Akko Botany vs. HMX Jammy
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the HMX Jammy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Botany and HMX Jammy provide distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Akko Botany switches are celebrated for their crisp, lively clacky sound, adding an auditory exhilaration to your typing experience, which can be particularly appealing for users who enjoy tactile feedback and sound. Conversely, the HMX Jammy switches, with their softer and glittery nylon housings, present a medium-weight typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying, ideal for those who prefer a quieter atmosphere while typing. Both switches are linear, meaning they offer a smooth keystroke without tactile bumps, allowing for effortless engagement. Ultimately, selecting between the Botany's spirited character and the Jammy's subtlety can significantly enhance your keyboard 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
57g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of both the Akko Botany and the HMX Jammy are identical, with both utilizing nylon for their top and bottom housings. This use of nylon is significant, as it is recognized for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Both switches benefit from nylon's properties, which include being a softer plastic that effectively absorbs sound. Consequently, this shared characteristic means that users of either switch can expect a similar auditory experience—duller and rounder sounds, inherent to switches built with nylon.
Though both the Botany and the Jammy switches feature the same housing materials, the acoustic effects can vary based on their design and construction. Despite having similar nylon properties, the way in which those properties are harnessed can lead to subtle differences in feel and performance. Since the bottom housing is more influential in defining the bottom-out sound and feel while the top housing affects the sound upon release, variations in switch assembly or tuning could lead to distinct typing experiences. However, given that both housings are made from nylon, the foundational qualities of sound absorption and a richer sound profile remain constant.
Ultimately, both the Akko Botany and the HMX Jammy housing materials promise users a comparable experience thanks to their shared nylon composition. This similarity ensures that typists will enjoy sound characteristics that are consistent across both models. As a result, whether favoring the Botany or the Jammy, users can anticipate a deep, full sound profile and a satisfying tactile experience while typing. The overall performance may diverge slightly due to potential design differences, but the essence of what makes each switch appealing derives from the same quality of housing material.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to distinct preferences among users. The Botany switch features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who value extended typing sessions with minimal finger fatigue. In contrast, the Jammy switch has a heavier actuation force of 57 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, which may appeal to users looking for a more substantial typing experience with a stronger tactile feedback. Therefore, if one prefers a lighter switch for comfort during long hours of use, the Akko Botany is the better option, while those seeking more resistance and a firmer feel may find the HMX Jammy more satisfying.
Travel distance
The Akko Botany linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, whereas the HMX Jammy linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This difference of 0.1 mm may seem minimal, but it can impact the feel and responsiveness of each switch. The shorter travel distance of the Botany may cater more effectively to gamers seeking quicker actuation and faster response times, while the Jammy's longer travel distance could provide a more satisfying, deeper keystroke for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the Botany offering a slight edge in responsiveness and the Jammy providing a more pronounced feedback with its longer travel distance.
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 Jammy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jammy 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
When considering the sound profile of the Akko Botany linear switch compared to the HMX Jammy linear switch, it's clear that each offers a distinct auditory experience. The Botany switches produce a crisp, lively clacky sound that engages the typist and adds an energetic flair to typing. This lively character can keep the user energized and focused, making it a great choice for those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Jammy switches, with their softer nylon housings, produce a more muted sound that creates a subtle typing ambiance. This sound profile is not only gentler on the ears but also complements a more serene workspace, making it ideal for users who prefer a quieter environment.
In terms of feel, the Botany switches deliver a more lively tactile experience, providing a sensation that is both engaging and responsive. This feedback can enhance the typing experience, giving users a clear sense of action with each keystroke. In contrast, the Jammy switches offer a medium-weight typing feel that emphasizes comfort and satisfaction. This creates a more rounded typing experience that is likely to feel smoother, appealing to those who enjoy a balanced touch without excessive resistance. Thus, while the Botany may excite with its responsiveness, the Jammy focuses on delivering a consistently pleasing experience.
Overall, the Akko Botany and HMX Jammy linear switches cater to different preferences, providing users with options based on their sound and feel preferences. If you're seeking a more lively and vocal experience, the Botany switches will meet that need, while the Jammy switches excel in offering a softer, more muted ambiance along with a comfortable feel. Choosing between them ultimately depends on whether you prioritize an energetic auditory feedback or a subdued yet satisfying tactile experience, as both will effectively enhance your overall typing experience in unique ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Akko Botany linear switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in typing feel and sound profile. If you enjoy a lighter touch with a vibrant, clacky sound that brings an energetic flair to your typing experience, then the Akko Botany switch would be an excellent choice for you. Its bottom-out force of 45 grams makes it ideal for fast typists or those who prefer a more responsive feel. On the other hand, if you favor a more muted and satisfying typing experience coupled with a slightly heavier force, the Jammy switch with its 63-gram bottom-out force might be the better option. The softer, glittery nylon housing of the Jammy enhances the tactile feel, providing a balance of comfort and solid feedback. Both switches cater to different typing experiences, so consider how you use your keyboard—be it for gaming, programming, or typing long documents—as this will guide you towards the switch that best complements your style.
Mentioned in this article
