Akko Botany vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When diving into the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the differences between the Akko Botany and the HMX Twilight linear switches become apparent, offering users distinct tactile experiences. The Botany switches are celebrated for their vibrant, lively clacky sound straight out of the box, making them an excellent choice for those who enjoy an auditory feedback while typing or gaming. In contrast, the HMX Twilight boasts a generous travel distance of 3.85mm, which not only contributes to a smoother feel but also results in a slightly quieter operation while still holding onto the familiar clacky sound associated with HMX switches. Both switches cater to enthusiasts looking for precise and responsive typing experiences, with the Botany appealing to those favoring acoustic feedback and the Twilight attracting users who prefer a more controlled and less noisy experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.85 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon Pro
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Akko Botany and the HMX Twilight utilize the same housing materials—nylon for both the top and bottom housings—resulting in analogous sound profiles and tactile sensations while typing. Nylon is renowned within the mechanical keyboard community for its ability to create a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This characteristic is significant because it allows for greater sound absorption compared to harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound. Thus, both keyboards provide users with a similar auditory experience, making them appealing options for those who prioritize sound quality in their typing experience.
While the choice of nylon in both models leads to similar sound characteristics, the subtle interplay between the top and bottom housings still plays a crucial role in how the switches feel and sound during use. With both the Botany and the Twilight featuring nylon in both components, users can expect a consistent experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound that is produced when a key is released. Since the nylon material absorbs sound effectively, it minimizes harshness and reflects a softer acoustic profile consistently across both keyboards.
In summary, the Akko Botany and HMX Twilight keyboards' use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings creates a similar typing experience characterized by a rich sound profile and comfortable tactile feedback. The consistent choice of housing material means that users will not only benefit from the same auditory quality but also experience comparable levels of comfort and satisfaction with each keystroke. Whether one opts for the Botany or the Twilight, the deployment of nylon as the housing material ensures that a high standard of performance is maintained across both models.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, we see a slight difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Botany switch has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Twilight switch features a slightly higher actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Consequently, the Botany switch is the lighter option, which may appeal to users who prefer a keyboard that minimizes finger fatigue during long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Twilight switch, being the heavier of the two, can provide a more substantial typing experience, which some users may find preferable for tactile feedback. Despite both switches being classified as light, the difference in force metrics may influence individual preferences regarding comfort and responsiveness in usage.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Botany linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, it is clear that the Botany has a shorter travel distance at 3.6 mm, while the Twilight measures 3.85 mm. This difference in travel distance can significantly impact the typing experience; the Botany may be more appealing for gamers seeking quick responsiveness due to its shorter travel distance, allowing for faster actuation. Conversely, those who prefer a more substantial feel may find the Twilight's longer travel distance of 3.85 mm more satisfying, as it offers a greater depth that some users desire. In summary, the Botany is the shorter of the two, and the Twilight is longer, catering to different preferences in typing and gaming scenarios.
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 HMX Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight for $3.29.
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 produces a crisp, lively clacky sound that is vibrant right out of the box, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate an audible keypress. In contrast, the HMX Twilight linear switch has a slightly quieter profile due to its extended 3.85mm travel distance, although it retains the recognizable clacky characteristics associated with HMX switches. The overall auditory experience for both switches can be influenced by external factors, such as the type of keyboard frame and keycaps used, resulting in different sound profiles.
When it comes to feel, the Botany switch is known for delivering a smooth and satisfying experience. This smoothness enhances the overall typing rhythm and improves tactile feedback, making it a joy to use for both gaming and typing. The HMX Twilight, on the other hand, provides an enjoyable linear experience with its longer travel distance, which contributes to a sense of depth and fluidity during key presses. This design might result in an experience that some users find more gradual and less abrupt, which could appeal to those who prefer a more deliberate typing style.
In conclusion, the Akko Botany and HMX Twilight linear switches each offer unique auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. While the Botany is celebrated for its lively sound and smooth feel, the Twilight leans towards a quieter operation with an extended travel distance that introduces a different typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches have their own merits and can be chosen based on individual preferences, ensuring that users can achieve satisfying results in their mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Akko Botany linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the type of experience you want from your mechanical keyboard. If you prefer a lighter touch and enjoy a crisp and lively sound, the Botany switches would likely be your best choice. Their lighter 45 grams bottom-out force allows for quicker actuation, making them ideal for fast typists and gamers who thrive on responsiveness. Conversely, if you find yourself favoring a slightly heavier switch that offers a quieter typing experience but still retains a clacky disposition, the HMX Twilight switch would be more suited to your needs. With an extended travel distance of 3.85mm, the Twilight provides a unique blend of smoothness and responsiveness, catering to someone who may be focused more on a balanced performance with a touch of acoustic charm. Ultimately, consider how you want your keyboard to feel and sound while also taking into account whether you prioritize speed or a more subdued auditory experience.
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