Akko Botany vs. Outemu Silent Yellow Jade
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, preferences can greatly vary based on typing style and desired sound profile. The Akko Botany switch, a linear switch, is celebrated for its lively, crisp clacky sound, making it an ideal choice for users who enjoy an audibly responsive keyboard experience that enhances their typing rhythm. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade, categorized as a tactile switch, provides a quieter but equally satisfying typing experience with its characteristic "thocky" sound that many users find pleasing. These factory-lubed switches come with a unique translucent yellow housing and deliver a punchy tactile bump, perfect for those who appreciate feedback without excessive noise. Each switch brings its own distinct advantages—whether you prefer the pronounced acoustics and smooth keystrokes of the Botany or the satisfying but muted tactile feedback of the Silent Yellow Jade. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right 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
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Botany and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade, it's essential to note that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This shared characteristic indicates that both switches will deliver a similar auditory experience, characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its softer texture compared to harder plastics, allowing it to absorb sound more effectively. Consequently, users can expect the Botany and Silent Yellow Jade switches to produce a duller and rounder sound when typing, enhancing the overall acoustic experience in a typing or gaming environment.
Despite the similarity in materials, the specific impact of these nylon housings can differ based on the engineering of each switch. The top housing of any switch primarily influences the sound when a key is released, while the bottom housing significantly affects the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback upon keypress. Therefore, even though both the Botany and Silent Yellow Jade switches utilize the same nylon material, the nuanced design and structure of each switch could lead to variations in the overall typing feel. This means users may end up with different experiences when engaging with these switches, even if the material properties are closely aligned.
Ultimately, while the housing materials of the Akko Botany and Outemu Silent Yellow Jade offer a similar foundational quality due to their nylon construction, the experience is shaped by the unique designs of each switch. If both switches are engineered with the same principles, typists may find comparable sound profiles and tactile responses, making them suitable alternatives for those seeking rich feedback and noise-dampening features. However, potential differences in the switch's overall design could create distinct subtleties in how each feels and sounds during use, making personal preference key in the final selection.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Botany switch features an actuation force of 38 grams, making it relatively light, while it has a bottom out force of 45 grams. In contrast, the Silent Yellow Jade requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that typists who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions would gravitate toward the Akko Botany, as its lower forces can help reduce fatigue. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial tactile experience may find the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade more suited to their preferences, with its medium-heavy forces providing a firmer push. Ultimately, users will experience a distinct difference: the Botany is lighter and easier to actuate, while the Silent Yellow Jade offers a more pronounced resistance at both the actuation and bottoming out stages.
Travel distance
The Akko Botany linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch differ in travel distance, with the Botany measuring 3.6 mm and the Silent Yellow Jade at 3.3 mm. This indicates that the Botany switch offers a longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel during typing, providing a more pronounced tactile experience. Conversely, the shorter distance of the Silent Yellow Jade could be more desirable for gamers seeking quicker response times and an overall snappier feel. While the traditional travel distance is 4.0 mm, both switches fall within the modern trend of shorter distances, catering to different preferences. In this case, the Botany's length could be seen as beneficial for a deeper feel, while the Silent Yellow Jade would suit those favoring a smoother and more immediate action.
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 Yellow Jade 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 sound profile of the Akko Botany linear switch is characterized by a crisp, lively, and clacky auditory experience, making it ideal for users who enjoy an engaging typing noise while they work or game. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch produces a quieter, more subdued "thocky" sound, which is particularly appealing for those who prefer a less disruptive typing experience. While the Botany switches will clearly provide more auditory feedback, the Silent Yellow Jade balances tactile feedback with a more muted sound, catering to environments where noise levels are a concern. However, it's important to remember that the overall sound will also be influenced by the specific keyboard setup, including the type of board and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Botany is designed to provide an exhilarating typing experience that many users find satisfying for both casual use and intense gaming. The pronounced characteristics of the Botany likely lend themselves to a smooth linear action, ensuring fluid keystrokes. The Silent Yellow Jade, being a tactile switch, features a punchy bump that gives feedback without the noise typical of clicky switches. This tactile nature allows users to feel the actuation point, which can enhance typing accuracy while maintaining a sense of quiet during use. While both switches cater to different preferences, the overall feel may be felt similarly in that they both aim to enhance the typing experience—one through sound and the other through tactile feedback.
In summary, the Akko Botany linear switch stands out with its crisp, lively sound and smooth linear feel, perfect for those who enjoy a more audible typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch offers a quiet yet satisfying "thocky" sound with a pronounced tactile bump, making it ideal for more subdued environments. Both switches cater to different user preferences, but whether you're looking for a lively auditory experience or a quiet tactile feel, each switch delivers a quality experience that enhances the mechanical keyboard journey.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch ultimately hinges on your specific typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you prefer a light, responsive switch that produces a crisp and lively clacky sound, the Akko Botany is ideal for you. It’s perfect for fast-paced typing or gaming, allowing for quick actuation without requiring much force. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a quieter yet satisfying tactile experience, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade would be your best bet. With a stronger tactile bump and a medium-heavy bottom-out force, it provides a more deliberate typing feel, making it suitable for office environments or shared spaces where noise might be an issue. Ultimately, both switches have their unique benefits: go for the Botany if you crave sound and speed, or choose the Silent Yellow Jade for a quieter, more controlled typing experience. Select based on your personal comfort and the setting in which you'll use your keyboard, and you can't go wrong.
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