Akko Botany vs. TTC Ice
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the TTC Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Botany and the TTC Ice present two appealing options for linear switch enthusiasts. The Akko Botany stands out with its lively, crisp clacky sound, adding a distinctive auditory feedback that many typists and gamers find engaging. This switch is perfect for those who appreciate a little character in their keystrokes, making it an excellent choice for creative work or casual gaming. In contrast, the TTC Ice offers a sleek, crystal-clear design complemented by a smooth, responsive feel and a satisfying bottom-out sound, catering to users who prioritize a premium typing experience suited for both gaming and everyday tasks. While the Botany leans towards liveliness with its notable acoustics, the Ice excels in providing a refined and versatile experience. Both options have their unique charms, but 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
Nylon Pro
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Botany and the TTC Ice switches, the most notable difference lies in the choice of materials used for both the top and bottom housings. The Botany utilizes nylon in both its top and bottom housings, a classic switch material that is known for producing a deep, full sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb sound, resulting in a richer auditory experience characterized by duller and rounder tones. In contrast, the TTC Ice switches incorporate polycarbonate for both their top and bottom housings. This stiffer material generates a crisper and higher-pitched sound profile that enhances clarity and resonance. The clear translucency of polycarbonate also makes it particularly suited for RGB lighting applications, providing a visually striking aesthetic that is absent in the Botany's nylon design.
In terms of sound characteristics, the differences in materials between the two switches lead to distinct auditory experiences. The nylon used in the Botany's housing contributes to a softer, more muted sound, appealing to users who prefer a smoother typing experience with less acoustic feedback. The impact of this material choice means that when users bottom out on the keys, they encounter a sound profile that is both warmer and more subdued. Conversely, the polycarbonate housing of the TTC Ice switches results in a sharper sound that accentuates each keystroke, making it ideal for users who favor a more tactile and pronounced auditory confirmation when typing. This distinction not only highlights the inherent properties of the two materials but also showcases how they cater to differing preferences in sound and tactile feedback.
Despite their differences, both switch types can still produce satisfying results in their own right. If both the Botany and Ice switches utilize the same top and bottom housing material, users would notice a consistent auditory experience between the two. For instance, if the nylon and polycarbonate materials were swapped, the switch would likely generate a sound profile similar to that of the other. However, because the Akko Botany and TTC Ice switches embrace their individual material strengths, they appeal to distinct user preferences while still ensuring a unique and enjoyable typing experience. In conclusion, understanding the implications of housing materials on sound and feedback can help users make informed decisions in selecting a switch that aligns with their typing style and auditory preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Botany switch features a light actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an ideal choice for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, suitable for extended use during work or long gaming sessions. In contrast, the TTC Ice switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium-force switch that offers a more substantial typing feel, appealing to those who favor a firmer push. As a result, users looking for a lighter option should opt for the Akko Botany, while those who appreciate a heavier switch might find the TTC Ice more satisfying. Thus, while both switches cater to different preferences, they achieve distinct tactile experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko Botany linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch both feature an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm, which means that users will experience the same distance when pressing down on the keys of these switches. This similarity in travel distance results in a comparable feel and performance when typing or gaming, offering a uniform keypress experience between the two options. Thus, if you choose either switch, you can expect a consistent travel distance that contributes to a smooth and responsive tactile feedback.
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 Ice has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice for $5.99.
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
The Akko Botany linear switch is known for producing a crisp, lively clacky sound that gives it a bright auditory character, making typing feel more dynamic. This engaging sound can create a gratifying experience, particularly for those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic feedback while they type. On the other hand, the TTC Ice linear switch characterized by its sharp, clacky nature, delivers a clear percussive sound that enhances the overall typing experience. Both switches create a lively auditory environment, but the Botany's emphasis on crispness may appeal to users seeking an energetic sound profile, while the Ice offers a slightly more focused clarity due to its design and engineering.
In terms of feel, the Akko Botany switch has not been specifically detailed, which leaves its tactile feedback somewhat open to interpretation. However, the TTC Ice switch is recognized for its feathery lightness, allowing for easy actuation with minimal effort, which significantly reduces finger fatigue during extended use. This responsiveness can be highly beneficial for gamers or anyone who types for long periods, as it offers a comfortable and satisfying experience. The absence of detailed information on the Botany's feel means that users selecting between these switches may lean towards the Ice if they prioritize ease of use and comfort.
In summary, while both the Akko Botany and TTC Ice linear switches deliver a distinct auditory experience with their clacky sounds, the Ice switch’s feathery feel sets it apart in terms of comfort and usability. If a user is drawn to a lively sound profile, they might appreciate both switches; however, if prolonged typing sessions are a concern, the TTC Ice could be the more favorable choice due to its light actuation force. Each switch caters to slightly different preferences, so understanding these nuances can guide newcomers in making an informed decision based on their individual needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko Botany linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch largely depends on your preferences for sound and feel as well as the intensity of the typing experience you are seeking. If you prefer a light actuation force and enjoy a lively, clacky typing sound, the Botany switch is an excellent choice, making it ideal for casual typing and users who may type for extended periods, like students or writers. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more substantial feel with a smoother, more balanced response and a crisp sound that is suitable for both gaming and everyday tasks, the TTC Ice switch may be more aligned with your needs. Its higher bottom-out force and feathery touch make it advantageous for those who want that tactile feedback while still minimizing finger fatigue. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal typing style and the atmosphere you want to create during your keyboard use.
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