Akko Botany vs. HMX Hibiscus
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the HMX Hibiscus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Botany and HMX Hibiscus both stand out as exceptional linear options, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Akko Botany switches are celebrated for their lively clacky sound, which enhances the auditory experience while typing, making them a delightful choice for those who enjoy a more expressive feedback. While they provide a reliable linear feel, the added acoustics can make typing feel more engaging. On the other hand, HMX Hibiscus switches are renowned for their unparalleled smoothness and lightweight actuation force, offering a typing experience that feels effortless and precise. With a sound signature that is equally satisfying—clacky and poppy—these switches offer a delightful balance for users seeking both performance and auditory pleasure. Ultimately, the choice between the Akko Botany and HMX Hibiscus switches will depend on whether you prioritize sound dynamics or a smooth typing experience. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon Pro
Stem material
T3
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko Botany and the HMX Hibiscus share a notable similarity in the materials used for their top and bottom switch housings, as both feature nylon for these components. This common choice of material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile in each switch, providing a satisfying auditory experience for typists. The softness of the nylon serves to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and more muted acoustic output. This characteristic enhances the overall feel of the typing experience, allowing users to enjoy a more tactile and weighted key response.
Despite the identical material used in both models' housings, differences in design or manufacturing processes could lead to variations in how these qualities are perceived during use. The effects of the nylon top and bottom housings manifest differently depending on the pressure exerted on the switches. While both switches benefit from the dampening properties of nylon, the overall impact on sound and feel might not be entirely interchangeable. For instance, the top housing influences the sound when a key is released, while the bottom housing has a more significant effect on the bottom-out sound and feedback when a key is pressed down.
In sum, while both the Akko Botany and the HMX Hibiscus utilize the same nylon material for their switch housings, the unique engineering and structural design of each product can result in different user experiences. The integration of nylon ensures that both switches produce a rich sound profile, yet during interaction with the switches, users may perceive distinct qualities based on how each switch reacts under pressure. As such, the end result can yield similar auditory effects, but the nuances of each switch's design may offer a variety of tactile experiences for users to appreciate.
Weight
The Akko Botany linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch both offer a relatively light typing experience, yet they differ in their 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 Hibiscus switch features a slightly higher actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that the Botany switch requires less force to actuate, making it the lighter option overall, which can benefit users who type for extended periods or during long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Hibiscus, being slightly heavier, provides a more substantial push feel, appealing to those who prefer a firmer typing experience. While both switches are categorized as light, the Hibiscus offers a bit more resistance, encouraging a different tactile response during use. Therefore, while they both cater to those who enjoy lighter switches, the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference regarding the desired degree of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko Botany linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Hibiscus linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Botany switch requires a bit more distance to fully engage, lending it a deeper feel, which some users may prefer for a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the Hibiscus, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to gamers or those who favor quicker response times and more nimble keystrokes. Although both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range that has gained popularity, the Botany's 3.6 mm distance gives it the edge for users seeking a more substantial keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these two could hinge on whether one prioritizes a deeper engagement or rapid response.
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 HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
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 switch delivers a crisp and lively clacky sound, ensuring that each keystroke is accompanied by an engaging auditory feedback that many typists and gamers find satisfying. Meanwhile, the HMX Hibiscus switch features a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, which also adds to the enjoyment of typing. While both switches emphasize a lively auditory experience, the unique characteristics of each sound may appeal differently to users, depending on their preferences for acoustic feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Botany switch is not specifically detailed in its tactile qualities, but it emphasizes the lively sound that can often suggest a spirited typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Hibiscus excels in providing an incredibly smooth feeling while typing, making the overall actuation effortless with a notably light force required. This ultra-smooth experience is a key factor, especially for those who prioritize a seamless and fluid typing action.
In summary, while both the Akko Botany and HMX Hibiscus linear switches provide a clacky auditory experience, they cater to different aesthetics, with the Botany leaning more towards a lively soundscape and the Hibiscus being recognized for its exceptional smoothness. If you are seeking a switch that combines lively sound with a comfortable feel, consider trying both to find which aligns best with your specific preferences, as each offers a compelling solution for an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko Botany linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a light touch with a bottom-out force of 45 grams and enjoy a lively, clacky sound that enhances your typing experience right out of the box, the Botany switch may be the ideal choice for you. Its crisp acoustic footprint makes it a great option for those who appreciate auditory feedback while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you seek an ultra-smooth and pristine typing experience, along with a slightly higher bottom-out force of 48 grams, the HMX Hibiscus switch might be more suited to your needs. Its unique combination of a satisfying clacky sound and exceptional smoothness can offer a rare and enjoyable tactile sensation. In summary, if you prioritize sound and a lighter force, go for the Botany; if you prioritize smoothness and a bit more resistance, the Hibiscus is likely your best bet.
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