Akko Botany vs. Akko Rosewood

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between the lively Akko Botany and the deep, resonant Akko Rosewood, both of which are linear switches designed to enhance typing experiences in unique ways. The Botany switch is celebrated for its crisp and clacky sound profile right out of the box, making it a compelling choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Rosewood switch offers a rich and satisfying thocky sound, enhanced by a carefully applied layer of lubricant that not only smooths the keystroke but also provides a more muted acoustic experience. While the Botany may appeal to those seeking a lively auditory experience, the Rosewood might attract users who prefer a more subdued yet satisfying sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your individual preferences.

By the numbers

Akko Botany Linear

Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Botany and Akko Rosewood, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material signifies a shared foundation when it comes to sound and feel. As players type on either switch, the nylon housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, due to its softer plastic composition. In both cases, the nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, which leads to a comfortable typing experience characterized by a duller and rounder sound. Consequently, users can expect a similar auditory feedback from the switches, enhancing the overall typing experience irrespective of which model they choose.

While the top and bottom housings of the Akko Botany and Akko Rosewood are identical in material, it is essential to recognize that the overall performance may still vary based on their additional design aspects, such as switch mechanics or key placement. Although nylon contributes similarly to the sound profile, the nuances of the different models could provide slight differences in tactile response or key feel. Since both models leverage the same nylon construction, typing enthusiasts who enjoy the characteristics resulting from nylon will find comparable satisfaction with both options, despite any added design variations.

The shared use of nylon in both the Akko Botany and Akko Rosewood enables players to experience a consistent sound signature when typing. Whether pressing down on a key or releasing it, the characteristics of the nylon housing dominate the auditory experience. Since both models emphasize the qualities of nylon, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is noticeably smooth and satisfying. Players can expect a harmonious outcome whether they opt for the Botany or the Rosewood, reinforcing the notion that even with different designs, a common material like nylon bridges the gap in delivering a cohesive typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, we observe subtle differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Botany switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Rosewood's 40 grams, making the Botany feel a bit easier to press, which can be advantageous for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. In terms of bottom out force, the Botany again is lighter at 45 grams, whereas the Rosewood has a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that for users who prefer a lighter touch, the Akko Botany is the better option, while those who favor a more substantial feel may lean towards the Akko Rosewood, which offers a heavier pushing experience. Ultimately, both switches are categorized as light, but the Botany switch is marginally lighter than the Rosewood.

Travel distance

The Akko Botany linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Akko Rosewood linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Botany switch offers a more responsive feel, preferred by gamers for quicker key presses and faster response times, while the Rosewood switch provides a deeper and more hearty depth, which can be more satisfying for those who enjoy a fuller key press experience. Overall, if you're seeking a more immediate actuation, the Botany switch would be the better choice; however, if you favor a more traditional, extended travel, the Rosewood switch would suit you better.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Akko Botany linear switches are characterized by a crisp and lively clacky sound, making them particularly appealing for those who enjoy an audibly satisfying typing experience. This sound profile contributes to a lively atmosphere when typing, as the keys give feedback that can be both engaging and energizing. On the other hand, the Akko Rosewood linear switches produce a deep, satisfying thocky sound, which is enhanced by a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant. This sound gives a more solid and substantial auditory feedback, creating a luxurious and profound typing experience. It's important to note that the overall sound can still vary depending on factors like the keyboard construction and keycap material.

When it comes to feel, the Botany switches have a smooth and responsive action that makes them enjoyable for rapid typing and gaming alike. They typically provide a light touch that facilitates fast keystrokes and can cater to a variety of typing styles. Conversely, the Rosewood switches also offer a smooth experience but may feel slightly more substantial thanks to the lubrication, which can add to the tactile pleasure while typing. This additional lubrication may reduce friction, making every keypress feel luxurious and silky.

Overall, both the Akko Botany and Rosewood linear switches provide distinct sound profiles and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Botany excels in a bright, energetic auditory experience ideal for those who appreciate a clack, the Rosewood focuses on a deeper, more resonant sound that conveys a sense of weight and richness. Depending on personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback, either switch can deliver a satisfying experience on a mechanical keyboard, with the understanding that configuration and additional components may moderately alter the overall experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. If you prefer a lighter actuation with a more pronounced, lively clacky sound that can energize your typing sessions, the Botany switch, with its bottom-out force of 45 grams, is an excellent choice for you. It’s ideal for fast typists and gamers who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback without straining the fingers. On the other hand, if you gravitate towards a deeper, more satisfying thocky sound and don’t mind a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams, the Rosewood switch is likely more your style. The lubricated feel of the Rosewood will provide a smoother experience, making it suitable for long typing sessions where you seek comfort alongside that signature acoustic richness. Therefore, consider your usage scenarios: go for the Botany for speed and liveliness, and opt for the Rosewood for a deeper sound and smoother feel.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Botany Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more

Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more