Akko Botany vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Botany and the Outemu Silent Grey each offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Akko Botany, a linear switch, is celebrated for its lively, clacky sound and smooth keystroke that delivers an energizing typing experience, perfect for gamers and typists who enjoy auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey, categorized as a tactile switch, provides a pronounced bump and a notably quieter performance, making it ideal for professionals or anyone in a shared workspace who desires a satisfying feel without the noise. While both switches have their merits, the choice ultimately depends on whether you prioritize sound or a tactile sensation in your typing experience. 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
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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 Silent Grey, a distinct contrast emerges between their top housings. The Akko Botany features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer characteristics. This material absorbs sound more effectively than harder alternatives, leading to a muted and rounded auditory experience. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Grey employs polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The rigidity of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer, more resonant sound profile, making it ideal for users who appreciate a more defined auditory feedback when typing. Therefore, while both switches serve the purpose of enhancing typing experience, they cater to different aesthetic and auditory preferences.
Interestingly, the bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, aligning their properties and sound profiles in this aspect. The nylon bottom housing is consistent across both models, providing a deeper and fuller sound experience due to its sound-absorbing quality. This similarity means that regardless of the different top housing materials, users will experience a cohesive bottom-out sound when actuating either switch. Essentially, while the top housing diverges in terms of material and sound profile, the uniformity of the nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches can still deliver a satisfying tactile feel and sound upon keypress.
In summary, the differentiation in top housing materials between the Akko Botany and Outemu Silent Grey results in contrasting sound profiles that cater to distinct user preferences. The nylon top of the Botany offers a muted and rounded auditory experience, while the polycarbonate top of the Silent Grey delivers clarity and crispness. However, the commonality in their nylon bottom housings mitigates the disparity, as both switches provide a deep and full sound experience at the point of actuation. This balance of contrasting top and uniform bottom materials ultimately showcases how the combined characteristics can influence the overall performance and user experience of mechanical key switches.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force that cater to varied preferences among typists and gamers. The Akko Botany features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who favor a softer touch and prolonged typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Grey demands a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with each keystroke. Consequently, if you prefer a lighter switch for comfort during extended use, the Akko Botany would be the better choice; however, for those who appreciate a firmer push, the Outemu Silent Grey may be more satisfying. In summary, while both switches serve different user preferences regarding keystroke feel, the Botany is lighter and more suited for long-term comfort, while the Silent Grey offers a heavier resistance that some may find more rewarding.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Botany linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, we find a notable difference: the Botany features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Silent Grey measures 4 mm. This means that the Botany switch has a shorter travel distance, making it potentially more responsive for gamers who favor quick key presses. Conversely, the longer 4 mm travel distance of the Silent Grey may be preferred by users who enjoy a more pronounced feel when pressing keys, as it provides a greater depth that can enhance typing satisfaction. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on whether you value a swifter response time or a more tactile typing experience.
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 Silent Grey 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
The Akko Botany linear switch is characterized by a crisp, lively clacky sound that resonates prominently, making it an engaging choice for users who appreciate auditory feedback while typing. This switch can create a vibrant atmosphere, especially in a mechanical keyboard setup designed for sound amplification. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch prioritizes a quieter experience, producing minimal sound while maintaining a pronounced tactile bump. This makes the Silent Grey suitable for those who prefer a considerate typing environment without sacrificing the satisfaction of feeling the activation point of each keystroke.
When it comes to feel, the Botany switch delivers a smooth and linear typing experience, allowing users to glide effortlessly across the keys without the interruption of tactile feedback. This can appeal to typists who enjoy a fluid motion without any bumps or barriers. Conversely, the Silent Grey offers a pronounced tactile bump that enhances the typing experience, providing clear tactile feedback upon actuation. This tactile feedback is particularly valued by those who enjoy a more interactive feel while typing, making each keystroke satisfying and intentional.
Overall, both the Akko Botany and Outemu Silent Grey switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. If you enjoy an auditory experience and a smooth linear action, the Botany is a fantastic option. On the other hand, if you seek a quieter yet engaging tactile experience, the Silent Grey has you covered with its pronounced bump and subdued sound profile. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your specific typing preferences and environment, as they each offer unique qualities tailored to different user experiences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch should be guided by your specific typing preferences and environment. If you value a light touch and enjoy a lively typing experience, the Botany switch, with its crisp and clacky sound profile, may be an excellent fit, offering a playful and engaging feel that enhances your overall typing rhythm. This switch is ideal for casual typing, gaming, or for those who appreciate an audible keystroke in a more expressive manner. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued but tactile experience, the Silent Grey switch is designed to provide a satisfying bump with each key press while maintaining a quieter performance. This makes it an excellent choice for office settings or shared spaces where noise may be a concern, yet you still want the delight of tactile feedback. In essence, go for the Botany if you want a breezy and vibrant typing experience, while the Silent Grey is perfect for those who prioritize silence and tactility. Your choice will ultimately reflect your personal typing style and environment.
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