Akko Botany vs. HC Studio Roselle

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Botany and the HC Studio Roselle both stand out as impressive linear options, each with its unique characteristics appealing to different types of users. The Botany switch is celebrated for its crisp and lively clacky sound, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more auditory typing experience that adds personality to their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Roselle switch takes a different approach with its incredibly smooth and ethereally wispy feel, offering users a seamless typing experience accompanied by a subtle, low-pitched sound signature. While the Botany provides vibrant feedback ideal for users who appreciate sound, the Roselle caters to those who prioritize smoothness and a quieter environment. 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

HC Studio Roselle Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

$5.90

$4.70 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Botany and the HC Studio Roselle, we see notable differences that influence their acoustic properties and typing experiences. The Akko Botany utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing. Nylon is recognized for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, primarily due to its softer composition, which effectively absorbs sound. This results in a distinctively muted and rounded auditory experience when typing, as the softness of the material dampens sharper sound frequencies. In contrast, the HC Studio Roselle employs POM for both the top and bottom housing. While POM is also designed to offer a unique auditory profile, it presents a sound that is slightly more muted, yet still deep, showcasing its own acoustic characteristics.

Despite the differences in materials, both the nylon used in the Botany and the POM in the Roselle succeed in providing satisfying auditory feedback, albeit in different ways. The nylon in the Botany tends to absorb more sound due to its softer nature, creating a more rounded sound frequency that contributes to a fuller typing experience. Meanwhile, POM's unique acoustic properties in the Roselle yield a subdued but satisfying sound that remains on the deeper side. This indicates that both sets of switches, while sourced from different materials, can elicit similarly pleasant experiences through their respective sound profiles.

Another significant aspect to consider is how the individual contribution of each housing material interacts within the entire switch design. For the Botany, the nylon contributes cohesively to both the bottom-out sound and the release sound due to its use in both housings. In the Roselle, the POM material similarly influences the overall sound experience. Since both models use materials that prioritize deeper sound profiles, one can reasonably expect that typing on either switch will produce satisfying auditory feedback, although the nuances in sound may vary slightly due to the material differences. Thus, while the two switches can yield comparable typing excitements, their distinct material compositions create unique characterizations in sound and feel during use.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, the differences in their actuation and bottom out forces highlight their distinct typing experiences. The Botany switch features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience over prolonged periods, such as during long workdays or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Roselle switch has a medium-light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, providing a slightly heavier push feel that some typists might favor for a more substantial tactile experience. Consequently, the Botany switch is lighter overall, appealing to users who favor a softer touch, while the Roselle switch offers a moderately stronger actuation and bottom out experience. This distinction allows users to select a switch that aligns better with their typing preferences and comfort.

Travel distance

Both the Akko Botany linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that users can expect a similar feel when pressing down on the keys for both switches, resulting in a comparable tactile experience. Since both switches have the same travel distance, they will provide a similar level of key actuation and overall responsiveness. Therefore, whether one opts for the Akko Botany or the HC Studio Roselle, the keypress experience will be virtually indistinguishable in terms of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound quality of the Akko Botany linear switch is characterized by a crisp and lively clack, which provides an engaging auditory experience right from the start. In contrast, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch presents a more subdued auditory signature, featuring a soft, low-pitched sound that leans towards a bassy profile. This creates a rich and mellow typing atmosphere. Overall, while the Botany delivers a more pronounced and sharp auditory response, the Roselle's subtle low-frequency tone offers a serene alternative, catering to users who may prefer a quieter typing environment.

In terms of feel, the Botany's characteristics remain undisclosed, making it difficult to provide a direct comparison. However, the Roselle is noted for its frictionless typing experience, allowing for smooth and effortless keystrokes that glide with ease. Its mild nature ensures that the overall typing action feels gentle and approachable, making it suitable for a wide range of users, from beginners to seasoned typists. Since we lack specific details about the feel of the Botany, we can't definitively compare; however, if it also offers smoothness, users may find both switches relaxing to type on.

In conclusion, the Akko Botany and HC Studio Roselle linear switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Botany excels with its lively and crisp acoustic output, while the Roselle's signature low-pitched and bassy tones provide a softer experience. On the tactile side, the Roselle stands out with its frictionless and mild typing sensation, but the qualities of the Botany in this realm remain a mystery. Depending on individual preferences, one might find satisfaction in either switch, especially given that both may offer a smooth typing experience if the Botany shares similar performance traits to the Roselle.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Akko Botany linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel as well as your typing habits. If you prefer a lighter touch with a relatively lower actuation force and enjoy a crisp, lively clack sound, the Botany switch is likely your best bet. This switch is particularly well-suited for those who enjoy a more responsive typing experience, making it a fantastic option for quick typists or gamers who thrive on speed. On the other hand, if you seek a smoother and more refined tactile sensation with a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Roselle switch would be a better choice. Its frictionless feel and subtle, low-pitched sound signature offer a soothing typing experience that is ideal for extended use, whether typing for work or leisurely writing. Ultimately, consider your priorities: choose the Botany for an energetic typing experience and delightful sound, or opt for the Roselle for a smooth, low-key interaction with your keyboard that reduces fatigue over time.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Botany Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more

HC Studio Roselle Linear

$5.90

$4.70 per 10

Learn more