Akko Botany vs. KTT Orange

Overview

When choosing between the Akko Botany and KTT Orange mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts are presented with distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Akko Botany switches are particularly celebrated for their lively and crisp acoustic output, delivering a satisfying clacky sound that many typists adore right out of the box. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switches offer a unique bouncy feel, thanks to their longer 22mm spring and refined design, which includes a polycarbonate top housing and a low-pitched sound profile. The factory-lubed mechanism of the KTT Orange enhances its frictionless and smooth typing experience, making it an excellent option for those who value a seamless key travel. While both switches fall into the linear category, their unique characteristics can appeal to different user preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing experience.

By the numbers

Akko Botany Linear

KTT Orange Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

$5.55

$4.15 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Botany and KTT Orange switches, we find a stark contrast in their compositions, specifically in the choice of plastics used for both the top and bottom housings. The Akko Botany features nylon for both the top and bottom housing, a material known for its softer qualities that contribute to a deeper, fuller sound profile. This softness allows the nylon to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a sound that is duller yet rounder. In contrast, the KTT Orange is constructed with polycarbonate for its top and bottom housing. Polycarbonate, a stiffer material, leads to a sharper, higher-pitched sound that resonates clearly. This distinction between the materials means that users can expect notably different auditory experiences from each switch.

Both switches’ differing materials not only affect the sound profile but also influence their aesthetic and functional characteristics. The translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for more vibrant RGB lighting effects, enhancing visual appeals in keyboards designed for illumination. In contrast, the opaque nature of nylon might not support RGB lighting to the same visual extent. However, the nylon in the Botany still offers a unique tactile experience that is appreciated by typists who favor a softer feel combined with a muted sound. The choice of housing material thus not only determines how a switch sounds but also its compatibility with visually appealing keyboard designs, suggesting that functionality and aesthetics may serve different priorities for users.

When both the top and bottom housings utilize the same material, as seen in the Botany's nylon design, the resulting sound profile is unified, while in the KTT Orange, the shared polycarbonate housing leads to a consistent crisper auditory experience. Should this not be the case, the interaction of the two materials would affect sound and feel independently, with each housing contributing to different aspects of key press dynamics. In practice, this means that while the Botany delivers a smooth and rounded typing experience that resonates deeply, the KTT Orange offers a clear and sharp feedback, making a listener's experience and personal preferences the ultimate factors in their switch choice. This allows for a tailored acoustic experience, regardless of whether the housing materials match or differ, ultimately serving diverse user needs across different typing environments.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varying preferences among typists and gamers. 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 or long gaming marathons. In contrast, the KTT Orange switch has a heavier actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, offering a more substantial push feel for those who prefer a firmer typing experience. This means that the Botany switch is better suited for users who favor lighter switches, whereas the KTT Orange will appeal to those who appreciate a bit more resistance. While the actuation and bottom out forces of both switches are distinctly different, those opting for the Botany will likely find themselves typing longer without fatigue, while Orange users may enjoy the tactile feedback of a heavier switch.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Botany linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, the Botany switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Orange measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This means that the Botany switch offers a bit more depth in its keypress, which may appeal to users who appreciate a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the KTT Orange's travel distance is marginally shorter, making it potentially more responsive for users seeking quicker actuation, particularly in gaming scenarios. Therefore, those who prioritize a deeper keypress might prefer the Botany, while gamers and those who favor swift responsiveness may opt for the Orange.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Akko Botany linear switch is characterized by a crisp and lively clack that is quite pronounced right out of the box, making it a lively addition to any keyboard setup. In contrast, the KTT Orange linear switch has a low-pitched sound profile, which is mellower and less intrusive, providing a more subtle auditory experience. This less aggressive sound can be suitable for quieter environments or for users who prefer a less pronounced acoustic feedback, and highlights that sound can be influenced by other components such as the keyboard itself and the choice of keycaps.

When it comes to feel, the Akko Botany switch has not been explicitly described, but the KTT Orange switch is noted for its bouncy and frictionless characteristics. The bouncy nature gives the typing experience a lively sensation, akin to that of a spring rebounding, which can enhance typing enjoyment. The frictionless quality contributes to a remarkably smooth travel, eliminating any sense of resistance during key presses. If the Botany switch also shares a similar feel as a linear switch, users can expect an effortless typing experience, regardless of the exact characteristics of the Botany.

In conclusion, while the Akko Botany linear switch boasts a bright and pronounced clacking sound, the KTT Orange offers a more subdued, low-pitched tone that may appeal to users looking for a quieter option. The KTT Orange is recognized for its bouncy and fluid feel, ensuring a smooth typing experience. If the Botany switch provides a similar tactile sensation, you may achieve a comparable typing experience in terms of smoothness. Ultimately, both switches have distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, while their feeling can deliver a satisfying typing experience, underscoring the diversity available in mechanical keyboard switches.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the Akko Botany linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, your decision should hinge on your personal typing preferences and the kind of experience you seek. If you enjoy a lighter touch combined with a crisp, lively clacky sound, the Akko Botany is an excellent choice, especially for fast-paced typing and gaming due to its 45-gram actuation force. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light touch that provides a bouncy feel and a smoother, more refined typing experience, the KTT Orange switch is ideal. With its 22mm long spring and factory-lubed design, it delivers a low-pitched sound profile that's perfect for those who desire a more subdued acoustics in their workspace. Ultimately, your choice will reflect whether you prioritize sound and light actuation with the Botany, or a smooth and bouncy typing experience with the KTT Orange.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Botany Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more

KTT Orange Linear

$5.55

$4.15 per 10

Learn more