Akko Botany vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Botany and Gateron Smoothie Silver offer two distinct yet appealing options for enthusiasts seeking linear performance. The Akko Botany is celebrated for its crisp, lively clack that delivers a satisfying auditory feedback from the moment you use them, making for a lively typing experience that many users enjoy. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie Silver distinguishes itself with its all-POM construction, designed for rapid actuation through a short travel distance, providing a feather-light touch alongside a thocky sound that many gamers and typists appreciate for its unparalleled smoothness. While the Botany appeals to those who value a bit more acoustic feedback and personality in their keystrokes, the Smoothie Silver attracts users looking for speed and a silky feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Akko Botany Linear

Gateron Smoothie Silver Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

$3.00

$2.60 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Botany and Gateron Smoothie Silver switches, it is clear that both make use of distinct materials that contribute to their sound profiles and overall typing experience. The Botany utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, which is recognized for producing a deeper and fuller sound. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound effectively, leading to a rounder auditory experience. This characteristic is especially significant as both the top and bottom housings work together to create a cohesive sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience with its muted and less sharp acoustics.

In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches feature POM (Polyoxymethylene) for their top and bottom housings. POM is known for delivering unique sound qualities that are also on the deeper side, but with a slightly different texture than nylon. While both materials aim for muted sound profiles, the nature of POM provides a distinct auditory character. The top housing's contribution to the sound upon releasing a key might manifest differently from that of the nylon switch due to the inherent properties of POM. Users may notice slight variations in sound and feel, primarily because POM is not as soft as nylon, potentially resulting in a sharper feel upon keystrokes.

Ultimately, while the Akko Botany and Gateron Smoothie Silver switches differ in their materials—nylon versus POM—they both prioritize creating a fuller and more pleasurable typing experience. Despite their material distinctions, users can expect similarly deep and muted sound profiles from both switches. The integration of the unique qualities of the respective materials may lead to variations in acoustic feedback, but those who appreciate muted sounds will likely find satisfaction in both. The impact of top and bottom housing on sound characteristics will remain, and a well-rounded typing experience can be attained with either choice, depending on personal preferences for feel and sound nuances.

Weight

The Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch present notable differences in their actuation forces. The Botany features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, making it easier to press and suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, as it demands less effort from the fingers. In contrast, the Smoothie Silver has a higher actuation force of 45 grams, providing a firmer feel that some users might prefer for a more substantial typing experience. However, while the bottom out force of the Botany is 45 grams, the specification for the Smoothie Silver's bottom out force is unknown. Consequently, it’s challenging to make direct comparisons beyond their actuation forces. Overall, the Botany switch is lighter and could cater to those seeking a softer touch, whereas the Smoothie Silver is heavier and might appeal to users who favor a more pronounced keystroke.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, there is a notable difference: the Botany has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Smoothie Silver measures at 3.4 mm. This means that the Smoothie Silver offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times and a more immediate feel. In contrast, the Botany, with its longer travel distance, may provide a sense of depth that some users prefer for a more tactile experience. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your gaming or typing preferences—if you prioritize speed, the Smoothie Silver is the better option; if you favor a more deliberate keystroke, the Botany may be more suitable.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Akko Botany linear switch is characterized by a crisp, lively clacky sound that stands out when typing. This makes it an enjoyable experience for users who appreciate auditory feedback while they work or game. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch produces a thocky sound that offers a more satisfying, deep tone. Both switches deliver distinct auditory experiences, but the Botany's clackiness can be more pronounced compared to the smooth, subdued thock of the Smoothie Silver. It's essential to remember that sound can also be influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Akko Botany switches are designed to provide a lively typing experience, which could translate to a more engaging action as you type. This liveliness often means a moderate level of resistance throughout the keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches are known for their unparalleled smoothness and a feather-light touch, making them exceptionally easy to press. This difference in feel can be notable: while the Botany offers a more tactile experience, the Smoothie Silver is optimized for speed and effortless actuation, appealing to users who prioritize quick responsiveness.

Overall, both the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Botany excels in providing an engaging auditory experience with its crisp sound and lively typing feel, while the Smoothie Silver shines with its smoothness and light actuation that can enhance fast-paced typing or gaming. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you value sound precision and liveliness or prefer a quick, quiet, and smooth experience. Each switch can deliver a satisfying typing experience in its own right, but the decision boils down to personal preference in auditory and tactile sensations.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, consider your preferences for actuation, sound, and overall typing experience. If you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of 45 grams, along with a crisp and lively clacking sound, the Botany switch may be the right choice for you. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy tactile feedback and a more pronounced auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smoother keystroke with a feather-light touch and a shorter travel distance, the Gateron Smoothie Silver could better suit your needs. Its thocky sound and unmatched smoothness make it an appealing option for fast-paced gaming or typing where quick actuation is key. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your desired typing style, whether that leans towards a more engaging auditory experience or a rapid, fluid keystroke.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Botany Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Smoothie Silver Linear

$3.00

$2.60 per 10

Learn more