Akko Botany vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two compelling options are the Akko Botany and the PH Studio Jacaranda, both linear switches that cater to different user preferences. The Akko Botany is celebrated for its lively clacky sound, delivering a crisp auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience from the get-go. This switch is ideal for users who appreciate a balance between smooth keystrokes and engaging sound, making it suitable for both typing and gaming scenarios. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda, crafted by KTT, offers a gentle bottom-out force of 43.5g that ensures comfort during extended typing sessions. Its notable bounciness, courtesy of a unique 22mm spring, not only contributes to a smooth feel but also infuses each keystroke with a lively feedback, appealing to those who favor a more dynamic typing experience. While both switches are designed to deliver an enjoyable and distinctive performance, they cater to different preferences in sound and feel. 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
39g
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
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Botany and the PH Studio Jacaranda, the differences between their top housings are striking. The Botany features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This property allows nylon to absorb sound effectively, leading to a rounder, less piercing auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Jacaranda employs a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffer structure enhances resonance, making the typing experience distinctly brighter and more pronounced. If users are seeking a richer sound, the Botany’s nylon top housing is preferable, while those who enjoy a more articulate sound would lean towards the Jacaranda’s polycarbonate top.
However, both the Botany and the Jacaranda utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which means they share similar qualities when it comes to sound absorption and tactile feedback. Both switches will produce a deeper, fuller sound profile at the bottom of the keypress, as the nylon's softer composition allows it to absorb noise effectively, thus creating a consistent acoustic experience across both models. The tactile feedback provided by the nylon bottom housing will feel similar in both switches, ensuring that users who opt for either will not be disappointed with the feel of key presses. This shared bottom housing material exemplifies a unifying element in their design, influencing the overall typing experience positively.
Ultimately, the combination of differing top housing materials and a consistent bottom housing material creates a unique contrast in sound profiles for the Akko Botany and PH Studio Jacaranda. While the Botany leans towards providing a warmer and fuller experience due to its nylon top, the Jacaranda's clearer and more resonant sound profile is highlighted by its polycarbonate top. The deeper sound from both switches, thanks to their nylon bottoms, means that while both have distinct characteristics, they also share common ground in overall softness of sound. Whether one prefers a more dulcet tone or a sharper auditory experience, the versatility in housing materials allows each switch to cater to different preferences while maintaining a foundation of comfort and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, both exhibit light characteristics but differ slightly in actuation force. The Botany switch has an actuation force of 38 grams, while the Jacaranda requires a marginally heavier 39 grams to actuate. However, both switches share an equal bottom out force of 45 grams. This similarity in bottom out force means that users can expect a consistent feel when fully pressing down on either switch, contributing to a satisfying typing experience. The lighter actuation force of the Botany might appeal to those seeking less strain during extended typing sessions or gaming marathons, while the Jacaranda, being slightly heavier, may provide a more substantial push feel that some typists and gamers might prefer. Ultimately, both switches offer a light touch, but the Botany stands out as the lighter option due to its lower actuation force.
Travel distance
The Akko Botany linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch present a subtle difference in travel distance, with the Botany measuring 3.6 mm and the Jacaranda at 3.5 mm. This makes the Jacaranda the shorter switch by a mere 0.1 mm, which might appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times due to its reduced travel distance. Conversely, those who appreciate a more pronounced keypress may lean towards the Botany, as its greater travel distance can provide a more satisfactory feel when typing. Both switches fall within the contemporary trend of shorter distances, and while they offer similar overall performance, the slight edge in travel distance gives the Botany a more traditional feel compared to the Jacaranda.
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 PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the Akko Botany switch is celebrated for its lively and crisp clack, providing a resonant auditory feedback that engages the typist from the get-go. This engaging sound quality is reflected in the typing experience, enhancing the tactile satisfaction with each keystroke. Similarly, the PH Studio Jacaranda switch also features a clacky sound profile, characterized by a bright and percussive tone that adds to the overall enjoyment of typing. It produces an audible feedback that's distinct and clear, ensuring users feel connected to their keystrokes. Both switches promise an enjoyable auditory experience, making them excellent choices for those who appreciate a lively and engaging sound.
In terms of feel, the Akko Botany switch does not have specific characteristics provided, leaving that quality open to interpretation. On the other hand, the Jacaranda switch is praised for its exceptionally silky smoothness, which minimizes resistance during typing and enhances the ease with which users can press or release keys. This seamless feel not only contributes to a comfortable typing experience but also helps to reduce finger fatigue over extended periods of use. The extra 22mm spring length further improves the overall bounciness, making it a joy to type on. Thus, while the Botany's specific tactile qualities remain uncertain, the Jacaranda's smooth and cushioned feel offers a considerable advantage.
In conclusion, both the Akko Botany and PH Studio Jacaranda switches provide a delightful typing experience with their crisp and engaging sound profiles. While the Jacaranda excels in providing a silky smooth feel that enhances user comfort, the Botany's specific tactile qualities remain less defined. Ultimately, both switches bring a unique auditory enjoyment to the table, with the Jacaranda offering a superior tactile experience, making them both viable options for newcomers to mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko Botany and PH Studio Jacaranda linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences in sound and feel. If you enjoy a lively and crisp auditory feedback coupled with a light bottom-out force, the Botany switches might be the ideal choice for you, especially if you're looking for an engaging typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, if you prioritize a buttery smooth feel with a bouncy sensation and a slightly softer actuation, the Jacaranda switches are likely to be more suited to your needs. Their unique 22mm spring design not only provides a gentle bottom-out but also enhances the typing experience, making keystrokes feel more dynamic and less fatiguing over extended usage. In summary, if you prefer a bright, clacky sound and a mechanical feedback, go for the Akko Botany; if you desire silky smoothness and a cushy, springy feel, the Jacaranda will be your best bet.
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