Akko Botany vs. Dareu Sky POM

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options stand out: the Akko Botany and the Dareu Sky POM. The Akko Botany switches are celebrated for their lively and crisp clacky sound, providing an auditory experience that many enthusiasts cherish. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switches, made entirely from premium POM material, are known for their smoothness and gentle actuation force, delivering a buttery, low-pitched sound that appeals to users seeking a soft and creamy typing experience without breaking the bank. While both switches offer distinct auditory pleasures and satisfying typing feels characteristic of linear switches, their differences in material and sound profile can significantly influence user preference. 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

Dareu Sky POM Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

$7.78

$4.98 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Botany and the Dareu Sky POM, one notable difference lies in their top housing materials. The Akko Botany utilizes nylon for its top housing, a material known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition. This quality allows nylon to absorb sound more efficiently than harder plastics, resulting in a more subdued auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM employs POM for its top housing, which also provides a deeper and relatively muted sound. While both materials contribute to a similar auditory profile, the distinct nature of POM might create subtle variations in the typing experience, marking a contrast between these switches.

On the other hand, the bottom housings of both the Akko Botany and the Dareu Sky POM are composed of nylon. Unlike their top housings, the nylon used in the botany's bottom housing is consistent with the nylon material in the Dareu Sky POM as well. This similarity ensures that both switches deliver a comparable tactile feeling and auditory feedback during key presses. They are designed to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the sound-absorbing characteristics of nylon, enriching the typing experience. Consequently, this alignment in bottom housing material suggests that both switches will maintain a high level of performance when it comes to sound dampening and overall sound quality.

Ultimately, the combination of materials in both the Akko Botany and the Dareu Sky POM reflects a blend of unique and shared qualities that influence the user experience. Although the top housings differ in material—nylon for the Botany and POM for the Sky POM—both bottom housings utilize nylon, creating a common ground for sound absorption and tactile feedback. The layered effects of the materials mean that users can expect a broadly similar experience, with each switch providing its unique character, especially in terms of sound profile when keys are released. Thus, typing on either switch is likely to yield satisfying acoustics, although the nuances brought by the different top housing materials may appeal to different preferences among users.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it's clear that the Botany switch is the lighter option, featuring an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. In contrast, the Sky POM switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 40 grams, although its bottom out force is unknown. This means that typists or gamers who prefer a lighter touch for extended periods might lean towards the Botany for comfort, while those seeking a more substantial feel might favor the Sky POM's slightly higher actuation force, though the specific bottom out experience for the Sky POM requires further clarity to make a complete comparison. Overall, the choice between these switches varies based on personal preference for force sensitivity and typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Botany linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, we find that the Botany features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, whereas the Sky POM has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This distinction makes the Akko Botany the shorter option, appealing to those who prioritize rapid response times, such as gamers who benefit from quicker key actuation. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM, with its greater travel distance, may be more suitable for individuals who prefer a more substantial tactile experience when pressing down on a key, offering a deeper feel that some users find more comfortable. Ultimately, while both switches cater to different preferences in terms of travel distance, the Botany is better for those seeking speed, whereas the Sky POM would be favored by those who appreciate a richer depth in their keystrokes.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Akko Botany linear switch stands out for producing a crisp, lively clacky sound straight out of the box, making it an engaging choice for typists who enjoy auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch offers a low-pitched clack that delivers a more mellifluous and bass-heavy tone, catering to those who prefer a softer and less aggressive auditory experience. Both switches exhibit unique sound profiles that can be further influenced by the specific keyboard build, board materials, and keycap choice; however, the Botany's higher-pitched clack might draw a different audience compared to the Sky POM's mellower acoustics.

When it comes to feel, the Akko Botany switch does not have an ascribed tactile experience described in the information provided, leaving its exact sensation somewhat ambiguous. In contrast, the Sky POM is characterized by its buttery, creamy, and silky feel. Users can expect a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with minimal resistance, which contributes to an overall pleasant typing experience. The combination of these qualities creates an effortless glide when typing, providing a tactile joy that may not be paralleled in the Botany, making the Sky POM an attractive choice for those who prioritize touch sensitivity in their typing experience.

In summary, while the Akko Botany linear switch is recognized for its lively clacky sound, spearheading an engaging auditory interaction, the Dareu Sky POM offers a deeper, lower-pitched tone along with its superbly smooth feel. The latter presents a distinct typing experience characterized by silky smoothness that enhances comfort during extended use. Choosing between them will largely come down to personal preference regarding sound profiles and the tactile sensations desired. For a newcomer, trying both switches in a compatible keyboard setup could provide insight into which qualities resonate most effectively with their typing style and preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences in typing feel and sound. If you are looking for a lively and clacky auditory experience paired with a lighter bottom out force, the Akko Botany is the right choice for you. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a more responsive keypress and enjoy a pronounced sound profile straight out of the box. On the other hand, if you prioritize an exceptionally smooth and buttery typing experience with a low-pitched, mellow tone, the Dareu Sky POM will serve you well. Known for its silky feel and creamy texture, this switch offers an effortless keystroke that can enhance your typing comfort, making it a great option for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style and sound preferences: the Botany for crisp and lively feedback or the Sky POM for smooth and gentle luxury.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Botany Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more

Dareu Sky POM Linear

$7.78

$4.98 per 10

Learn more