Akko Botany vs. Gateron Glory Red

Overview

When choosing mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing options that cater to different preferences and styles. The Akko Botany, a linear switch renowned for its crisp, lively clacky sound, offers a unique auditory experience that many users find delightful. In contrast, the Gateron Glory Red, the lighter switch in the Glory lineup, provides a smooth keystroke with a pleasing travel distance that enhances the overall typing experience. Both switches are linear, meaning they do not have tactile bumps or audible clicks during key presses, making them suitable for users who appreciate seamless and uninterrupted typing. However, while the Botany excels in delivering an engaging sound profile, the Glory Red prioritizes a satisfying feel and ease of use. Ultimately, the choice between them may come down to whether you value auditory feedback or a smooth tactile motion. 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

Gateron Glory Red Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Akko Botany and Gateron Glory Red switches both feature nylon as their core housing material, which sets the foundation for their sound profile and tactile feedback. Both the top and bottom housings of these switches are constructed from nylon, a classic material in the keyboard switch industry known for its ability to absorb sound effectively. Consequently, users can expect a deep and full auditory experience from both switches, resulting in a rounder and softer sound compared to those made with harder plastics. The similarities in their nylon construction mean that when typing on either switch, the acoustics will be comparable, providing a satisfying and muted keypress sound regardless of which one is chosen.

While both the Akko Botany and Gateron Glory Red have nylon housings for both the top and bottom parts, the impact of these materials may still differ based on the overall design and intended use of each switch. Even with identical materials, the nuances in switch feel can be influenced by factors such as the spring resistance or the travel distance. Nevertheless, with both switches utilizing nylon in their construction, users are likely to experience a similar sound profile that emphasizes the softer, more muted characteristics inherent in nylon. This means regardless of switch choice, users can enjoy a consistent auditory experience grounded in the same acoustic principles.

In scenarios where the top and bottom housings vary, differences in materials can lead to contrasting performances. However, both Akko Botany and Gateron Glory Red deliver consistent sound and tactile sensations due to their uniform nylon material composition. The bottom housing contributes more to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing enhances the sound when releasing a key. Since both switches employ nylon in both housings, the shared characteristics work harmoniously. Therefore, switching between the Botany and Glory Red will yield similar results in both sound and feel, allowing users to transition effortlessly while maintaining a pleasing typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron Glory Red linear switch, we see notable differences in their actuation force, though the bottom out force for the Glory Red is unavailable. The Akko Botany features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, making it easier to type for extended periods, which is beneficial for both work and long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Glory Red has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience that those who prefer firmer feedback might appreciate. Without a specified bottom out force for the Glory Red, we cannot directly compare this aspect; however, the Botany's bottom out force is 45 grams. Thus, while the Botany is the lighter switch ideal for prolonged use, the Glory Red leans towards a heavier push feel that could cater to users seeking more resistance in their keystrokes.

Travel distance

Both the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron Glory Red linear switch have an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on the keys, users will experience the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom position for both switches. As a result, typists and gamers seeking a consistent feel in their key presses will find comparable performance in terms of travel distance with either switch.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Akko Botany linear switch is celebrated for its crisp and lively clacky sound, which gives it an engaging auditory character right from the start. This makes it a great option for those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Glory Red linear switch is known for its smooth keystroke, which tends to produce a quieter and subtler sound profile. Both switches will naturally be affected by the choice of keycaps and the construction of the keyboard, but the Botany will likely appeal more to users seeking a pronounced auditory experience, while the Glory Red is tailored for those who prefer a more muted environment.

In terms of feel, the Akko Botany offers a tactile, enjoyable experience that makes each keystroke satisfying, enhancing the overall typing rhythm. Its design leads to a noteworthy sensation during use, which many find appealing. Conversely, the Gateron Glory Red is characterized by a smooth keystroke, promoting a fluid typing experience with pleasing travel distance. This makes it ideal for those who appreciate uninterrupted keystrokes and minimal resistance. While both switches provide a satisfying feel, the Botany's tactile nature offers a different kind of enjoyment than the consistently smooth action of the Glory Red.

In summary, while the Akko Botany linear switch and Gateron Glory Red linear switch differ in sound and feel, they each provide enjoyable experiences tailored to different preferences. The Botany is notably crisp and engaging in sound, with a tactile feel that enhances typing satisfaction, while the Glory Red prioritizes smoothness and subtlety. Ultimately, choosing between them depends on whether you value auditory feedback and a tactile vibe or if you prefer a subdued sound and effortless keystrokes. With both options, you’re set to enjoy a quality typing experience that caters to your specific needs.

Conclusion

To conclude, when you’re choosing between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron Glory Red linear switch, your preferences in sound, feel, and typing experience will play a crucial role. If you prefer a switch that is both light and provides a lively, clacky sound, the Botany would be an excellent choice, especially for an engaging typing experience. This switch's 45-gram bottom-out force makes it comfortable for rapid typing and gaming sessions alike. On the other hand, if you're drawn to a smoother keystroke with a satisfying travel distance, the Gateron Glory Red may be the better option for you. While its exact bottom-out force isn’t specified, it’s recognized for delivering an enjoyable feel that many users appreciate. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you value the acoustic feedback and lightness of the Botany or the smoothness and travel experience of the Glory Red. By considering these factors, you can ensure that the switch you select aligns perfectly with your typing style and sound preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Botany Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Glory Red Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more