Akko Botany vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Botany and HMX Poro linear switches each offer distinct characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Botany switches are celebrated for their crisp, lively clacky sound that adds a vibrant auditory experience to every keystroke, making them ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the HMX Poro switches focus on delivering an exceptionally smooth typing experience, featuring ultra-light actuation forces and meticulous lubrication that provide a seamless glide with a satisfyingly poppy sound profile. This makes the Poro an excellent choice for users seeking a quieter, yet still engaging keystroke. Understanding these features helps you choose the right switch for your typing style – whether you prefer the expressive sound of the Botany or the silky touch of the Poro. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon Pro
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko Botany and HMX Poro switches both utilize nylon as the primary material for their top and bottom housings, which leads to a remarkably similar auditory experience when typing. Nylon is recognized for its softer plastic properties, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This shared characteristic means that users of both switches can expect a distinct lack of harshness in their key presses, lending a smooth and dampened acoustic quality to the overall typing experience. The combination of nylon's ability to absorb sound effectively decreases sharp overtones, creating a rich and harmonious feedback that typists may find enjoyable and conducive to prolonged use.
While both the Akko Botany and HMX Poro switches are composed entirely of nylon, the nuances of sound they produce when in use may still vary slightly depending on the specific design and construction of the switches. As previously mentioned, the impact of the bottom housing predominantly defines the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback, while the top housing significantly affects the sound produced during key release. As both switches feature nylon in both their housings, the resultant sound profile when typing will generally be consistent and well-rounded. However, one might find minor differences in acoustics based on other factors like stem design, switch actuation force, or spring used within the switches, which can enhance or slightly alter each switch's unique character.
Ultimately, users can expect a comparable typing experience from the Akko Botany and HMX Poro switches due to their shared nylon construction. This similarity ensures that the qualities associated with the nylon construction—such as durability, sound absorption, and smooth key press feedback—will be prominent in both models. Thus, typing will feel and sound similarly smooth across both switches, leading to a satisfying experience regardless of the model chosen. Whether one prefers the Akko Botany or the HMX Poro, the inherent qualities of nylon in their housings promise a delightful immersion in typing aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, we see notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Botany switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions as it requires less effort to press down. In contrast, the HMX Poro switch features a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which may provide a more substantial feel during typing for those who prefer a stronger push. Both switches fall under the light category, but users will experience a noticeable difference in the amount of force needed to actuate the switch, with the Botany being the lighter option overall. While the Poro's weights may appeal to those who want a firmer response, users who favor a lighter feel might prefer the Akko Botany for longer usage without fatigue.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Botany linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, there is a slight difference that could influence user preference. The Botany switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Poro switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Botany the shorter option, catering to those who may prefer faster response times typical of shorter travel distances, which are often favored by gamers. On the other hand, the Poro's 3.7 mm travel distance offers a little extra depth, appealing to users who appreciate a more pronounced feel when pressing the key. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding responsiveness versus tactile feedback.
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 HMX Poro has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poro for $2.99.
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 is celebrated for its crisp and lively clacky output, providing a pronounced auditory feedback that many enthusiasts enjoy. This distinctive sound is often associated with tactile, linear switches that deliver an engaging typing experience right from the start. In comparison, the HMX Poro linear switch showcases a silky smooth character with a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile, attributed to its ultra-light actuation force. Consequently, while both switches deliver an enjoyable auditory experience, the Botany leans towards a more pronounced clack, whereas the Poro offers a subtler yet still engaging sound, creating a pleasant atmosphere for typing and gaming alike.
In terms of feel, the Botany switch boasts a lively keystroke that, combined with its auditory profile, lends itself to a more dynamic typing experience, making each keypress feel engaging and responsive. The HMX Poro, on the other hand, emphasizes a remarkably smooth keystroke experience, enhanced by meticulous lubrication, leading to an effortless glide with every press. This characteristic makes the Poro a fantastic choice for those who prioritize smoothness and a fluid typing experience. While both switches provide distinctive feels, the Botany emphasizes a more tactile interaction, while the Poro focuses on the silky, smooth sensation as fingers glide across the keys.
Overall, both the Akko Botany and HMX Poro linear switches present enjoyable experiences tailored to different preferences. If you favor a more pronounced sound and active feedback, the Botany is your switch. Conversely, if you prefer silky smooth keystrokes with a poppy sound, the Poro will suit you well. Ultimately, both switches provide unique qualities, allowing enthusiasts to choose based on their personal typing or gaming style to achieve a satisfying result.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Akko Botany linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, your choice will largely depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, as well as the type of use you anticipate. If you enjoy a lighter bottom-out force with a crisp, lively, and clacky sound that stands out while typing or gaming, the Botany switch will likely be your best option. Its unique sound profile can enhance your overall typing experience, especially if you appreciate auditory feedback and a bit of personality in your keyboard. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force and a smoother, more effortless typing experience with an emphasis on a silky glide, the HMX Poro would be more suited to your needs. The Poro's meticulously lubricated design ensures comfortably fluid keystrokes, making it ideal for long typing sessions or focused gaming, where you want minimal resistance and maximum tactical responsiveness. Ultimately, your choice will reflect what you value most in your mechanical keyboard experience: the lively sound of the Botany or the smooth and effortless feel of the Poro.
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