Akko Botany vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Botany and the Outemu Blue present intriguing yet distinct options for users seeking different typing experiences. The Akko Botany is celebrated for its smooth linear action, allowing for fluid keystrokes that make it ideal for gaming and fast-paced typing, providing a quiet and unobtrusive experience. In contrast, the Outemu Blue is recognized for its tactile feedback and audible click, delivering a classic typewriter-like sensation that many find satisfying for both typing and programming tasks. While the Botany's seamless strokes lend themselves to a more understated and efficient atmosphere, the Blue's pronounced sound and feel offer a more traditional typing experience that resonates with enthusiasts who appreciate auditory cues. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your unique needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Botany and the Outemu Blue switches, a distinct contrast emerges in their respective top housings. The Botany features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to absorb sound, producing a deeper, fuller auditory experience. This softer plastic contributes to a duller sound profile, which many users find appealing for a more muted typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Blue’s top housing is made of polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The clarity and resonance of the polycarbonate housing enhance the overall acoustic feedback of each keystroke, making for a crisper typing experience that enthusiasts often prefer. Thus, while both switches excel in delivering enjoyable acoustic feedback, their differing materials yield notably different sound profiles during use.
Interestingly, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which means that certain acoustic characteristics are retained in both models, particularly when it comes to the sound produced when a key is bottomed out. The use of nylon in the Botany and Blue’s bottom housings allows for a deeper and rounder sound due to its softer properties, which absorb sound effectively. Therefore, even though the top housings differ significantly—resulting in contrasting auditory experiences—the similar bottom housing material means that the switches still express similar sound qualities when fully pressed. This amalgamation can create a blended audio profile when typing, where the defining attributes from each housing play together, softening the overall sound during keypresses.
Further consideration should be given to how different housing materials can affect user experience. While the top housing largely influences the release sound, the bottom housing shapes the feel and sound during the actuation phase. Thus, the nylon bottom housing produces a consistent, rounded sound that benefits both switches. Users who prefer a more tactile and muted experience may lean towards the Akko Botany, while those who desire a sharp and resonant typing feel may favor the Outemu Blue. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference in sound profile and feedback, yet the common nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches retain a cohesive acoustic foundation.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, there are notable differences in actuation forces that cater to various typing preferences. The Akko Botany switch features a relatively light actuation force of 38 grams, making it an excellent option for those who prioritize comfort during prolonged typing sessions, whether at work or during extended gaming marathons. Its bottom out force is 45 grams, indicating that while it offers a gentle touch for actuation, it provides slightly more resistance when fully pressed. In contrast, the Outemu Blue switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. However, its bottom out force is unknown, leaving some uncertainty regarding the overall tactile experience. As a result, the Akko Botany is the lighter option, promoting a feather-light typing feel, while the Outemu Blue appeals to those who enjoy a stronger push, making it the heavier choice between the two. Overall, the different actuation characteristics suggest that users' preferences will heavily influence their choice between these two switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Botany linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, there is a distinct difference between the two. The Botany switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Blue switch measures 4 mm. This makes the Botany the shorter option, catering to those who prefer a more responsive feel with quicker actuation suitable for gaming. Conversely, the Outemu Blue's longer travel distance of 4 mm provides a more pronounced tactile feedback which some users may find preferable for typing or a more traditional experience. As such, if gamers prioritize rapid response times, the Akko Botany would be a more suitable choice, whereas those seeking a deeper keystroke might opt for the Outemu Blue.
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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 best known for producing a crisp and lively clacky sound straight out of the box, making it an attractive choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Blue clicky switch is known for its clicky sound characteristic of traditional clicky switches, enhancing the typing experience with a distinct tactile and auditory response. Therefore, if you're seeking a more pronounced listening experience, both switches offer engaging sound profiles, but the Botany will provide a livelier presence right from the start.
When it comes to feel, the Botany linear switch offers a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile bump that might interrupt your flow, which many users appreciate for a seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch combines a tactile bump with the click sound, providing a more dynamic feedback with each press, appealing to users who prefer a more traditional typing experience. Thus, while the Botany provides a fluid feel ideal for rapid typing, the Outemu Blue caters to those who like to feel each keystroke distinctly.
In summation, the Akko Botany linear and Outemu Blue clicky switches cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. The Botany excels in delivering a lively and crisp audio experience, coupled with a smooth keystroke, making it suitable for those who prioritize fluid typing without interruptions. Meanwhile, the Outemu Blue offers a satisfying click and tactile feedback, ideal for users who enjoy a more traditional typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you lean toward auditory engagement or tactile feedback in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the environment in which you will be using your keyboard. If you favor a lighter touch and a smooth keystroke experience with a distinct and lively sound, the Akko Botany linear switches are an excellent choice. They’re suitable for those who enjoy a more fluid typing experience while still appreciating some auditory feedback without the piercing click associated with other switch types. On the other hand, if you thrive on tactile feedback and enjoy the distinctive click sound when you type, the Outemu Blue switches may be more aligned with your needs. They provide a satisfying auditory cue that can enhance your typing experience, especially if you are in a setting where the sound won't be disruptive to others. Ultimately, your decision should factor in both your typing style and the setting in which you'll be using the keyboard, ensuring that your choice reflects your personal preferences and working environment.
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