Akko Botany vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice can significantly impact your typing experience. On one hand, the Akko Botany, a linear switch, is celebrated for its crisp and lively clacky sound, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy an auditory feedback with every keystroke. Its smooth actuation provides a seamless typing experience, perfect for rapid typists or gamers who prioritize speed. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch redefines tactile feedback, offering a creamy smoothness paired with a pronounced tactile bump that elevates the typing experience to an art form. This balance of subtle friction and polished feel caters to those who appreciate a satisfying tactile response but prefer a quieter operation. While each switch has its unique strengths—whether you favor the auditory engagement of the Botany or the refined touch of the Ice King Tactile—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
58g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
68g
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
Nylon
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
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
The Akko Botany and Durock Ice King Tactile switches both feature nylon housings for their tops and bottoms, creating a shared foundation in terms of material and sound profile. In both cases, nylon is celebrated for its ability to deliver a deeper and fuller sound when typing, thanks to its relatively soft structure that absorbs sound waves more effectively than harder plastics. This shared characteristic contributes to a rounder and duller auditory experience, providing a satisfying feedback loop while typing. As a result, users of both switch types can expect a similarly rich sound profile, which significantly enhances the overall typing experience.
While the top and bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, the impact of the material on the final output depends slightly on the configuration and design of each switch. When a key is pressed, it's the bottom housing that primarily influences the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback. Conversely, the top housing plays a more critical role in shaping the sound when releasing a key. Since both switches utilize nylon for both parts, users can anticipate similar results in terms of acoustic performance whether using the Botany or Ice King Tactile switches. The uniformity in material allows users to enjoy the same sensory experience along the typing journey.
In summary, the key comparison between the Akko Botany and Durock Ice King Tactile lies in their identical use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This not only offers a deeper and fuller sound profile but also ensures that the tactile experience remains consistent across both switch types. Even though there may be slight variations in design or shape that could influence individual user experience, the core material properties ensure that the typing feel and sound are harmoniously aligned, providing a satisfying and engaging experience with either switch.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, there are notable differences in both their actuation and bottom out forces. The Botany switch features a relatively light actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it easier to press and ideal for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Ice King Tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 58 grams and a bottom out force of 68 grams, offering a more substantial resistance that some typists may prefer for a more tactile feedback experience. Therefore, while the Botany switch is suited for users looking for a lighter feel, the Ice King Tactile provides a firmer push, catering to those who favor a stronger typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for weight and actuation feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko Botany linear switch measures 3.6 mm, while the Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference of just 0.1 mm may seem minor, but it can impact the typing experience. The shorter travel distance of the Ice King Tactile can provide a more responsive feel, ideal for gamers who require quick feedback when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Botany's longer travel distance might appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced key press, offering a sense of depth that some find more satisfying. Ultimately, if you prioritize responsiveness and speed, the Ice King Tactile is the way to go, while the Botany is a better fit for those who favor a more substantial keystroke.
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 Durock Ice King Tactile has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Tactile for $4.20.
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 sound profile of the Akko Botany linear switch stands out for its crisp and lively character, delivering a clacky sound right from the start. This lively auditory feedback can add an enjoyable dimension to typing, especially for those who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic presence. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch features a more subdued sound, which offers a dampened auditory response when pressed. This makes the Ice King Tactile an excellent choice for users seeking a quieter typing experience while still enjoying a tactile sensation. While both switches can produce distinct auditory atmospheres, the Botany’s clacky and lively sound contrasts sharply with the Ice King's more muted and subtle signature, leading to different user experiences depending on the preference for auditory feedback.
When it comes to the feel of each switch, the Akko Botany linear switch is designed for smooth operation, allowing for seamless key presses without the typical tactile feedback associated with tactile switches. In comparison, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch excels in providing a uniquely rich tactile experience that blends silky smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump. This combination allows for a satisfying typing experience, as the frictionless nature of the switch minimizes resistance. Users will also appreciate the stepped feel of the Ice King, which includes a nuanced tactile response during key presses. Overall, while the Botany offers a fluid and uncomplicated feel, the Ice King elevates typing to a more tactile and engaging experience.
In conclusion, the Akko Botany linear switch and Durock Ice King Tactile switch present two distinct typing experiences through their sound and feel qualities. The Botany is characterized by its lively and clacky auditory feedback, perfect for those who enjoy a pronounced sound during typing. Meanwhile, the Ice King Tactile provides a more subdued sound profile while excelling in tactile feedback with its silky and frictionless feel, enhanced by its stepped design. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing sensation, both switches cater to different users, ensuring that there's a fitting choice for anyone entering the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch should align with your personal preferences for typing and gaming experiences. If you are seeking a lighter switch that delivers a lively and crisp sound with a smooth feel, the Botany is an excellent option. Its bottom-out force of 45 grams makes it ideal for those who favor rapid key presses and a more agile typing experience, whether for casual typing or fast-paced gaming. Conversely, if you appreciate a more tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and a medium-heavy feel, the Ice King Tactile switch would be the better choice. Its heavier 68-gram bottom-out force and silky, frictionless operation create an engaging typing experience that is both satisfying and responsive, perfect for those who enjoy the tactile feedback in their keystrokes. Ultimately, consider what aspects—sound, feel, and actuation force—are most crucial to your keyboard usage, and choose accordingly to elevate your typing experience.
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