Akko Botany vs. TTC Speed Silver

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly impact both typing experience and user satisfaction. On one hand, the Akko Botany switches are celebrated for their crisp and lively clacky sound, delivering an engaging auditory feedback that many enthusiasts find appealing. These linear switches are ideal for those who enjoy a bit of character in their typing experience, making them a favorite among those seeking a unique aesthetic. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switches cater to users who prioritize speed and precision, offering a light-medium resistance and a reduced travel distance that enables quick and effortless actuation. With a pristine sound profile, they are well-suited for gamers and typists alike who want to maintain a fast-paced workflow. Both switches have their merits, depending on whether you're looking for a lively typing sound or a lightning-fast response. 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

TTC Speed Silver Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

$6.00

$4.58 per 10

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Housing materials

The Akko Botany and TTC Speed Silver switches exhibit contrasting characteristics in their top housing materials that significantly influence their sound profiles. The Botany features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to absorb sound. This results in a deeper and fuller auditory experience that many users find appealing, particularly for those who appreciate a more subdued, rounded sound. In contrast, the Speed Silver uses polycarbonate as its top housing material, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound when the key is released, making it particularly attractive for gamers or typists who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback during their typing experience.

In terms of bottom housing materials, both switches share a commonality: they both utilize nylon, which yields similar attributes in terms of sound quality. The nylon bottom housing in both the Botany and Speed Silver switches results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when the keys bottom out. This synergy allows for a consistent sound experience when the key is fully pressed down, irrespective of the variations in the top housing materials. The impact of the nylon bottom housing tends to soften the overall auditory feedback, creating a balanced typing feel that is integral to both switch designs.

When considering the overall acoustic performance of the Akko Botany and TTC Speed Silver switches, the differences in their top housing materials create distinct experiences, while the shared bottom housing helps to unify the tactile feedback. The characteristics of the nylon bottom housing lend a sense of continuity, ensuring that even with the difference in top materials—nylon versus polycarbonate—the overall sound experience when bottoming out remains deep and resonant. This interplay means that while users will notice a difference in the sound during key release depending on the top housing, the fundamental experience of typing is anchored by the nylon in the bottom, suggesting that a user could achieve a similar sound profile if they prioritize the bottom housing qualities over the top.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, we find distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Botany switch features an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option overall. In contrast, the Speed Silver switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This means that while the Botany switch requires less force to actuate, offering a more effortless typing experience, the Speed Silver provides a slightly firmer feel, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, for those who value a lighter switch that allows for longer typing sessions, the Botany would be the better choice, while the Speed Silver might appeal to those who enjoy a bit of resistance in their key presses.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Botany linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, we see that the Botany measures at 3.6 mm, while the Speed Silver is slightly shorter at 3.4 mm. This makes the Akko Botany the longer of the two options, providing a deeper press that may appeal to users who prefer a more substantive key feel. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver, with its shorter travel distance, could be more suitable for gamers or those seeking rapid response times. While both switches fall within the modern trend of shorter travel distances, the difference between them (0.2 mm) could influence the tactile experience, where the Botany may feel more traditional and substantial, while the Speed Silver may present a quicker and more abrupt action. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference for key depth and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Akko Botany linear switch boasts a crisp and lively clacky sound that provides an engaging auditory feedback, making it quite distinct and lively compared to many other linear switches available. This characteristic can often add a pleasurable acoustic dimension to typing. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is noted for its neutral sound profile, which balances moderate actuation force and sound, offering a more subdued but versatile auditory experience. This neutral sound makes the Speed Silver suitable for various environments, whether at home or in a professional setting, ensuring that it won’t be disruptive.

When it comes to feel, the Botany switch is recognized for offering a specific tactile experience, which is unfortunately not detailed here. On the other hand, the Speed Silver linear switch provides a mild typing experience, making it approachable for users of all skill levels. Its polished nature suggests that it has been refined for smoothness, resulting in reduced friction and a seamless key travel experience. This combination is ideal for those who prefer a gentle yet responsive feel while typing.

In conclusion, the Akko Botany's lively sound and undefined feel contrast with the TTC Speed Silver's neutral sound and mild yet polished typing experience. While both switches cater to different preferences in sound and tactile feedback, they can each provide a satisfying typing experience, just in their own unique ways. For users seeking a more vibrant auditory experience versus those looking for a softer, polished feel in their key presses, both switches can deliver excellent results depending on your priorities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, your choice between the Akko Botany linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch should be guided by your specific preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. If you favor a lighter switch that offers a lively and crisp sound straight out of the box, the Botany switch is an excellent choice. This switch's 45-gram actuation force is particularly suited for beginners or anyone who enjoys a responsive and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and precision—especially if you engage in fast-paced gaming or typing—then the Speed Silver with its 55-gram actuation force may suit you better. Its reduced travel distance and neutral sound profile make it ideal for those seeking a polished and mild typing experience that balances comfort with performance. Ultimately, your decision should reflect not only your typing habits but also the environment in which you will use the keyboard, whether for work or casual gaming.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Botany Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more

TTC Speed Silver Linear

$6.00

$4.58 per 10

Learn more