Akko Botany vs. Gateron Luciola
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the Gateron Luciola switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Botany and Gateron Luciola both present unique experiences for typists and gamers alike, serving various preferences in tactile feedback and sound. The Akko Botany switches are celebrated for their crisp, lively clacky sound, offering an engaging auditory experience right out of the box. Their straight linear design is ideal for users looking for smooth key presses without obstruction, making them suitable for both typing and gaming. In contrast, the Gateron Luciola switches not only catch the eye with their glow-in-the-dark feature, but they also provide a medium heft and a smooth, bouncy typing feel. With a distinctive sound profile reminiscent of a can of spray paint being shaken, the Luciola offers users a snappy and playful typing experience. While both switches cater to enthusiasts who value sound and feel, they diverge in their auditory characteristics and visual appeal. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials used in the Akko Botany and the Gateron Luciola, notable differences emerge that significantly affect their respective sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Akko Botany utilizes a traditional nylon material for both its top and bottom housings. This choice results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing, as nylon is a softer plastic that effectively absorbs sound. The sound produced tends to be duller and rounder, providing a more muted auditory feedback which many users may find pleasant for extended typing sessions. This consistency in material contributes to a cohesive sound experience whether the key is pressed down or released.
In sharp contrast, the Gateron Luciola employs a proprietary INK blend for its housings, featuring both the top and bottom components crafted from this unique material. The INK blend is characterized by its ability to produce a thinner, higher-pitched sound that verges on clackiness. Users often enjoy the lively feedback that comes from this sound profile, which can feel more engaging during typing. The distinct 'clacky' sound produced by this material is a result of its rigidity compared to nylon, leading to a sharper auditory response that might appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced sound while typing.
While the housing materials differ greatly in terms of sound production characteristics, the impact on overall typing experience will depend on the relationship between the top and bottom housings. For both switches, the bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out feel and sound, while the top housing primarily affects the sound produced when the key is released. Consequently, users who prefer a softer and deeper auditory experience may find the Akko Botany more to their liking, whereas those seeking a lively and higher-pitched acoustic engagement will resonate more with the Gateron Luciola. Despite these differences, both switches can offer satisfactory typing experiences tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, there is a distinct difference in both actuation and bottom out forces, which influences their typing experience. The Botany switch features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for extended typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Luciola switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel while typing. Due to this variance, users may experience a radically different response when using each switch; the Botany switch is more forgiving on the fingers, while the Luciola provides a firmer resistance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference, with the Botany being lighter and ideal for prolonged use, and the Luciola feeling heavier and more grounded for those who enjoy a robust typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on the keys of both switches. This equal travel distance will provide comparable feedback and responsiveness, allowing for a consistent typing experience across devices that use either switch. Therefore, regardless of individual preferences in feel or sound, the switch's performance in terms of travel distance remains identical, ensuring that users will not notice a significant difference in the depth of key presses.
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 Gateron Luciola has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Luciola for $6.50.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Akko Botany and Gateron Luciola linear switches, the Botany is celebrated for its crisp, lively, and clacky sound. This distinct audio quality gives an immediate auditory feedback that is often described as percussive and bright, which can enhance the typing experience for users who appreciate a more resonant sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola offers a unique combination of clacky and chirpy elements, producing a sound reminiscent of a can of spray paint being shaken. This hollow yet sharp auditory signature, accompanied by a touch of resonance akin to a marbly sound, creates an engaging acoustic experience while typing, making it appealing for those who enjoy a slight depth to their keystroke sounds.
In terms of feel, the Botany switches do not have a specified tactile experience, making it difficult to draw clear comparisons. In contrast, the Gateron Luciola switches provide a medium heft that contributes to a snappy and responsive typing experience. The smoothness of the Luciola, described as buttery, ensures effortless key travel, while the polished finish further enhances the typing sensation. Users will likely enjoy a lively and enjoyable tactile response when engaging with the Luciola, resulting in a refined and effortless interaction when typing.
In conclusion, both the Akko Botany and Gateron Luciola linear switches offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Botany stands out with its lively clacky sound but lacks detailed tactile descriptions, while the Luciola shines with its engaging sound profile and an enjoyable typing experience characterized by snappy, buttery, and polished feel. Ultimately, users' preferences for sound and feel will guide their choice between these two options, as the right switch can significantly enhance their overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch will largely depend on your personal preferences regarding feel and sound. If you prefer a lighter touch and enjoy a crisp, lively sound profile, the Botany switch with its 45 grams of bottom-out force might be the ideal choice for you. It's perfect for fast typists or gamers who benefit from rapid keystrokes and appreciate a percussive auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you like a more substantial typing experience with a medium resistance, the Luciola switch, boasting a 60-gram bottom-out force, provides a snappier response that feels more grounded and balanced. The unique glowing design and its “can of spray paint” sound offer an engaging experience, particularly if you appreciate a smoother and bouncier feedback coupled with mildly whimsical aesthetics. Ultimately, your decision should be informed by whether you prioritize a lighter, more vibrant feel or a more robust, visually striking option, allowing you to tailor your keyboard to suit your specific typing style and preferences.
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