Akko Botany vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options from Akko stand out: the Botany and the V3 Silver Pro, both of which are linear switches but cater to different preferences. The Botany switches are celebrated for their crisp and lively clacky sound, creating an engaging typing experience that some users find particularly satisfying. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro switches are expertly designed for gamers, offering a smooth keystroke with a pleasing bassy sound that enhances gameplay. Their light actuation force and reduced travel distance further provide a competitive edge, allowing gamers to react more swiftly during intense sessions. Both switches offer unique benefits—whether you prioritize the auditory satisfaction of the Botany or the responsive performance of the V3 Silver Pro, the choice ultimately depends on your individual needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Nylon Pro
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Botany and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, notable differences can be seen in the top housings, which each contribute distinct sound profiles. The Botany features a nylon top housing that is known for producing a deeper, fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. This material absorbs sound effectively, leading to a quieter and more rounded acoustical experience. Conversely, the V3 Silver Pro employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is characterized by its rigidity and translucence. This stiffer material results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, making typists experience a crisper auditory feedback with each keystroke. Consequently, users seeking a rich, muted sound may prefer the Botany, while those desiring a clearer and more vibrant audio experience might gravitate towards the V3 Silver Pro.
On the other hand, both keyboard models utilize nylon for the bottom housing, meaning they share similarities in terms of the tactile experience and sound profile it delivers. Both switch designs will echo that deep and full-bodied sound due to the nylon's ability to absorb excess noise. This creates a uniformity in the bottom-out sound and feel between the two models, despite the contrasting acoustics from the top housings. Overall, the nylon bottom housing in both models ensures that when users press down on the switches, they will feel a similar tactile sensation that resonates with that rich sonic signature, regardless of the varying top materials.
While the differences in top housing material between the Botany and the V3 Silver Pro create distinctive sound profiles and aesthetic considerations, the shared nylon bottom housing ties their performances together in a noteworthy way. The bottom housing's influence on bottom-out sound ensures that, despite the audible differences when releasing the keys, both keyboards will still provide a satisfying and consistent tactile and auditory experience when pressed fully down. Hence, users can expect a blend of characteristics influenced by the individual top and bottom housings, making each keyboard uniquely appealing based on personal preference for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, both features an similar bottom out force of 45 grams, indicating that they provide a consistent resistance at the end of a keystroke. However, their actuation forces differ slightly; the Botany has an actuation force of 38 grams, making it the lighter option, while the V3 Silver Pro requires a slightly higher actuation force of 40 grams. This means that the Botany switch is easier to press down initially, which may be more comfortable for extensive typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the V3 Silver Pro provides a slightly more substantial push feel due to its heavier actuation force, catering to users who prefer more resistance while typing. Overall, while both switches have the same bottom out force, the Botany's lighter actuation force may appeal to those seeking comfort for prolonged use, whereas the V3 Silver Pro might attract users who enjoy a bit more feedback in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Akko Botany linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that if responsiveness is your primary concern, you might lean towards the V3 Silver Pro for its quicker actuation, which can enhance gaming performance. In contrast, the Botany switch offers a deeper feel with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more tactile experience when typing or gaming. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches comes down to personal preference—opt for the Akko V3 Silver Pro for a snappier response or the Botany for a more substantial keystroke.
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 Akko V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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
In terms of sound, the Akko Botany linear switch stands out with its crisp and lively clacky sound profile, producing an engaging auditory feedback that many users find enjoyable, especially for typing. This lively character makes the keyboard feel more dynamic, creating a pleasant atmosphere for both gaming and typing. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro features a high-pitched sound that is sharp and crisp, which further enhances its suitability for a gamer's environment. This high-pitched quality may also resonate with those who prefer a more aural tactile experience as a mechanism for enjoying their keystrokes. Ultimately, while both switches offer their unique sound characteristics, the choice between them will come down to personal preference—whether one favors a livelier clack or a sharper response.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Silver Pro switches are known for being easy to press, providing a gentle resistance that allows for comfortable and effortless key activation. This light actuation force significantly reduces finger fatigue during long typing or gaming sessions, promoting an enjoyable and responsive experience. Additionally, the V3 Silver Pro is described as having a creamy texture, delivering a smooth and buttery tactile sensation with each keystroke. The combination of being feathery and polished enhances the experience, making every key press feel smooth and refined. Conversely, the feel of the Botany switches is not explicitly detailed, but it can generally be assumed that they will provide a satisfying experience as well, albeit possibly differing in texture and resistance compared to the notably smooth and light V3 Silver Pro.
In summary, both the Akko Botany and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switches cater to distinct preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Botany offers a vibrant clacky sound that appeals to those who enjoy auditory feedback, while the V3 Silver Pro emphasizes a high-pitched sound complemented by an incredibly light and smooth typing experience, making it an excellent choice for gamers. Ultimately, each switch has its strengths, and users can expect a rewarding experience from either option, tailored to their specific audio and tactile preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch heavily depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you enjoy a light typing experience combined with a lively sound profile, the Botany switches will likely be your best option. Their crisp and clacky sound adds a fun auditory element to typing and gaming, making them suitable for casual use or for those who appreciate a more tactile acoustic response. Additionally, the smooth and polished feel of the Botany switches allows for a comfortable typing experience over extended periods. On the other hand, if you are a competitive gamer or someone who values speed and precision, the V3 Silver Pro switch should be your choice. With its light actuation force and shortened travel distance, this switch allows for quick and effortless keystrokes, crucial in heated gaming moments where every millisecond counts. The bassy sound profile, while different from the Botany's higher-pitched acoustics, provides its own satisfying auditory feedback. In essence, go for the Botany switches for a more enjoyable and acoustic-driven typing experience, while the V3 Silver Pro is ideal for gamers seeking performance and responsiveness.
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