Akko Botany vs. TTC Gold Pink
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the TTC Gold Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Botany and TTC Gold Pink switches present two intriguing options for users who prefer linear feel. The Akko Botany switches offer a unique auditory experience with their crisp, lively clacky sound, making them an appealing choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic feedback while typing. In contrast, the TTC Gold Pink switches prioritize a light and effortless typing experience, featuring a remarkably low 37g actuation force, which is excellent for rapid typists and gamers alike seeking maximum responsiveness. Both switches cater to different preferences: the Botany for those who appreciate audible feedback and a lively typing sound, and the Gold Pink for users who favor a smooth, featherlight touch. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Botany and the TTC Gold Pink switches, the most significant difference lies in their top housing materials: nylon for the Botany and polycarbonate for the Gold Pink. Nylon, being a softer plastic, results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This quality makes the Botany switches particularly appealing for users who favor a more muted auditory experience. In contrast, polycarbonate is a stiffer material that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making the Gold Pink switches suitable for those who prefer a brighter auditory feedback when typing. The choice of housing material thus directly influences the switches' overall sound characteristics, providing distinct auditory sensations for the user.
Interestingly, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This consistency in material means that, despite the auditory differences created by the top housing, both the Akko Botany and TTC Gold Pink switches will share some similarities in sound profile stemming from their nylon bottom housings. As nylon absorbs sound vibrations effectively, both switches can offer users a duller and rounder bottom-out sound when a key is fully pressed down. This shared characteristic can make the overall typing experience of both switches feel more cohesive, even though the top housing contributes varying sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Ultimately, the interplay of the housing materials suggests that the Botany and Gold Pink switches, while distinct in their top housings, will take advantage of their identical nylon bottom housings to create a blend of auditory experiences. For users who appreciate the full, round sound provided by the nylon, the Botany offers a complete encapsulation of this characteristic. In contrast, those who opt for the Gold Pink will enjoy an upper register sound, courtesy of the polycarbonate top housing, while still experiencing the muted qualities from the nylon bottom. Therefore, the design of these switches reflects a thoughtful approach to sound engineering, enabling users to select based on their individual auditory and tactile preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, both have relatively similar actuation and bottom out forces. The Botany switch has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Gold Pink features a slightly lighter actuation force at 37 grams, but shares the same bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that both switches require a light touch to actuate, making them suitable for users who prefer prolonged typing sessions without fatigue. However, the TTC Gold Pink is marginally lighter in terms of actuation force, which may appeal to those who prioritize ease of activation. Despite this minor difference, both switches offer a similar bottom out experience, reinforcing a consistent feel when typing or gaming. Overall, users seeking a lighter switch will find the Gold Pink advantages, while those who appreciate the Botany's slightly firmer feel may prefer it for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Botany linear switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, the differences are notable. The Akko Botany features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Gold Pink measures slightly longer at 4 mm. This means the Botany switch provides a shorter travel distance, which can enhance responsiveness, making it particularly appealing for gamers who prefer quicker key presses. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Pink's longer 4 mm travel distance may offer a more satisfying and deeper feel for those who enjoy a weightier keypress. Ultimately, your choice between the two should reflect your personal preference for responsiveness versus depth in keypress feel.
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 TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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 switches are known for their crisp and lively clackiness, which creates an engaging auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience. This lively sound can be especially satisfying for those who enjoy the audible confirmation of each key press. In contrast, the TTC Gold Pink switches also provide a clacky sound profile that is both light and lively, making them suitable for rapid typing and gaming. Although both switches are characterized by their clackiness, the overall sound experience can vary based on factors like the keyboard's build quality and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Botany switch has not been described in the provided information, leaving it somewhat ambiguous. However, the TTC Gold Pink switches are highlighted for their buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished characteristics. This means they offer a smooth and effortless keystroke experience, which minimizes finger fatigue during extended use. Their light actuation force further contributes to a comfortable typing experience, making them ideal for those who engage in fast-paced typing or gaming sessions.
Considering both switches, the Akko Botany makes a strong case for users seeking an engaging sound profile, while the TTC Gold Pink excels in providing a highly comfortable and feather-light typing feel. Although the tactile feel of the Botany remains unaddressed, if both switches share similar sound characteristics, users can expect a lively acoustic signature from either choice. If comfort and smooth typing are paramount, the Gold Pinks offer a refined experience that is hard to match. Ultimately, both switches can cater to different preferences, so one's choice may hinge on prioritizing sound over feel or vice versa.
Conclusion
To summarize, when deciding between the Akko Botany linear switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, your choice will depend on your typing preferences and the type of experience you're looking for. If you appreciate a lively, clacky sound and seek an engaging auditory feedback during typing or gaming, the Akko Botany may be more suited to you. Its 45-gram bottom-out force provides a light touch, ideal for those who enjoy a bit of personality in their keystrokes. However, if you're looking for a switch that emphasizes speed and lightweight operation, you should consider the TTC Gold Pink switch. With its 37-gram actuation force, it’s among the lightest options available, making it perfect for rapid typing sessions or fast-paced gaming. The buttery and mild feel of the Gold Pink is especially appealing for extended use, as it minimizes finger fatigue while providing a smooth typing experience. Ultimately, your choice should hinge on whether you prioritize a lively sound and tactile feedback with the Botany or the ultra-light touch and subtle sound of the Gold Pink for a more effortless and quick typing experience.
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