Akko Botany vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly impact both the typing experience and gaming performance. The Akko Botany switches are celebrated for their lively, crisp clacks, making them a delightful option for those who appreciate a tactile and audible typing experience. Their distinctive sound profile elevates the ambiance of any workspace, catering to both typists and gamers who want to make their keystrokes known. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches shine in gaming scenarios, boasting a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm for lightning-fast key registration—perfect for competitive play. These switches exemplify the budget-friendly G Pro line, offering engaging auditory feedback with their medium-high pitch while ensuring vibrant RGB lighting enhances your gaming setup. While the Botany switches prioritize expressive auditory feedback, the Gateron G Pro delivers speed and efficiency, making each appealing to different user 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
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Botany and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver, a distinct contrast emerges with regards to their top housing. The Akko Botany employs a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. Nylon's ability to absorb sound contributes to a more muted acoustic signature, giving the Botany switch a rounded and smoother typing experience. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, which is considerably stiffer and creates a brighter, crisper sound. This results in a more resonant tone that is particularly apparent when the switch is released, making polycarbonate a desirable choice for those who enjoy a sharper auditory experience. Aesthetic considerations also play a role, as polycarbonate's translucency enhances RGB lighting effects, while nylon's opacity does not provide the same visual vibrancy.
In contrast, both switches employ nylon for their bottom housing, which aligns them in terms of the acoustic characteristics produced at the bottoming-out phase of the key press. The nylon bottom housing contributes a consistent deeper and fuller sound, benefiting both switches equally. This uniformity in the bottom housing means that the overall typing experience will retain that muffled quality attributed to nylon, irrespective of the differences in top housing materials. The tactile feedback felt during a key press will be similarly influenced by the softness of nylon, promoting a cushioned bottom-out feel that many users appreciate.
Ultimately, the differing characteristics of the top housing in the Akko Botany and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver create unique sound profiles that cater to distinct preferences. While the Botany's nylon top fosters a smooth and subdued acoustic experience, the G Pro 3.0 Silver provides a sharper and more energetic sound. However, both switches share a common sonic foundation thanks to their nylon bottom housings, ensuring that despite their differences, they can deliver similar tactile and auditory sensations when pressed down. This relationship highlights how the interplay of materials in switch design can significantly influence the overall user experience while still maintaining some consistent characteristics across different products.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, there are notable distinctions in their actuation and bottom out forces. 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 for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, catering to users who enjoy a more substantial push feel during their keystrokes. Therefore, the Botany switch is lighter overall, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver is heavier, providing different user experiences based on personal preference. Those seeking less fatigue during prolonged use may gravitate toward the lighter Akko Botany, whereas users desiring a stronger tactile feedback might choose the Gateron switch.
Travel distance
The Akko Botany linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm might seem minor, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. The shorter G Pro 3.0 Silver is more aligned with the preferences of gamers who seek faster response times, making it ideal for rapid actions during gameplay. On the other hand, the Botany's longer travel distance offers a more pronounced feedback and depth, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for speed versus a more traditional, hearty feel, with the G Pro 3.0 Silver being the shorter option and the Botany providing a longer travel distance.
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 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
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 produces a crisp, lively clacky sound that is sure to catch attention. This distinctive auditory quality sets it apart as a switch that can provide a cheerful and engaging typing experience. Conversely, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver has a more bassy and low-pitched sound profile characterized by a rich, thocky signature when the keys are pressed. The deeper tones can create a satisfying auditory feedback, especially during gaming sessions. While both switches offer appealing sounds, the Botany leans towards a brighter, more lively resonance, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Silver favors a deeper, more resonant auditory experience, inviting gamers and typists to enjoy distinct audio qualities.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Botany linear switch leaves us without specific descriptors to illustrate its typing sensation. However, the G Pro 3.0 Silver is celebrated for its buttery and creamy feel, delivering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Users can expect a seamless typing sensation that allows for effortless navigation across the keyboard. This contrast in tactile feedback invites users to explore their preferences: whether they enjoy the lively feel that might accompany the Botany or an ultra-smooth experience with the G Pro 3.0 Silver.
Combining both sound and feel, the Akko Botany offers a vibrant auditory output while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver provides a deeper, richer sound complemented by a luxuriously smooth typing experience. While these switches differ in specific qualities, they each cater to distinctive preferences that can enhance your mechanical keyboard setup. Whether you lean towards the lively clack of the Botany or the rich thock of the G Pro 3.0 Silver, each switch presents unique benefits, making it crucial to determine which characteristics align best with your typing or gaming needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, the choice largely hinges on your specific needs for typing or gaming. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and enjoy a crisp, lively sound profile, the Botany switch may be your best option. It is particularly well-suited for those who appreciate a more tactile experience and a vibrant audio backdrop while typing. On the other hand, if gaming performance is your primary focus, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches should be your go-to choice. With their shorter travel distance and buttery-smooth keystrokes, they provide exceptional responsiveness that can enhance your gaming strategy. The deeper, thocky sound adds an immersive layer to your sessions, making it a thrilling choice for gamers wanting that auditory feedback. In essence, let your intended use guide your selection: playful and expressive typing with the Botany or lightning-fast performance with the G Pro 3.0 Silver.
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