Akko Botany vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly impact both typing experience and performance. The Akko Botany linear switch stands out for its smooth keypresses and relatively silent operation, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize fluidity and minimal distractions during prolonged typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch offers a distinctive tactile and audible feedback with its clicky design, delivering a satisfying "clack" with each keystroke that appeals to typists and gamers who enjoy a more engaging and interactive experience. While the Botany is perfect for those who prefer a seamless and quieter typing feel, the Dustproof Blue is ideal for those who thrive on auditory feedback and a more tactile engagement. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
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 Outemu Dustproof Blue switches, it's clear that there is a significant distinction in their top housing elements. The Akko Botany features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic stems from nylon's softer nature, which effectively absorbs sound waves, leading to a sound that is both rounded and dulled. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Blue employs a polycarbonate top housing that contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances resonance and clarity, making it particularly appealing for users who favor a more articulate auditory experience when typing. This key difference means that users of the Botany will likely enjoy a warmer sound, while users of the Dustproof Blue will benefit from a more resonant and precise sound signature.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of both the Akko Botany and Outemu Dustproof Blue share a similarity, as both utilize nylon material. This congruence in bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, as it absorbs more sound due to nylon's softer texture. Therefore, while the top housings of the switches diverge, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that when typing, both switches will deliver a similar bottom-out sound and feel. This reinforces the notion that despite the contrasting auditory characteristics induced by their top housings, the deeper tonal qualities brought forth by their identical bottom housings create a unified experience at the point of actuation.
In essence, the two switch types can evoke similar results courtesy of their shared nylon bottom housing, despite their differing top housing materials. When pressing either switch, the nylon bottom’s capacity to absorb sound will render a deeper sound experience, regardless of the sharper sound profile of the Dustproof Blue when releasing the keys. Thus, while users may notice the distinctions in auditory qualities with key releases due to the top housing materials, the foundational experience of typing on these switches can feel more congruent because of their nylon bottom housings. This interplay of materials highlights how even within contrasts, there are unifying elements that can yield a similar experience across different mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Botany switch features a light actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an ideal choice for users who prefer lighter switches for extended typing sessions or gaming, as it minimizes finger fatigue over time. In contrast, the Dustproof Blue switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, appealing to those who desire a more substantial typing experience due to the increased resistance. This significant difference means that while the Botany switch is lighter and allows quicker keystrokes with less effort, the Dustproof Blue switch provides a firmer push that some may find satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on personal preference for typing feel, with the Botany being suitable for longer use and the Dustproof Blue providing a more pronounced tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The Akko Botany linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option when compared to the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, which has a travel distance of 4.0 mm. This difference in travel distance can influence the typing experience; the Botany's shorter travel may provide a quicker response suitable for gamers or those who favor rapid key presses, while the Dustproof Blue's longer travel distance may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial and tactile feedback during typing. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Akko Botany switch would be a better choice, whereas if you enjoy a deeper keystroke, the Outemu Dustproof Blue may be more to your liking.
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 Dustproof 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 switches produce a crisp, lively clacky sound that is engaging right from the moment you start typing. This auditory feedback can enhance the typing experience, making each keystroke feel satisfying and encouraging. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches do not have a specific sound profile attributed to them, leaving their acoustic characteristics largely undefined. However, being a clicky switch, it can be expected that the Dustproof Blue will provide a distinct clicking sound with each keypress, reminiscent of traditional clicky switches, although this can vary based on the keyboard build and keycap material.
When it comes to feel, the Botany linear switches are designed for smoothness, providing an uninterrupted keystroke experience that is ideal for fast typists or gamers who prefer a seamless operation without tactile bumps. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches are typically designed with a tactile bump and a click, delivering a more pronounced feedback upon actuation. This tactile response can be great for typists who enjoy the sensation of engaging the switch and knowing exactly when their keystroke has registered, though it may not be to everyone's taste, especially for those who prefer linear switches.
In summary, the Akko Botany linear switch offers a crisp sound and a smooth keystroke experience, while the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch provides a tactile feel with a notable click sound. If you're deciding between the two, the Botany is better suited for those looking for a quieter, smoother typing experience, whereas the Dustproof Blue caters to users who enjoy tactile feedback and audible confirmation while typing. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel, as both switches deliver unique experiences within the mechanical keyboard landscape.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the type of feedback you desire from your keyboard. If you favor a lighter touch and a smooth typing experience enriched by a crisp sound, the Botany switch would be an excellent choice for you. Its lighter actuation force of 45 grams makes it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, where quick and effortless key presses are crucial. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile and pronounced feedback combined with a slightly heavier keystroke, the Dustproof Blue is suited for you. Although it lacks the sharp sound of the Botany switch, its 65-gram force offers a satisfying resistance that some typists prefer, especially for those who appreciate the nostalgic feel of clicky switches. Ultimately, consider the sound you desire, the force needed for your typing style, and whether you prefer a smooth or tactile experience when making your decision between these two distinctive switches.
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