Akko Botany vs. HMX Lucky

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Botany and the HMX Lucky both offer unique traits that cater to different user preferences. The Akko Botany switches are celebrated for their lively, crisp clacky sound that brings a dynamic auditory experience right out of the box, making them an appealing choice for those who enjoy a more engaging typing environment. In contrast, the HMX Lucky switches provide a softer touch with their glittery nylon housings, delivering a neutral yet deeply satisfying typing experience that may be preferred by users looking for a smooth and polished feel. While both switches are linear and share some similarities, their sound profiles and tactile responses set them apart and can significantly influence your typing enjoyment. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Akko Botany Linear

HMX Lucky Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the Akko Botany and HMX Lucky employ nylon as the primary material for their top and bottom housings, which is notable for its classic qualities in switch design. The nylon top housing in both models contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, which is largely due to nylon's relatively softer nature compared to harder plastics. This softness allows for better sound absorption, resulting in a rounder and more muted auditory experience while typing. Thus, when considering the sound characteristics of both switches, users can expect similar outcomes due to their identical material choice, leading to a consistent performance in acoustic dampening and tactile feedback.

In addition to their shared top housing material, the nylon bottom housing of both switches further solidifies their comparable performance. Just like the top housing, the nylon bottom contributes to the overall sound profile, but with a particular emphasis on the bottom-out feel and sound. Their identical construction means that the impact of the bottom housing is equally significant in both models when a key is pressed down. Consequently, users will experience a similar tactile resistance and auditory feedback in each switch, creating consistency across the typing experience regardless of the switch's branding.

While the materials in both the Akko Botany and HMX Lucky are identical, it is important to recognize that the overall behavior of the switch could vary slightly based on design nuances or other components. However, since both switches are composed entirely of nylon for both their top and bottom housings, the qualities that inform their acoustic characteristics and tactile responses will be harmoniously aligned. Therefore, whether you’re typing on the Botany or the Lucky, you can expect a cohesive auditory and tactile profile that enhances the overall typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch, both options offer a relatively light typing experience, making them suitable for users looking to engage in prolonged typing or gaming sessions. The Botany switch features an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Lucky switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This means that the Lucky switch requires marginally less force to actuate, making it the lighter choice between the two. Both switches have similar overall characteristics, as they both fall into the light category, so users can expect comparable typing experiences in terms of force feedback. However, the Botany switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force, which may provide a more substantial feel when bottoming out compared to the Lucky switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two may come down to personal preference for that additional tactile feedback or a marginally lighter touch.

Travel distance

Comparing the travel distances of the Akko Botany linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch reveals that they are not equal. The Akko Botany features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Lucky offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Botany the shorter option, appealing to those who prioritize responsiveness and quicker actuation, which can enhance gaming performance. On the other hand, the Lucky’s longer travel distance may cater to users who enjoy a more substantial feel with each keystroke, potentially preventing the experience from feeling too abrupt. Therefore, your choice will depend on your preference for either a shorter, more responsive switch or a longer, more substantial one.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Akko Botany linear switch is renowned for producing a crisp, lively clacky sound, making it an engaging choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback during their typing sessions. This lively sound profile can add a layer of satisfaction to each keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Lucky switch's sound is not explicitly detailed, but given its description, it implies a lighter and perhaps less pronounced auditory response compared to the Botany. The Botany’s sharper, more pronounced clack ensures that users seeking a more dynamic sound will gravitate towards it, while the Lucky may cater to those who prefer a subtler, less intrusive sound.

When it comes to feel, the Akko Botany lacks detailed characterizations, so it’s challenging to compare it directly with the HMX Lucky. However, the Lucky switches are distinguished by their bouncy, silky, and polished characteristics. This means they provide a spring-like feedback that feels lively and satisfying, coupled with a smooth and refined typing experience. The better-defined feel of the Lucky switches suggests that they are designed for users who appreciate seamless key travel and minimal resistance. If the Botany switches offer a comparable typing experience, it would likely be less articulated in its feedback profile, leaving room for personal preference between the two.

In conclusion, while the Akko Botany linear switch excels in delivering a distinctive and engaging auditory experience, the HMX Lucky provides a smooth, refined feel with a focus on comfort. Users who appreciate crisp sounds and tactile feedback may prefer the Botany, while those inclined towards a polished and bouncy typing experience will likely favor the Lucky. The ultimate choice will depend on individual preferences, but both switches can yield satisfying outcomes tailored to different aspects of typing enjoyment.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Akko Botany linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch should hinge on your preferences for sound and tactile feedback. If you’re seeking a switch that offers a lively and crisp typing experience, the Botany is an excellent choice, especially if you enjoy the satisfying clacky sound that comes with each keystroke. Its bottom-out force of 45 grams is light and suitable for those who favor a bit of auditory feedback while typing. Conversely, if you prefer a more subdued sound profile combined with an exceptionally smooth and bouncy feel, the HMX Lucky switch is ideal. With a slightly lighter bottom-out force of 43 grams, you’ll get a deeper, softer experience that feels refined and polished, perfect for long hours of typing or gaming where comfort is a priority. Ultimately, consider what aspects—sound, feel, or a balance of both—matter most to you in your mechanical keyboard experience, as your choice will significantly enhance your typing dynamics.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Botany Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more

HMX Lucky Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more