Akko Botany vs. Akko Penguin

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Botany and Akko Penguin offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences and environments. The Botany is a linear switch, celebrated for its crisp, lively clacky sound that adds a vibrant auditory element to typing, making it a thrilling choice for those who enjoy a pronounced acoustic feedback. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin features a tactile design that marks Akko's venture into silent switches, providing a rounded tactile bump that delivers satisfying feedback without the intrusive noise, perfect for office settings where discretion is essential. While the Botany appeals to users who relish an energetic typing experience, the Penguin serves those seeking comfort and focus in a quieter workspace. 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

Akko Penguin Tactile

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

$4.22

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

The Akko Botany and Akko Penguin switches share a significant similarity in their housing materials, as both utilize nylon for both their top and bottom housings. This choice of material is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing due to its softer composition. The nylon effectively absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, contributing to a duller and rounder acoustic experience. This shared material between the two models ensures that users will enjoy a similar auditory feedback when typing, as both switch types will reflect the classic characteristics associated with nylon, leading to a satisfying tactile response.

While both the Botany and Penguin switches feature nylon in their construction, it is essential to recognize how the influence of this material manifests in their performance. The bottom housing of a switch primarily affects the bottom-out sound—when the key is fully pressed down—while the top housing contributes significantly to the sound produced during a key release. Given that both switches employ nylon for their entire housing, they possess a cohesive acoustic profile that accentuates the deep and rounded sound during both the press and release phases. This consistency in material ensures that, irrespective of switching model, users can expect a uniform sound experience.

Despite their identical housing materials, other unique design elements or internal mechanisms could lead to different user experiences between the Botany and Penguin switches. Factors such as spring tension, stem design, or the specific tuning of each switch could create variations in tactile feel or resistance while typing. However, regarding the sound profile produced by the nylon housings, users of both the Akko Botany and Akko Penguin are likely to report similar auditory results, fostering a sense of familiarity for anyone who has worked with either switch model. Thus, the direct comparison highlights how crucial housing materials are in shaping the overall performance, even if other components play a role in differentiating the overall user experience.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Botany switch features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a suitable choice for users who prefer a softer touch and longer typing sessions. In contrast, the Penguin switch has a heavier actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, promoting a more substantial typing experience favored by those who enjoy a firmer push feel. Thus, if you're looking for a lighter switch, the Botany is your best option, while the Penguin caters to users who appreciate a medium resistance. Overall, these differences in force characteristics will significantly influence typing comfort and satisfaction based on individual preferences.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Botany linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, it is clear that the Botany offers a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Penguin features a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This difference of 0.3 mm could impact the overall feel and responsiveness of each switch. Gamers may lean towards the Penguin for its quicker actuation, which can facilitate faster response times, making it more suitable for competitive gaming. Conversely, the Botany’s deeper travel might appeal to users who favor a more substantial keystroke sensation, as it provides a greater depth and tactile feedback with each press. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus a more pronounced keystroke experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the Akko Botany linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, the differences are striking. The Botany switch is known for producing a crisp, lively, clacky sound straight out of the box, making it an excellent choice for users who enjoy the auditory feedback typical of mechanical keyboards. In contrast, the Penguin switch prioritizes a muted auditory experience, producing a softer, quieter sound. This muted quality, combined with its neutral sound profile, makes the Penguin ideal for office environments or shared spaces where noise reduction is a priority, allowing users to type freely without disturbing others.

In terms of feel, the Akko Botany switch does not have specific descriptors outlined; however, it is generally expected that linear switches provide a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke. The Akko Penguin switch, meanwhile, is designed for tactile feedback with its rounded tactile bump that offers mild resistance and considerable comfort. It's polished for a sleek typing experience, reducing friction and promoting smooth key travel, while its mild and feathery characteristics allow for a gentle touch and less finger fatigue during prolonged typing or gaming sessions. This blend provides a user-friendly experience that appeals to a broad range of typists.

Overall, the Akko Botany and Penguin switches cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. The Botany is geared toward those who appreciate an engaging auditory feedback, while the Penguin's focus is on minimizing noise, offering a tactile but quiet experience. For users looking for a lively typing sound, the Botany will be more satisfying, while the Penguin is a perfect choice for quieter environments that still provide tactile feedback. Therefore, choosing between the two ultimately depends on whether the user prioritizes sound or noise reduction and tactile feedback in their typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch will largely depend on your specific needs and environment. If you prefer an engaging and lively typing experience, the Botany's 45-gram actuation force and crisp, clacky sound are ideal for you—especially if you enjoy the auditory feedback that mechanical switches can offer. This makes the Botany great for personal use at home or in settings where noise isn't a major concern. On the other hand, if you find yourself typing in quieter environments such as offices or shared spaces, the 60-gram Penguin switch will suit you better with its muted sound profile and tactile bump. Its polished and mild feel ensures a comfortable typing experience for longer sessions, without the risk of disturbing those around you. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you desire a more exuberant and pronounced keystroke from the Botany or a refined and subtle touch from the Penguin.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Botany Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more

Akko Penguin Tactile

$4.22

$3.10 per 10

Learn more