Akko Botany vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, both the Akko Botany and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red present compelling options for enthusiasts, each with its distinct characteristics and appeal. The Akko Botany is celebrated for its lively, crisp auditory feedback, delivering a clacky sound that brings a satisfying auditory dimension to typing, making it a great choice for those who appreciate pronounced acoustics. Conversely, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red, a budget-friendly linear switch, prioritizes a smooth and seamless typing experience with its medium-light actuation force that strikes a pleasing balance between responsiveness and comfort. Not only does it facilitate an effortless typing experience, but its frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting effects, ensuring a visually stunning setup. While both switches offer unique benefits—one emphasizing sound and tactile feedback and the other focusing on smooth performance and aesthetics—it's essential to explore their features in greater detail to help you decide which switch aligns best with your typing preferences and style.

By the numbers

Akko Botany Linear

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Botany and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches, we observe a clear distinction in the type of plastic used for their top housings. The Akko Botany features a nylon top housing, a material known for its softness and sound-absorbing qualities, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is notably stiffer and leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in materials significantly affects the auditory experience and contributes to the overall character of each switch. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making it a more visually appealing choice for builds emphasizing aesthetics.

In examining the bottom housings, both switches utilize nylon, which contributes similarly to their sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing in the Botany switch maintains that characteristic deeper and fuller sound, aligning with what is observed in the G Pro 3.0 Red. Although both switches employ nylon in the bottom housing, their top housings still create a distinct dichotomy in sound and feel when keys are pressed and released. The combined effects of each housing material is important; the sound produced during the bottoming out is primarily influenced by the bottom housing, while the release sound and overall typing experience are dictated by the top housing.

The interactions between the top and bottom housing materials emphasize the complexity of mechanical switch design. While the G Pro 3.0 Red's combination of a stiffer polycarbonate top and nylon bottom produces a unique typing sensation and auditory feedback, the Botany's mixed nylon materials create a softer and more muted soundscape. To achieve similar results using both switches, one would need to focus on keying techniques and typing styles; for instance, the intentional varying of press speeds or weights could help mimic the softer auditory feedback experienced in the Akko Botany even while using the Gateron’s sharper sound profile. Ultimately, understanding the qualities imparted by each material is essential for users aiming to optimize their typing experience across different switches.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Akko Botany switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Red requires a greater actuation force of 45 grams, making it the heavier option between the two. Consequently, users might find the Botany switch more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions due to its lighter force. Both switches exhibit a relatively similar bottom out force, with the Botany at 45 grams and the G Pro 3.0 Red at 50 grams, expressing a slight preference for the Botany switch for users who appreciate a softer bottoming out experience. Overall, those seeking a lighter touch might gravitate toward the Botany, while those who prefer a more substantial feel might opt for the G Pro 3.0 Red.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, there is a notable difference between the two. The Akko Botany has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the G Pro 3.0 Red measures 4 mm. As the G Pro 3.0 Red has the longer travel distance, it may provide a more pronounced tactile feel for users who appreciate a deeper press, while the Akko Botany's shorter travel distance could appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more responsive typing experience. In this context, users must decide based on their personal preference: those who favor a swift, shallow press might gravitate towards the Akko, while those desiring a more traditional feel may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Red. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance allows for diverse user experiences, catering to both responsiveness and depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Akko Botany switch is widely recognized for its crisp and lively clacky tones, providing a perky auditory feedback that many users find enjoyable. This distinctive sound profile makes it an appealing choice for those who appreciate a more dynamic typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red produces a more neutral sound that presents a moderate pitch and volume, striking a balance suitable for various environments, be it at home or in an office setting. While the Botany offers a more vibrant auditory experience, the G Pro Red caters to users seeking a quieter yet satisfying sound, making both switches versatile for different preferences.

When it comes to feel, the Botany switch does not have a specific description provided, leaving its tactile experience somewhat ambiguous. However, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is known for its creamy, mild, polished, and silky characteristics. This means it delivers a smooth and refined typing experience, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys with minimal resistance. The combined qualities of being creamy and silky result in a very pleasant tactile sensation that appeals to both beginners and seasoned typists alike, offering comfort during prolonged typing sessions.

In conclusion, while the Akko Botany linear switch provides an exciting sound profile, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red delivers a more subdued experience, perfect for users who prefer a quieter environment. On the feel front, the G Pro 3.0 Red has distinctly positive attributes that enhance typing comfort, while the Botany’s tactile characteristics remain unknown. Overall, if you’re looking for an engaging auditory experience, both switches can serve you well, but the G Pro 3.0 Red may be better suited for those who appreciate a smooth and balanced typing feel. Depending on your priorities—whether they be sound or feel—each switch has its strengths, contributing to your mechanical keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you value a more pronounced auditory feedback and a lively typing experience, the Akko Botany may be the better option for you; its lighter bottom-out force of 45 grams allows for quick, responsive typing that can be particularly enjoyable for both gaming and recreational typing. The crisp, clacky sound characterizing the Botany switches can also enhance the tactile feel of each keystroke, making it ideal if you enjoy a more engaging and expressive auditory environment. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth, creamy feel with a more neutral sound profile, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch might suit you better. With its slightly heavier bottom-out force of 50 grams, this switch strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort, making it a great choice for all-day typing, especially in a work setting. Its frosted light diffuser also lends itself to a brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting experience, which could be a desirable feature if aesthetics are important to you. Therefore, consider what aspects—be it sound, feel, or lighting—are most significant to your keyboard experience when making your final decision.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Botany Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red Linear

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

Learn more