Akko Botany vs. Keygeek Keylin
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the Keygeek Keylin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Botany and Keygeek Keylin linear switches each offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Akko Botany is celebrated for its lively, crisp clacky sound, providing an engaging auditory experience right out of the box. This switch is ideal for users who enjoy a tactile feedback and a pronounced acoustic profile, making it a vibrant choice for both gaming and typing. In contrast, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch utilizes innovative molds to deliver a premium typing experience characterized by exceptional smoothness and rich acoustics. This switch is perfect for those who prioritize the fluidity of their keystrokes and prefer a quieter operation without sacrificing performance. Both switches have their merits, appealing to distinct user needs and environments; 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
38g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon Pro
Stem material
UPE
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
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Botany and Keygeek Keylin keyboards are both made from nylon, which is a traditional and widely respected choice in the mechanical keyboard community. This shared material means that both keyboards offer a typing experience characterized by a deep and full sound profile, thanks to the nylon's softer plastic composition. The nylon housings, by their nature, absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a more muted and rounded auditory signature. Thus, users can expect a similar acoustic experience from both models, highlighting the benefits of nylon as a sound-dampening material that enhances typing enjoyment.
In the case of both the Botany and Keylin, the top and bottom housings utilize the same nylon material, which preserves the consistency in sound and feel across the entire switch mechanism. This uniformity means that when a user depresses a key, they'll experience the characteristics of this nylon material in both the bottom-out sound and the actuation feel. The impact of nylon as the primary housing material makes it clear that both keyboards prioritize producing a cohesive auditory and tactile experience. The resulting sound is not only deep and full but also rounds off the sharpness often associated with harder plastics, delivering a more pleasant typing experience.
While both keyboards feature nylon for their housings, the interaction between the top and bottom materials can influence performance. Since both the Akko Botany and Keygeek Keylin utilize identical nylon materials, any variations in performance or sound profiles will be minimal. For instance, the bottom housing's qualities will affect the key’s bottom-out sound, while the top housing will primarily influence the release sound. However, with both parts being constructed from nylon, the resulting typing experience will be very similar, making either keyboard an excellent choice for enthusiasts who value a softer, more acoustically pleasing typing environment.
Weight
The Akko Botany linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch both feature an actuation force of 38 grams, indicating they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. Additionally, both are categorized as light switches, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. However, there is a distinction in their bottom out forces: the Botany bottoms out at 45 grams, while the Keylin has a heavier bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that while both switches allow for a similar initial push to register a keystroke, the Keylin provides a slightly heftier feel upon bottoming out, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Thus, those seeking a lighter feel for prolonged use may gravitate towards the Akko Botany, whereas those who prefer a firmer response could opt for the Keykeek Keylin despite both having the same actuation strength.
Travel distance
Both the Akko Botany linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which means they provide the same tactile experience when pressing down on a key. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will have comparable results in terms of key feel and responsiveness, making both switches suitable for those who prefer a consistent and smooth keystroke. As they share the same measurement, neither switch can be classified as shorter or longer; instead, they offer equal performance in this aspect.
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 Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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 best known for its crisp, lively clacky tone, which makes it quite distinct and engaging while typing. This lively sound profile is likely to resonate with users who appreciate auditory feedback; however, it's important to remember that the overall acoustics can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard casing and keycaps. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch is noted for delivering a premium typing experience with rich acoustics. This suggests that the Keylin offers a fuller, more nuanced sound that may appeal to those who prefer a more subdued auditory environment, yet still rich in character. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, personal preferences and additional components will ultimately dictate the final auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Botany switch is designed to provide a lively typing experience that may have a bit more tactile engagement compared to traditional linear switches, enhancing the feedback felt with each keystroke. This may make it a favorable choice for typists who enjoy a bit of interaction without fully committing to a tactile switch. Conversely, the Keylin switch boasts exceptional smoothness, suggesting an incredibly fluid keystroke with minimal resistance throughout the press. This ultra-smooth action can be blissful for those who prioritize a seamless typing experience without distractions. Although both switches fall within the linear category, the varying sensations they deliver can greatly influence user preference.
In conclusion, the Akko Botany and Keygeek Keylin linear switches each bring their unique characteristics to the table. The Botany’s lively clacky sound and moderately engaging feel cater to users who appreciate a bit of auditory feedback and tactile interaction. In contrast, the Keylin prioritizes rich acoustics and a remarkably smooth typing experience, appealing to those who seek a more upscale and effortless feel. Both switches offer enjoyable experiences, yet personal preference will play a significant role in determining which switch is the ideal choice for any newcomer venturing into the world of mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, with slight variations in sound and feel, either switch can deliver a satisfying typing experience, and your choice may boil down to the specific attributes you value most.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a lighter feel with a crisp, lively sound right out of the box and appreciate tactile feedback that brings a bit of character to your keystrokes, the Botany switch might be the better choice for you. Its bottom-out force of 45 grams is more accessible for those who prefer a lighter touch, making it ideal for long typing sessions or casual gaming where speed is key. On the other hand, if you seek a premium typing experience characterized by exceptional smoothness and rich acoustics, the Keylin switch, with its slightly heavier bottom-out force of 48 grams, may provide the satisfying feel you desire. Its focus on sound quality and smoother travel can enhance your overall typing experience, especially if you favor a more refined acoustic profile. Ultimately, consider how important sound and feel are in your daily use, and choose the switch that aligns with your typing needs and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
