditory experience shaped by their respective materials, where the nylon elements soften the overall impact with warmth, while polycarbonate brings a lively crispness to the sound when keys are released. Hence, while the two switches’ top housings differ significantly, their bottom housings create a beautiful balance that leads to a satisfying typing performance in both cases.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces, impacting the typing experience. The Botany switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, making it easier to press, which is ideal for users who prefer prolonged typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Brown requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial feel for those who enjoy tactile feedback while typing. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Botany switch is 45 grams, also lighter than the G Pro 3.0, which has a bottom out force of 63 grams. Consequently, users who favor a lighter switch may gravitate towards the Akko Botany, while those who appreciate the robustness of a heavier actuation might prefer the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown. Thus, the Akko Botany is the lighter switch overall, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, we see a noticeable difference. The Akko Botany offers a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means that the Botany switch provides a shorter travel distance, which may be preferable for gamers seeking quick response times and a more responsive feel. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 Brown’s longer travel distance caters to users who enjoy a more traditional depth when typing, giving them a fuller tactile experience. For those who prioritize rapid feedback, the shorter distance of the Botany switch may be more appealing, whereas the G Pro 3.0 could be favored by users who appreciate a more substantial key press.
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 G Pro 3.0 Brown has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Brown for $2.77.
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
In terms of sound, the Akko Botany linear switch is exceptional for producing a crisp and lively clacky noise right out of the box, providing an engaging auditory experience that many typists find delightful. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch offers a more subdued sound profile with a medium-high pitch, delivering satisfying auditory feedback that doesn’t overshadow the tactile experience. While both switches have distinct sound qualities that cater to different preferences, it’s essential to remember that the overall sound produced will also depend on other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Botany's characteristics are not specified, but the G Pro 3.0 Brown is particularly appealing due to its easy-to-press design. This feature allows for minimal force during activation, making for an effortless typing experience that reduces finger fatigue. Moreover, the G Pro Brown switch incorporates a mild tactile bump, giving users a gentle resistance that feels approachable and comfortable. Its stepped design offers a nuanced typing experience with some distinct pre-travel and post-travel sensations, setting it apart from switches with more pronounced tactile feedback.
In summary, while the Akko Botany linear switch excels with its lively sound, the G Pro 3.0 Brown provides a more subdued auditory experience coupled with a user-friendly feel. The Botany's tactile characteristics are less defined, whereas the G Pro Brown's easy-going resistance and mild tactile feedback enhance typing comfort. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver enjoyable results, with the Botany appealing to those seeking a more vibrant auditory cue and the G Pro Brown catering to users who prioritize a comfortable and pleasant typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, it's essential to consider your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you’ll use them. If you lean towards a lighter typing experience with a crisp, lively sound that can make your keystrokes feel more engaging, the Botany switch is the way to go. It's particularly suited for those who enjoy a more dynamic auditory feedback and light actuation force, allowing for effortless typing and rapid key presses—perfect for gaming or fast-paced work. On the other hand, if you prefer a more traditional typing feel with a subtle tactile bump and a medium resistance that provides a reassuring feedback without being overwhelming, the G Pro 3.0 Brown might be your best choice. Its mildly tactile nature and affordable quality make it an excellent compromise for both typing and casual gaming, along with an RGB-friendly design that enhances your keyboard’s aesthetics. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you value a more responsive and playful linear feel versus a balanced tactile sensation that promotes comfort over extended periods of use.
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