Akko Botany vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between linear and tactile options can greatly influence your typing experience. The Akko Botany switch, a linear switch, is celebrated for its crisp and lively clacky sound, providing an engaging auditory feedback that many users find enjoyable. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) is a tactile switch that excels in delivering maximum tactility, offering a sharp, punchy feel with a satisfying clean clack that heightens the typing experience for those who appreciate feedback from their keystrokes. While the Botany switch offers a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke, perfect for gamers and typists who prefer speed and fluidity, the T1 (Sunflower) caters to those who relish a more pronounced tactile response, enhancing their connection with each press. 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
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon Pro
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Botany and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), we find that both switches utilize different materials—nylon for the Botany and POM for the Sunflower. The Botany's nylon top and bottom housings are noted for their classic construction, which results in a typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softer composition, allowing it to absorb sound effectively and produce a rounder auditory profile. In contrast, the POM T1's POM housings, while also producing a similarly muted sound, offer a pleasing and unique acoustic quality that distinguishes them from nylon. Despite these differences in material, both switches are designed to create a deeper, muted sound, albeit through distinct principles of sound absorption and propagation that are inherent to their respective materials.
While the housing materials differ between the two switches, their formulations yield comparable sonic profiles due to the intrinsic properties of nylon and POM. Both materials contribute to a more subdued auditory experience when typing, which is ideal for users seeking a quieter keyboard. The impact of these materials on the sound profile can be observed in the way that the Botany's nylon absorbs sound, leading to a rounder quality, while the POM of the Durock T1 focuses on producing a pleasing and defined sound that still encapsulates the muted characteristic. The end result is that even though the materials are not the same, both can fulfill similar goals in terms of sound profile, contributing to a pleasant typing experience.
Moreover, it's essential to consider that the division of labor between the top and bottom housings of the switches plays a critical role in the overall user experience. For both the Botany and the POM T1, the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out feel and sound when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, despite their material differences, users can expect a level of satisfaction similar to, or possibly even greater than, what each individual material offers. Ultimately, whether one opts for the classic touch of nylon with the Akko Botany or the unique sound palette of POM with the Durock POM T1, both switches promise a satisfying auditory experience shaped by their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch with an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams to the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 67 grams, a distinct difference in tactile experience and force required is evident. The Akko Botany's relatively light actuation and bottom out forces make it easier on the fingers, appealing to users who favor prolonged typing sessions and gaming without fatigue. In contrast, the Sunflower's medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams suggests a more substantial typing experience, likely preferred by those who enjoy a stronger push feel when typing. Overall, the Botany switch is lighter, making it better suited for long-term use, while the Durock POM T1 offers a heftier feel, suitable for users who appreciate firmer feedback. Since the actuation force of the POM T1 is unknown, we cannot directly compare that aspect, but the heavier bottom out force indicates a more robust feel overall.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Botany linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, the Akko Botany has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock POM T1 measures 4 mm. This indicates that the Botany switch offers a shorter travel distance, which may cater to those who prioritize quick response times, making it potentially more suitable for gamers. On the other hand, the POM T1, with its longer travel distance of 4 mm, could appeal to users who prefer a more substantial, hearty typing experience. For those who enjoy a balance between responsiveness and depth, both switches provide distinct advantages depending on personal preference, with the Botany being the shorter option and the POM T1 being the longer one.
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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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 delivers a lively and crisp clacky sound that immediately captures attention, making it an engaging option for those who appreciate auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a resonant sound profile characterized by a higher-pitched, clean, and sharp clack, which can create an immersive typing experience. While the Botany focuses on a more pronounced clack, the POM T1 provides a mixture of resonance and neutrality, making it versatile for various environments, whether at home or in an office setting. The overall sound experience of both switches can still vary significantly depending on your keyboard build, choice of materials, and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Akko Botany switch is notably unmentioned, making it difficult to directly compare it to the tactile characteristics of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower). However, the POM T1 is distinguished by its sharp tactile feedback, with a prominent bump that is felt distinctly with each keystroke. It's frequently described as having a medium tactile intensity, providing an invigorating sensation without overwhelming the user, making it suitable for a variety of typing styles and preferences. The engaging tactile response enhances typing efficiency and comfort, catering to both casual typists and enthusiasts alike.
In summary, the Akko Botany linear switch stands out for its engaging auditory profile, characterized by a crisp clacky sound. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) is recognized for its impressive tactile feedback and clean, resonant sounds that promise an immersive experience. While the Botany’s feel is not specifically described, it's clear the POM T1 excels in providing sharp and invigorating tactile sensations. Ultimately, if you prioritize distinct sound and feel, both switches cater to different preferences, with the Botany serving those who enjoy a lively typing experience and the POM T1 appealing to those seeking pronounced tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, your preferences and intended usage play a pivotal role. If you prefer a light touch with a crisp and lively sound, the Botany switch is ideal for you, especially if you enjoy fast-paced typing or gaming where response time and a pleasant auditory feedback can enhance your experience. Its lighter force and vibrant acoustics make it suitable for longer typing sessions without causing hand fatigue. On the other hand, if you seek a more tactile feel with a satisfying bump that enhances your typing experience, the POM T1 switch stands out. Its heavier actuation force and pronounced tactile feedback provide a robust typing sensation that can help prevent mistyped keys, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy the feel of a traditional mechanical switch during both work and gaming. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you value quick, smooth keystrokes or a tactile response that enhances each keypress – both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Mentioned in this article
