Akko Botany vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Botany and Cherry MX Orange represent two appealing yet distinct options for users seeking a superior typing experience. Akko's Botany switches are celebrated for their crisp, lively clacky sound that provides an engaging auditory feedback, making them a great choice for those who enjoy the classic mechanical sound while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switches are a reimagining of a sought-after original, enhanced with MX2A generation improvements to meet high demand. While both options are linear switches known for their smooth keystrokes and consistent performance, the Botany switches excel in providing a more pronounced auditory sensation, while the MX Orange switches lean towards the refined, modern feel that Cherry's reputation assures. Depending on whether you prefer a vibrant sound profile or a dependable, upgraded classic, each switch offers unique advantages to cater to different typing styles and preferences. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Nylon
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 comparing the housing materials of the Akko Botany and the Cherry MX Orange, it is notable that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This uniformity in material choice means that both switches are likely to produce a similar tactile and auditory experience. Nylon is known for its softer nature compared to harder plastics, allowing it to absorb sound and create a deeper and fuller sound profile. As a result, users can expect that both the Botany and the MX Orange will deliver a rounded sound, benefiting from the materials’ characteristics that dampen harsh acoustic frequencies and promote a more muted keypress experience.
The impact of the nylon housing on the performance of these switches extends to the discussion of how the top and bottom housings influence the overall typing experience. Since both the Akko Botany and the Cherry MX Orange have identical materials for their housings, the typing dynamics will remain consistent across both models. The softer nylon of the bottom housing contributes significantly to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the release sound when a key is released. Thus, both switches can maintain a cohesive auditory environment, as they are fundamentally shaped by the same material properties.
In practice, this means that users of either the Akko Botany or Cherry MX Orange switches can anticipate similar tactile feedback and sound characteristics while typing. The combined effect of nylon in both the top and bottom housings ensures that the overall performance is not only harmonious but also delivers a satisfying auditory experience for typists. If a user is looking for a specific sound profile or typing feel, they can be confident that both switches will perform similarly due to their shared housing material, making choice largely a matter of personal aesthetic and brand preference rather than significant differences in performance.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, significant differences in their actuation forces are evident. The Botany switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, which can be particularly advantageous during long work sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switch features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial tactile feedback and a stronger push feel. Additionally, while the Botany's bottom out force is at 45 grams, the bottom out force for the MX Orange is not specified, leaving that aspect unknown. Consequently, given the known forces, the Akko Botany switch is the lighter option, while the Cherry MX Orange is the heavier one, appealing to different user preferences in terms of typing comfort and intensity.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Botany linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, the Botany features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the MX Orange has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference highlights a clear preference between the two switches: the Botany is better suited for gamers seeking quicker response times due to its reduced distance, while the MX Orange may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial key press and the tactile feedback that comes with the longer travel. Ultimately, if you prioritize responsiveness and agility in your keystrokes, the Akko Botany would be the ideal choice; however, if you prefer a deeper, more deliberate typing experience, the Cherry MX Orange would be more aligned with your needs.
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 Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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 is characterized by a crisp, lively clacky sound that resonates distinctly when activated, giving it a somewhat percussive quality that adds a lively ambiance to typing and gaming experiences. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switch has been updated to retain the original characteristics of its predecessor, providing a smoother, quieter typing experience. While the MX Orange is generally designed to be less vocal, boasting a more refined sound profile, both switches can be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycap materials, which can further alter their audible signature.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Botany linear switch is reputed for its smooth actuation, allowing for seamless key presses that cater to both typists and gamers alike. It tends to have a slight responsiveness that can enhance typing fluidity. Conversely, the Cherry MX Orange switch offers a well-balanced feel with a slightly firmer actuation. It is tailored more for users looking for tactile feedback without a distinct click, providing a solid yet smooth typing surface that many find satisfying over long periods of use.
In conclusion, while the Akko Botany linear switch delivers a crisp sound and a responsive feel, the Cherry MX Orange switch offers a quieter operation with a reliable and solid typing experience. Both of these switches cater to different preferences but can yield similar typing results depending on personal style and surrounding factors, such as the keyboard build and keycap selection. If you're a newcomer, exploring both can help you determine how sound and feel impact your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange switch largely depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you prefer a lighter switch with a vibrant auditory feedback, the Akko Botany might be your ideal choice, especially if you enjoy a more engaging typing experience with its lively clacky sound. This switch’s 45-gram actuation force makes it suitable for prolonged typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, if you are in search of a tactile experience that combines moderate resistance with an enhanced sound profile due to its heritage design, the Cherry MX Orange could be the better fit—celebrated for its originality and reliability. The MX Orange is particularly appealing for gamers who appreciate a switch that can handle rapid key presses without overwhelming noise. By assessing your typing style—the need for sound feedback versus a quieter experience—and the weight of the switch that feels most comfortable for you, you can make an informed decision on which switch will enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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