Akko Botany vs. Gazzew LT
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the Gazzew LT switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular linear options are the Akko Botany and the Gazzew LT, each offering unique characteristics suited to different typing preferences. The Botany switches are celebrated for their remarkably crisp and lively clacky sound, making them an appealing choice for those who enjoy an audible feedback while typing, which can enhance the overall experience and engagement. In contrast, the Gazzew LT switches, with their enticing lilac hue, deliver a deep, resonant thockiness that provides a satisfying auditory response without the extra noise, making them an excellent option for users who prefer a quieter yet still impactful keystroke. While both switches are designed for smooth typing experiences, the Botany leans towards a brighter sound profile, whereas the LT offers a richer, bassy quality. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Botany and the Gazzew LT are notable for their contributions to sound and typing experience. Both the Botany and the LT employ softer plastic materials, specifically nylon for the Botany and a proprietary blend known as "boba plastic" for the LT. The softer nature of these materials is key, as they are designed to provide a deeper, fuller sound profile. The nylon used in the Botany is a classic choice, well-regarded for its ability to absorb sound and create a duller, rounder auditory profile, while the Gazzew blend similarly promises a rich sound due to its inherent softness. In essence, both switches can achieve a desirable acoustic quality, though they utilize different materials to get there.
In terms of bottom housing, the Botany again uses nylon, while the LT employs its unique Gazzew boba plastic blend. Here, the similarities in their acoustic properties persist, with both materials offering a depth and richness in sound. The key difference lies in the specific characteristics of each material. While nylon has a long-established reputation in the keyboard community for sound dampening and a particular feel, the Gazzew blend may provide a unique texture or response that enhances the overall experience for users who are keen on experimenting with different switch compositions. Therefore, when pressed down, the qualities of these materials—though distinct—are aimed at creating a cohesive sound experience with a slightly different tactile feedback.
Ultimately, the difference in housing materials results in a nuanced experience for each switch. When typing, users can expect that the bottom housing will significantly impact the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will govern the sound associated with releasing the key. In practical terms, despite the distinctions between the Nylox and the Gazzew blend, both switches will deliver a similar auditory experience thanks to their commitment to soft materials that absorb sound and enrich the overall acoustic profile. Consequently, enthusiasts accustomed to the Botany might find a pleasingly familiar sound and feel when transitioning to the Gazzew LT, as each switch's design philosophy aims to offer a satisfying and resonant typing experience.
Weight
The Akko Botany linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch present contrasting characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Botany switch features a light actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Gazzew LT switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is classified as medium-heavy, though its actuation force is unknown. This weightier bottom out may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Consequently, the Botany switch is the lighter option, while the LT is the heavier switch. Users looking for a more delicate response should lean toward the Botany, whereas those favoring a stronger push feel may be inclined to try the LT. Therefore, if both were to share similar actuation forces, you would expect comparable responsiveness in typing dynamics, but in this case, the differences in their forces highlight the distinct preferences they cater to.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, we find that they differ in their specifications. The Botany switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the LT switch measures a shorter 3.2 mm. This means that if you prefer a more responsive experience, the Gazzew LT with its shorter distance may be the better choice, as it allows for quicker actuation, which can be beneficial for gamers seeking speed. On the other hand, the Akko Botany, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback and a heartier depth when typing. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you prioritize responsiveness or a more traditional feel in your typing experience.
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 Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50 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 and lively clacky sound straight out of the box, making it an excellent choice for users who enjoy a more upbeat auditory feedback during typing. In contrast, the Gazzew LT linear switch is characterized by a deep, resonant thockiness that many typists find appealing. These switches create a lower-frequency auditory profile, described as bassy and low-pitched, resulting in a satisfying "thud" with each keystroke. While both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, the Botany leans towards a brighter sound while the LT provides a richer, more profound auditory sensation.
When it comes to feel, the Botany switch is known for its smooth keypress and responsive action, which many find enjoyable for both gaming and typing. The tactile feedback is commendable, but specific descriptions about its texture and travel characteristics may remain unknown. The Gazzew LT switch is similarly praised for its seamless glide during keystrokes, ensuring effortless motion. Though the exact tactile feedback of the LT isn’t specified, it can be inferred that both switches provide a pleasant typing experience, though perhaps each with its unique subtleties.
In conclusion, the Akko Botany and Gazzew LT linear switches each offer a distinct auditory and tactile experience suitable for various preferences. While the Botany is favored for its lively, clacky sound, the LT impresses with its deep, thocky resonance. Both switches provide a smooth feel and satisfying typing experience, though they cater to different auditory tastes. Therefore, selecting between these two will ultimately come down to whether you prefer a brighter, more vibrant sound or a richer, deeper thock.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of 45 grams, and enjoy a lively and crisp sound profile, the Botany might be more suited to your needs, particularly if you appreciate a more responsive feel when typing quickly. This switch excels in environments where you want to keep a light and bouncy typing experience, often appealing to gamers or those who type rapidly. On the other hand, if you prefer a more robust typing experience with a firmer bottom-out force of 65 grams, the Gazzew LT is a fantastic option. These switches provide a deeper, bassy sound that produces a satisfying thock with each keystroke, making them ideal for those who relish a more tactile and auditory feedback while typing. This switch is perfect for typists who enjoy the solidity and richness in sound that enhances their keyboard experience. Therefore, consider your typing habits and sound preferences carefully to select the switch that will best elevate your mechanical keyboard game.
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