Akko Botany vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between the Akko Botany and the Gateron Melodic, each catering to different preferences and typing experiences. The Akko Botany, a linear switch, is celebrated for its crisp and lively clacky sound right out of the box, making it an excellent choice for users who seek a smooth and unobtrusive typing experience without noticeable tactile feedback. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic is a clicky switch that revives the classic clicky sound with modern advancements, such as smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, providing users with a satisfying and tactile feedback that many typists adore. While the Botany switch appeals to those prioritizing stealth and fluidity, the Melodic attracts users who appreciate auditory and tactile feedback during their typing sessions. 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
N/A
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
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Akko Botany and the Gateron Melodic switches, notable distinctions arise between their respective top housings. The Botany features a nylon top housing, a classic material known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing. Conversely, the Melodic utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, a stiffer plastic that sharpens and clarifies the sound output. This fundamental difference not only influences the acoustics of each switch—where the Botany produces a more rounded and warm tone, the Melodic offers a crisp and resonant sound—but also impacts the aesthetic appeal. Polycarbonate’s translucency makes it an ideal choice for those who wish to showcase RGB lighting, providing a vibrant backdrop that enhances the visual experience.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Akko Botany and Gateron Melodic switches utilize nylon, a material characterized by its softness and sound-absorbing qualities. This shared characteristic means that regardless of the differences in their top housings, both switches will deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile during key presses, stemming from the nylon bottom's ability to dampen vibrations. The consistency in bottom housing material ensures that both switches exhibit qualities that are parallel, allowing users to expect a similar tactile feedback and a rounder acoustic experience upon bottoming out. Therefore, while the top housing materials diverge, the common ground in the bottom housing leads to comparable sonic features during the act of typing.
The overall performance of each switch is thus a blend of their housing materials. With the Botany's nylon top and bottom housing working together to produce a rich sound experience, and the Melodic's polycarbonate top housing complementing its nylon bottom for a crisper auditory profile, both switches fulfill specific user preferences. Users seeking warmth in their typing experience may gravitate toward the Botany, while those desiring a more pronounced, bright sound may prefer the Melodic. Ultimately, the interplay between the soft nylon and the stiffer polycarbonate facilitates unique yet complementary sound characteristics, demonstrating how different materials can yield diverse but equally satisfying typing experiences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, we see distinct differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Akko Botany has a notably light actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it favorable for users seeking a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic is characterized by a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, although its actuation force is unspecified. This suggests the Melodic switch offers a more substantial feedback experience, which is ideal for users who appreciate a stronger push feel. Thus, the Botany switch is the lighter option, while the Melodic is undoubtedly heavier in terms of bottom out force. This implies that users looking for longer typing comfort should lean toward the Akko Botany, while those valuing a firmer keystroke might prefer the Gateron Melodic.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it is clear that the two differ significantly. The Akko Botany has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Gateron Melodic measures at 4 mm, which is the longer travel distance of the two. This difference could influence user preference based on their typing or gaming needs; the Botany switch may provide quicker responsiveness, which could appeal to gamers seeking faster key actuation. Conversely, the Melodic switch’s longer travel distance could be more satisfying for users who appreciate deeper keystrokes and a more pronounced typing experience. Overall, while both switches have their merits, those who lean towards faster reaction times might favor the Akko Botany, while those who enjoy a more robust feel may opt for the Gateron Melodic.
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 Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 it comes to sound, the Akko Botany switch delivers a crisp and lively clacky profile that enchants typists right out of the box. This auditory signature provides a satisfying feedback loop, enhancing the typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic switch adds depth with its resonant and crunchy characteristics. The resonant quality offers a higher-pitched sound profile, creating an immersive auditory environment, while the crunchy aspect resembles the sound of stepping on autumn leaves. While both switches provide distinct auditory experiences, a keyboard's overall sound will also depend on additional factors, such as the choice of board and keycaps.
Regarding feel, the Akko Botany switch is known for its smoothness and overall pleasant experience, though specifics may vary depending on individual preferences. In comparison, the Gateron Melodic switch presents a unique combination of buttery and invigorating sensations. The buttery feel ensures a seamless and fluid keystroke, while the invigorating feedback offers pronounced tactile response and a moderate to firm actuation force. This duality creates a typing experience that is both effortless and engaging.
In summary, while the Akko Botany and Gateron Melodic switches each provide their own distinct auditory and tactile experiences, both are designed to enhance the typing journey. The Botany’s crisp sound and smooth feel contrast with the Melodic’s resonant clicks and engaging feedback. Your choice ultimately depends on whether you prefer a lively keyboard experience or a combination of classic clicky sounds with enhanced smoothness and tactile feedback. Each switch has its strengths, enabling typists to customize their experience based on personal preference.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter touch with a crisp, lively sound, the Botany switch is an excellent choice, especially for tasks that require quick typing for extended periods without much fatigue. Its lower actuation force of 45 grams and smooth keystroke make it ideal for those who enjoy a more fluid typing experience and want minimal resistance. On the other hand, if you appreciate tactile feedback and the satisfying auditory response of a clicky switch, the Gateron Melodic would serve you well. With a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, it provides a more substantial feel and enhances the auditory experience through its resonant and crunchy sound profile. The smoothness afforded by its factory lubing and innovative Dual-Rail design further enhances the typing experience, making it suitable for both gaming and typing when you want that classic clicky satisfaction. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you value a lighter, quieter switch or a more tactile, audible feel to your keystrokes.
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