Akko Botany vs. Jerrzi Orange
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the Jerrzi Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two notable options are the Akko Botany and the Jerrzi Orange, both of which fall under the linear category but offer distinct typing experiences. The Akko Botany switches are celebrated for their crisp, lively clacky sound right out of the box, making them an excellent choice for users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Jerrzi Orange switches provide a lightweight and feathery feel, combining an easy-to-press design with a similarly clacky yet responsive keystroke, which appeals to those who favor a more vibrant typing experience without sacrificing comfort. While both switches cater to enthusiasts who appreciate dynamic sounds, they do so in slightly different ways—one favors a pronounced acoustic response, while the other emphasizes ease of use and comfort. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko Botany and the Jerrzi Orange switch housings showcase a distinct contrast between their top materials, with the Botany utilizing a nylon top housing while the Orange employs polycarbonate. The choice of nylon for the Botany's top housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature, which absorbs sound waves and produces a more muted acoustic experience. This gives typists a more subdued auditory feedback, which some may find more pleasing or less distracting. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Orange offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, attributable to its stiffer nature. This stiffness allows for a clearer sound, which is particularly prominent when using RGB lighting due to the translucent aspect of the material, effectively enhancing the visual experience as well.
Both the Botany and Orange feature nylon as their bottom housing material, creating a unified auditory experience on this front. As a classic choice in switch housing materials, nylon continues to deliver a deep and full sound profile, resonating with the softer touch that typists might appreciate. This shared characteristic means that regardless of the differing top housings, both switches will exhibit comparable auditory qualities when it comes to bottom-out sounds. The impact of the nylon bottom housing on the overall feel of the switch is significant, providing a pleasing tactile feedback as users press down on the keys.
When considering the overall performance of these switches, users can expect a blend of sound profiles that are influenced by the unique properties of each material. While the Akko Botany delivers a richer and more rounded sound experience through its nylon top housing, the Jerrzi Orange stands out with its brighter and more resonant tones due to polycarbonate. However, the consistency of nylon in both bottom housings ensures that both switches maintain a deep auditory character, resulting in very similar bottom-out sounds despite the differences in the upper housing. Therefore, users can achieve a satisfying typing experience with either option, balancing their preferences for sound and feedback based on the combination of materials used.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, we see some interesting differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The Botany switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 38 grams, while the Jerrzi Orange switch is lighter at 37 grams—offering a bit less resistance which some users might prefer for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. However, the Botany also features a bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a tactile feedback that can enhance the typing experience. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Orange switch is unfortunately unknown, leaving us without a basis for comparison in that aspect. Overall, if you favor a lighter switch for easier keystrokes, the Jerrzi Orange could be more suitable, whereas the Akko Botany, with its heavier bottom out force, offers a more substantial feel during use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko Botany linear switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, the Botany comes in at 3.6 mm, while the Orange has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. Although the difference is minimal, it sets the Botany as the shorter option, making it potentially more appealing for gamers who prioritize brisk response times. In contrast, the Orange, with its longer travel distance, may cater to those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel, offering a heartier depth that some users enjoy. Therefore, while both switches offer relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard, the Botany provides a slightly quicker actuation for those seeking responsiveness, while the Orange may be better suited for individuals who favor a more pronounced 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 Jerrzi Orange has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $2.30.
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
In terms of sound, the Akko Botany linear switch is well-regarded for its crisp and lively clacky sound that adds an engaging auditory element to typing. This characteristic aligns with the desire for a more vibrant and expressive experience when using a keyboard. Conversely, the Jerrzi Orange switch also leans towards a clacky sound profile, being characterized as crisp and bright, but its sound is slightly more subdued. While the Orange provides that lively auditory feedback appreciated by enthusiasts, its nuanced sound signature might be perceived as less aggressive compared to the Botany's more pronounced clack. Both switches, while differing in their overall sound dynamics, ensure an engaging auditory experience shaped further by the choice of board and keycaps.
When considering the feel of these switches, the Akko Botany's qualities remain unspecified, leaving room for speculation about its tactile feedback and resistance. However, the Jerrzi Orange switches are described as feathery and easy-to-press, offering an exceptionally light touch that minimizes finger strain, which is beneficial for prolonged use. This lightweight responsiveness makes the Orange ideal for users who engage in extensive typing or gaming sessions, as it promotes comfort and efficiency. The absence of a specific description for the Botany means that those drawn to its sound will need to evaluate its feel in person to determine how it complements their typing style.
In conclusion, while both the Akko Botany and Jerrzi Orange linear switches share some commonalities, particularly in their clacky auditory profile, their distinct sound nuances and the Orange's emphasis on a lightweight and comfortable typing experience set them apart. Without information on the Botany's feel, users who favor auditory feedback may gravitate towards the Botany, while those seeking a softer touch would likely appreciate the Jerrzi Orange. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference, balancing auditory satisfaction with the tactile demands of your typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in typing feel and sound feedback. If you prefer a switch that delivers a lively, crisp auditory experience, the Botany would be your best bet with its clacky sound profile. This switch shines for users who enjoy an engaging and dynamic typing experience, thanks to its lighter bottom-out force of 45 grams, which makes it easy to type swiftly without much strain on your fingers. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that offers a more subdued sound yet still provides an audible feedback, the Jerrzi Orange switches could be more aligned with your needs. Their feather-light feel and easy-to-press design make them ideal for lengthy work or gaming sessions, as they help minimize finger fatigue. Ultimately, if you seek a responsive and vibrant typing experience, opt for the Botany; if comfort and a lighter touch are more important to you, the Jerrzi Orange would be the way to go.
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