Akko Botany vs. Outemu Ocean

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Botany and Outemu Ocean represent two distinctive choices tailored to different typing preferences. The Botany switch, a linear option, is celebrated for its smooth keystrokes and lively, crisp sound, making it a top pick for users who enjoy a rapid, uninterrupted typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Ocean switch, categorized as tactile, offers a noticeable bump during the actuation, providing tactile feedback that enhances typing accuracy and helps users feel more in control of their inputs. While the Botany switch caters to those who prefer a seamless feel and auditory feedback, the Ocean switch appeals to individuals who appreciate a more pronounced touch sensation with each keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Akko Botany Linear

Outemu Ocean Tactile

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

The Akko Botany and the Outemu Ocean displays notable differences in their top housing materials, which directly influence their acoustic profiles during typing. The Botany utilizes nylon, a softer plastic that absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This characteristic lends itself to a more muted auditory experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter, more subdued typing environment. In contrast, the Outemu Ocean employs polycarbonate for its top housing. This stiffer material produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, leading to a more resonant auditory feedback with each keystroke. The translucency of polycarbonate also serves an aesthetic purpose, allowing for better RGB lighting effects, making the Ocean visually appealing as well as audibly distinct.

However, when examining the bottom housing of both switches, we find common ground as both the Botany and Ocean feature nylon as their material. This shared choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile regardless of the different top housings. The implications for users are significant, as the properties of the nylon reveal themselves in terms of tactile feedback and acoustic dampening during use. Both switches may produce a rounder and softer sound upon bottoming out, making them suitable for those who enjoy a smooth typing experience with a strong focus on auditory comfort. This shared characteristic underscores the importance of bottom housing in contributing to the overall sound profile where the switch bottoms out.

When considering the combined effects of the different top and bottom housing materials in the Botany and Ocean, we observe a blended sound profile and typing feel. The nylon bottom housing brings a consistent depth to the auditory experience of both switches, while the top housing material dictates the clarity and sharpness of the sounds produced. For instance, in the Botany, the nylon top housing contributes to a duller sound, whereas with the Ocean, the polycarbonate top housing adds crispness. Consequently, users will experience a distinctive typing sensation based on the influence of the top housing material while still benefiting from the undeniably rich sound qualities provided by the nylon bottom housing. This contrast exemplifies how varying housing materials shape user experience, allowing for a range of auditory preferences while still achieving a level of consistency through the shared nylon base.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Botany switch features a light actuation force of 38 grams, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming, as it reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the Ocean switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, catering to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Regarding the bottom out force, the Botany switch has a defined bottom out force of 45 grams, while the bottom out force for the Ocean switch is unknown. This lack of information about the Ocean's bottom out force makes it challenging to directly compare their overall tactile feedback. However, since the Botany is consistently lighter in both measurable forces, it clearly serves those who favor lighter switches, whereas the heavier Ocean switch might appeal to users who appreciate more resistance while typing.

Travel distance

The Akko Botany linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch exhibit different travel distances that cater to diverse typing preferences. The Botany switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Ocean switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, which is the longer of the two. This difference means that users who prioritize responsiveness, such as gamers, may find the Botany switch more appealing due to its shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker actuation. Conversely, the Ocean switch, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, as it provides a deeper feel and potentially reduces the sensation of abruptness often associated with shorter switches. In conclusion, while both switches offer distinct travel experiences, the Botany's shorter 3.6 mm distance enhances responsiveness, whereas the Ocean's 4 mm distance promotes a heartier depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Akko Botany linear switch stands out for its crisp and lively clacky noise, which resonates delightfully with typists and gamers alike. This characteristic allows the Botany to provide auditory feedback that can enhance the typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch lacks a notable sound profile, as there isn't significant information available about its acoustic properties. However, it's important to remember that the sound produced by any switch can also be influenced by the board and keycaps you choose, meaning both switches can yield different auditory experiences based on the overall setup.

When evaluating the feel of each switch, the Botany presents a smooth and linear key press that many users find enjoyable for both typing and gaming. Linear switches like the Botany typically lack a tactile bump, allowing for uninterrupted keystrokes. The Outemu Ocean tactile switch, however, is known for its tactile feedback, which provides users with a noticeable bump during actuation. This feedback can be beneficial for users who prefer to feel their keystrokes, especially in typing tasks where tactile confirmation is desired.

In conclusion, the Akko Botany linear switch delivers a distinctive clacky sound that can enhance the typing experience, while the Outemu Ocean tactile switch is characterized by its tactility, providing feedback that some users may prefer. If sound is an essential factor for you, the Botany wins in that department, but both switches can achieve satisfying results based on personal preference and the overall keyboard setup. If you’re considering feel, the decision hinges on whether you enjoy a smoother linear experience or a more tactile one. Ultimately, your choice between these switches should reflect your individual preferences in sound and typing feedback.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, it's essential to consider your typing preferences and needs. If you enjoy a smooth and light keystroke with a pronounced auditory feedback, the Akko Botany, with its 45 grams of bottom-out force and lively clacky sound, would likely be the better choice for you. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a more playful and energetic typing experience, whether you're gaming or typing long documents. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile feel with clear feedback on activation but aren't as concerned about auditory aspects, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch may suit you better. While its specifics regarding bottom-out force and sound characteristics are less defined, tactile switches are generally appreciated for their distinct tactile bump, allowing for a more tactile typing experience without the extra auditory distractions. Ultimately, your choice should align with your preference for tactile feedback versus auditory satisfaction, as well as the overall typing experience you desire.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Botany Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Ocean Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more