Akko Botany vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Botany and KTT Matcha offer distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Akko Botany, categorized as a linear switch, is celebrated for its lively clacky sound, providing a satisfying auditory response straight out of the box, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a smooth and uninterrupted keypress along with a bit of acoustic feedback. In contrast, the KTT Matcha presents itself as a tactile switch, characterized by its comfortable, snappy tactility that enhances typing precision. This switch features a long pole stem which contributes to a clean bottom-out sound, appealing to users who appreciate the tactile feedback without the harsh noise. While the Botany is ideal for those who prefer a linear feel with pronounced sound, the Matcha caters to enthusiasts seeking a delightful tactile sensation with a quieter typing experience. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Akko Botany and KTT Matcha keyboards showcase a distinct contrast in their housing materials, which significantly influences their acoustic profiles and tactile experiences. The Botany employs nylon for both its top and bottom housings, known for its softness and sound-absorbing qualities. This characteristic allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, essentially creating a warmer auditory experience. In contrast, the Matcha's choice of polycarbonate for its top and bottom housings results in a sharper and crisper sound. Polycarbonate's rigidity contributes to a more resonant and clear sound profile, which many users might find ideal for tasks requiring precision or when utilizing RGB lighting, where the translucency adds an eye-catching aesthetic.
While both keyboards offer unique sound profiles, the differences are pronounced not only in their materials but also in how these materials shape the overall typing experience. The nylon used in the Botany creates a duller and rounder sound that resonates more profoundly on the bottom-out stroke of each keypress. Conversely, the KTT Matcha's crisp acoustics provide a more vibrant sound upon key release, thanks to the polycarbonate construction. If a user desires a more balanced auditory feedback from both switches, it would be beneficial to consider how the softer nylon dampens the sound from the Botany, creating a more muted typing experience compared to the bright, resonating tones produced by the Matcha.
In situations where a keyboard features mixed housing materials, the traditional nature of nylon in the Botany pairs exquisitely with the modern, high-tech feel of polycarbonate in the Matcha. While the colors and sounds differ, using a combination of these materials could lead to a highly nuanced keyboard experience with rich audio characteristics. Ultimately, both keyboards can yield satisfying results depending on personal preferences, whether one seeks a deeper, more encapsulated sound profile like that of the Botany or a sharper, more defined auditory response offered by the KTT Matcha. Each type of housing informs the signature sound and feel of the switch, thereby appealing to diverse user preferences and applications.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, we find that both switches have similar bottom out forces of 45 grams, indicating they provide a comparable resistance when pressed all the way down. However, the actuation forces differ slightly, with the Botany requiring 38 grams to trigger a keystroke, making it the lighter option, while the Matcha demands a slightly heavier 40 grams. This difference in actuation force may appeal to users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, as the Botany's lighter force could facilitate more extended typing sessions without fatigue. Conversely, users who enjoy a more substantial tactile feedback might favor the Matcha for its heavier actuation force, even though both switches maintain a light overall feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on whether one prioritizes a lighter touch or a slightly more forceful response in their typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Botany linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, a clear contrast emerges. The Botany switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Matcha switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Botany switch is the shorter option, catering to those who prefer quicker response times, such as gamers who favor a more immediate feedback when pressing keys. In contrast, the Matcha switch offers a more traditional feel with its longer travel distance, which some users may find more satisfying due to its greater depth. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for responsiveness versus a more substantial tactile 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 KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 switch is characterized by a lively and clacky acoustic profile, delivering a crisp and bright tone with every keystroke. This sharp auditory feedback can enhance the typing experience, particularly for users who appreciate a percussive sound when typing. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha switch also produces a clean sound but with a distinctly different character, as it generates a notably satisfying bottom-out thud due to its long pole stem design. While the Botany is more about a consistent clacky sound throughout, the Matcha’s acoustics can create an enjoyable contrast between the initial keystroke and bottom-out noise. Ultimately, both switches offer unique sound signatures that can be influenced by the specific keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Botany switch doesn’t have specific descriptors provided, leaving its tactile characteristics somewhat ambiguous. In contrast, the KTT Matcha is well-regarded for its comfortable and snappy tactile feedback, characterized by a stepped tactile sensation. This means that users can feel distinct stages in the keystroke, offering a more nuanced typing experience without being overwhelming. The Matcha switch is also known for being snappy and accentuated, providing a lively typing feel that can keep users engaged, especially during extended sessions. Additionally, its subtle and feathery properties further contribute to a light, responsive feel, making it suitable for both gaming and prolonged typing tasks. This comprehensive tactile feedback sets the Matcha apart while the specifics of the Botany’s feel remain less defined.
In conclusion, both the Akko Botany linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch offer appealing qualities to different types of users. The Botany excels with its lively and clacky sound, while the Matcha presents a unique combination of tactile feedback with clean acoustic performance. If you are drawn to crisp, bright sounds and a more linear feel, the Botany could be an ideal choice. Conversely, for those who value a snappy tactile response and a satisfying bottom-out noise, the Matcha is likely to provide a more enjoyable experience. Ultimately, your choice should align with your personal preferences regarding sound and feel, and both switches can deliver pleasing results depending on what you prioritize.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Akko Botany linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you value a lightweight and lively typing experience with a crisp, clacky sound that can energize your workspace, the Botany switch will likely be the best fit. It's well-suited for those who appreciate a smooth keystroke without tactile distractions, making it ideal for fast typists and gamers who rely on swift key presses. On the other hand, if you're drawn to a tactile response and enjoy a snappy feel with a clean sound profile, the KTT Matcha switch would be your go-to choice. The Matcha's comfortable yet pronounced tactility is perfect for typists who prefer a bit of feedback with each stroke, without overwhelming their fingers, and it works well in quieter settings due to its mild sound. By considering these characteristics alongside your typing style and environment, you’ll be able to select the switch that enhances your overall keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
