Akko Botany vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Botany and the SP-Star Polaris Purple offer distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Botany is a linear switch celebrated for its lively clack and crisp sound profile, making every keystroke feel invigorating right from the outset. This switch is ideal for gamers and typists who appreciate smooth key presses without tactile interruptions. In contrast, the Polaris Purple is a tactile switch that features a pronounced bump, delivering an exhilarating typing experience characterized by its snappy sound profile. This switch appeals to those who enjoy a more traditional feel with tactile feedback, often favored by writers and programmers who appreciate the reassurance of each keystroke. Both switches have their unique strengths and cater to different needs, but if you’re still unsure which one suits you best, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities to help you make the right choice for your typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The contrasting housing materials of the Akko Botany and SP-Star Polaris Purple switches lead to distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences when typing. The Botany switch utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a material known for its softer texture that absorbs sound. This creates a deeper and fuller auditory experience, as the nylon dampens the sound produced during typing. In contrast, the Polaris Purple features polycarbonate for its housings. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that yields a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, enhancing the clarity and resonance of keystrokes. Therefore, if one seeks a more muted and plush typing experience, the Botany would be preferable, while the Polaris Purple would be better suited for those who desire a snappier, more pronounced sound.
Aesthetically, the differences in the materials also affect the overall presentation of the switches. The translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for vibrant RGB lighting to shine through, making the Polaris Purple switches an excellent choice for visually striking keyboard setups. In contrast, the Botany's nylon housing may not support the same level of light diffusion as polycarbonate, catering instead to users who prioritize sound quality over visual effects. While both materials serve functional purposes, their visual and auditory properties diverge significantly, appealing to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
In terms of performance, the distinct sound profiles of the two switches are a result of how the materials interact during typing. While the Botany's nylon housing produces a warm and muffled sound when pressing keys, the Polaris Purple’s polycarbonate generates a clear and impactful acoustic signature. However, it’s noteworthy that if the top and bottom housings of a switch utilize different materials, each housing will contribute uniquely to the overall typing experience. If one were to combine the softer nylon from the Botany with the stiffer polycarbonate from the Polaris Purple, it could potentially offer a balanced result, incorporating both the clarity of polycarbonate and the warmth of nylon into a single switch typographic experience.
Weight
The Akko Botany linear switch features a relatively light actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a lighter switch that allows for extended typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has an unknown actuation force, but its bottom out force is significantly heavier at 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This disparity means that while the Botany switch is easier to press, the Polaris Purple provides a firmer resistance that some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Consequently, if you're looking for a switch that minimizes finger fatigue for long periods of use, the Akko Botany would be the better option, whereas the Polaris Purple may appeal to those who enjoy a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Botany linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, the Botany switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Polaris Purple measures 4 mm. This means that the Botany switch offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers or users seeking faster response times due to its more responsive feel. Conversely, the Polaris Purple's longer travel distance of 4 mm may be preferable for those who enjoy a more substantial keypress that provides a more traditional typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference regarding the desired feel and responsiveness of the keys.
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 SP-Star Polaris Purple has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Purple for $5.00.
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
When it comes to sound, the Akko Botany linear switch has a distinct and lively auditory profile, characterized by its crisp and clacky sound straight out of the box. This energizing feedback can make typing feel more dynamic and engaging. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a more neutral sound. While it is described as snappy, the overall sound profile is moderate, making it suitable for a wide range of environments, whether at home or at work. The contrast between the two is quite noticeable—the Botany's lively clack can stand out, while the Polaris Purple offers a refined auditory experience that blends more seamlessly into quiet spaces.
In terms of feel, the Botany switches are known for providing a satisfying experience, although specific descriptions about their tactile qualities are not provided. In contrast, the Polaris Purple switches offer a unique tactile sensation with a pronounced bump, delivering an exhilarating typing experience. Their mild characteristics indicate a gentler approach that feels good for both beginners and experienced typists alike. Moreover, the Polaris Purple switches are described as polished, implying a smooth and refined typing experience due to either the materials used or factory lube, resulting in less friction during key presses. This polished feel can further enhance user satisfaction, making typing a more seamless activity.
Overall, while the Akko Botany linear switch excels in creating a lively sound environment, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch balances a neutral sound with a pronounced tactile experience. If you're looking for a clicky and vibrant typing experience, the Botany will undoubtedly deliver that energetic feel. Conversely, if you desire a more subdued sound combined with a tactile sensation, the Polaris Purple is a great choice. Whichever you choose, both switches offer distinct auditory and tactile benefits, ultimately aligning with your personal typing preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko Botany linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter actuation and a lively, clacky sound that resonates well, the Botany switch might be your go-to option. It's perfect for those who enjoy a more playful and energetic typing experience, particularly in casual settings or gaming where rapid key presses are beneficial. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more substantial feel and a pronounced tactile bump that enhances your typing feedback, the Polaris Purple is likely the better fit. With its medium-heavy actuation force, it offers a balanced typing experience that is both snappy and polished, making it an excellent choice for longer typing sessions, such as work or programming. Ultimately, whether you lean towards the Botany for its lightness and lively sound or the Polaris Purple for its tactile feedback and polished feel, both switches can elevate your mechanical keyboard experience; it just comes down to what feels best for you.
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