Akko Botany vs. Neo Lavender HE
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the Neo Lavender HE switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Botany and the Neo Lavender HE present distinct yet appealing choices for different preferences and typing experiences. The Akko Botany, recognized for its crisp, lively clacky sound straight out of the box, offers a dynamic tactile feedback that many typists and gamers find satisfying, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy auditory and tactile engagement while typing. Conversely, the Neo Lavender HE features a clean, low sound profile and stands out with its compatibility with Wooting keyboards, utilizing innovative hall effect technology for a smooth and responsive feel that appeals to users seeking a quiet yet precise experience. Each switch has its own unique strengths, catering to a variety of styles and uses. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
16mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Botany and the Neo Lavender HE, it's apparent that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. The use of nylon in both models contributes to a distinctive acoustic experience. Its softer plastic composition allows each switch to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The property of sound absorption in nylon further enhances the auditory experience, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that many users appreciate. This similarity in materials ensures that both switches will deliver comparable sound characteristics, making them attractive options for those prioritizing auditory feedback in their typing experience.
While the Akko Botany and Neo Lavender HE share the same housing materials, the impact of these components can vary depending on the design and tuning of each switch. In configurations where the top and bottom housings differ, the characteristics of each housing impact the overall sensation when typing. For example, while both switches will exhibit similar sound profiles, the specific bottom housing may contribute more to the feel of bottoming out, whereas the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. As such, even with identical materials, the way that a user experiences the switch can vary depending on the switch's overall design and the interaction of the housing materials.
In summary, both Akko's Botany and Neo Lavender HE utilize nylon housings to create a comparable sound profile characterized by depth and fullness. With both models embracing the properties of this classic switch housing material, they are likely to yield similar auditory results when typing. However, the nuanced differences in the switches' overall design, along with how each housing interacts with the overall switch mechanism, may ultimately lead to varied typing experiences. Thus, while the materials are the same, the execution in each switch's design offers a unique feel and sound dynamic, appealing to different user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, we find that both feature relatively light forces, making them suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. The Botany switch has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Lavender HE switch has slightly higher values with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Despite these differences, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Botany being the lighter option of the two. Users who prefer a lighter feel may gravitate towards the Botany switch for its lower actuation and bottom out forces, emphasizing a quick and responsive keystroke. On the other hand, those who enjoy a bit more resistance might prefer the Lavender HE switch, which offers a slightly heavier tactile experience. Overall, while both switches cater to light typists, the subtle differences in actuation and bottom out forces could influence user preference based on individual typing styles.
Travel distance
The Akko Botany linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Botany the shorter option between the two, appealing to gamers or users who prefer quicker, more responsive keystrokes. In contrast, the Lavender HE, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more satisfying tactile feel for those who appreciate deeper key presses, offering a more substantial feedback upon activation. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on your preference for either responsive speed or a more pronounced keystroke depth.
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 Neo Lavender HE comes in at $4.50 per 10 switches.
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 produces a crisp, lively clack that immediately stands out when typed upon. This distinct auditory feedback is often favored by users who appreciate a bit of a spirited keypress experience. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE switch is characterized by a clean, low sound profile, which provides a more subdued acoustic experience. This subtlety makes it appealing for users seeking a quieter, yet still engaging typing environment. While both switches deliver different sound signatures, the overall perception will also be influenced by the keyboard’s build and the keycap material chosen.
When it comes to feel, the Botany switch is renowned for its smooth and consistent linear action, providing a satisfying typing experience with minimal resistance until bottoming out. This seamless response can enhance both gaming and typing performance, making it a versatile option. On the other hand, the Lavender HE switch offers a unique hall effect mechanism that may introduce a different tactile sensation, though specifics about the exact feel are unknown. Users looking for a more experimental typing sensation might gravitate towards the Lavender HE, especially if they enjoy the concept of magnetically actuated switches.
Overall, the Akko Botany and Neo Lavender HE switches cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. The Botany's lively acoustic profile and smooth feel make it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more traditional linear experience, while the Lavender HE appeals to those looking for a quieter yet distinct typing sound with an innovative actuation method. Ultimately, your choice between these two will depend on your personal taste in sound and feel, but either way, you will have a compelling option for your mechanical keyboard needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch ultimately depends on your preferences for sound, feel, and specific use cases. If you're looking for a lively and crisp clacky sound that makes each keystroke feel more energetic, the Botany switch is an excellent choice. Its lighter bottom-out force of 45 grams also makes it easier to press, which can enhance typing speed and may be particularly appealing if you enjoy a more responsive feel while gaming or typing for extended periods. On the other hand, if you prefer a clean, low sound profile and a slightly firmer feel with a bottom-out force of 50 grams, the Lavender HE could be the better option for you. This switch is particularly noteworthy if you use Wooting keyboards, as it’s designed to take advantage of their capabilities, giving you a unique experience with magnetic technology. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize the lively auditory feedback and lighter press of the Botany or the clean sound and firmer resistance of the Lavender HE, tailoring your choice to the specific activities and ambience you desire in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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