Akko Botany vs. Outemu Red

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Botany and Outemu Red are two linear options that cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The Akko Botany switches are renowned for their crisp and lively clacky sound, delivering a unique auditory experience that sets them apart from typical linear switches, making them an appealing choice for users who appreciate a more tactile response in their typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Red switches are celebrated for their smoothness and consistency, providing a seamless keystroke experience ideal for gamers and typists who prefer a quieter environment. While both switches are designed for linear feedback, the distinct acoustic profile of the Botany and the subdued nature of the Red present varied benefits depending on your typing style and environment. 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 Red Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Botany and the Outemu Red, one notable difference lies in their top housing materials. The Botany utilizes nylon for its top housing, which is described as providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs sound effectively. In contrast, the Outemu Red features a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The rigidity of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant profile, making it particularly advantageous in scenarios involving RGB lighting due to its translucency. This fundamental difference in material significantly influences the acoustic characteristics of each switch, where the Botany offers a warm, rounded sound and the Red delivers a bright, crisp auditory experience.

On the other hand, both switches share the same nylon material for their bottom housing. This consistency means that in terms of bottom-out sound and feel, both the Botany and the Red will exhibit the same characteristics and overall sensation when the key is pressed down. The use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that both switches provide a duller and rounder sound profile, contributing to a softer acoustic experience upon bottoming out. This similarity emphasizes that while the top housing defines the initial sound during key release, the bottom housing is equally pivotal in determining the impact and feel when typing.

Overall, the combination of different top housing materials creates a unique character for each switch, while the shared nylon bottom housing ensures certain acoustic qualities remain consistent across both models. Therefore, users seeking a softer, deeper sound profile may find more satisfaction with the Botany due to its all-nylon construction. Conversely, those who prioritize a brighter, more resonant sound during typographical actions may prefer the Outemu Red for its polycarbonate top housing's enhanced sonic clarity. Nonetheless, regardless of the preferences for top housing materials, the nylon bottom houses guarantee that both switches offer a reliable and enjoyable typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Botany switch features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Red switch has a higher actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel. As a result, the Akko Botany switch is ideal for users looking for a lighter typing experience, while the Outemu Red switch provides a heavier feel that some may find more satisfying. Overall, the key differences lie in their weight, with the Botany being lighter and more conducive to prolonged usage, whereas the Red offers a firmer feedback for those who prefer it.

Travel distance

The Akko Botany linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Red linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This difference means that the Botany switch allows for quicker actuation, catering to gamers or users who prioritize responsive key presses over a deeper feel. In contrast, the Outemu Red switch, with its traditional 4.0 mm travel distance, offers a more pronounced depth that some users may find more comfortable and satisfying. Therefore, if you prefer faster response times, the Akko Botany's shorter travel distance would be the better choice, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress might opt for the Outemu Red.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Akko Botany linear switch stands out with its crisp, lively clacky sound that many users appreciate immediately upon use. This characteristic makes it a delightful option for those who enjoy auditory feedback from their keys. On the other hand, the Outemu Red linear switch does not have a specific sound profile highlighted, which suggests it may be quieter and more subdued in auditory feedback. It's important to note that the sound produced by any switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used, meaning that both switches can deliver a distinct sound experience based on their setups.

Regarding the feel, the Akko Botany switch offers a smooth linear action that caters to those who prefer a seamless typing experience. Its design likely prioritizes consistent, unbroken keystrokes, which can enhance typing speed and comfort. The Outemu Red switch is also a linear switch, indicating that it shares a similar smooth feel; however, without further details, it’s challenging to compare the specific nuances between the two. Both switches aim to provide a smooth keystroke experience, which is a significant quality for users who favor linear switches.

In conclusion, when considering both the Akko Botany and Outemu Red linear switches, the Botany offers a defined auditory feedback with its clacky sound profile, making it a more attractive option for users who enjoy the acoustic aspect of typing. In contrast, the Outemu Red switch may appeal to those seeking a more muted experience, although specific sound traits remain undetermined. In terms of feel, both switches are designed to provide a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke, making either a suitable choice for linear switch enthusiasts. The final choice may come down to personal preference regarding sound and aesthetic, as well as other factors like the keyboard they are paired with.

Conclusion

In summary, when choosing between the Akko Botany and the Outemu Red linear switches, consider your typing preferences and the type of experience you want from your mechanical keyboard. If you enjoy a lighter touch and a more tactile auditory feedback, the Botany switches with their 45-gram bottom-out force will likely suit you better. Their lively, clacky sound adds a unique charm and can make typing feel more engaging and fun. This makes them an excellent choice for gamers or typists who appreciate an expressive keyboard. On the other hand, if you prefer a sturdier key press and are looking for a more traditional linear feel without the distinct sound profile, the Outemu Red switches, with their medium 62-gram bottom-out force, are a reliable option. They deliver a smooth keystroke that's quieter, making them suitable for more office-friendly environments where noise might be a concern. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your preferred typing experience—whether you lean towards light and sound or a more robust and muted feel.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Botany Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Red Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more