Akko Botany vs. Gateron Type L

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Botany and Gateron Type L are two compelling linear options that cater to distinct preferences and needs of users. The Botany is celebrated for its crisp, lively clacky sound, offering a tactile experience that brings an engaging auditory aspect to typing. This switch provides a satisfying response, ideal for those who appreciate auditory feedback and a more traditional typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L stands out as a key innovation from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" / SLAY series. Known for its lightweight feel requiring only 45 grams to bottom out, the Type L delivers a deeper acoustic signature, making it well-suited for users who prioritize a more subdued and refined typing sound with effortless keystrokes. While the Botany excels in providing an energized and audible typing experience, the Type L is designed for a softer touch with a focus on smoothness and subtlety. 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

Gateron Type L Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

$4.70 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Akko Botany and Gateron Type L switches share a commonality in their housing materials, with both featuring nylon for their top and bottom housings. As a classic choice in switch design, nylon is recognized for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This sound enhancement is attributed to nylon's relatively softer nature compared to harder plastics, allowing it to absorb sound and create a rounder, more muted auditory experience. As a result, users of both the Akko Botany and Gateron Type L can expect a similar acoustic performance from their switches, likely translating into a satisfying and cohesive typing experience.

Examining the housings more closely reveals that the consistent use of nylon in both switches contributes significantly to their overall sound signature. Since both the top and bottom housings of the Botany and the Type L are made of the same nylon material, typing on either switch can elicit a comparable tactile response and auditory feedback. The housing design effectively isolates sounds and vibrations, leading to a quiet bottom-out experience and a smooth release when lifting off a key. With this homogeneity in material, the switches not only feel similar while typing, but they also reflect that quality in their sound characteristics, reinforcing a consistent user experience across both products.

However, should there be an instance in which the top and bottom housings differ in material—though this is not the case with the Botany and Type L—one can expect a diversification of sound and feel depending on the characteristics inherent to each material. With the nylon composition intact for both switch types, this potential variance is moot, as each housing part complements the other to maintain a unified acoustic profile. Thus, if one were to compare these two switches directly, the prediction would hold true that the auditory and tactile sensations experienced while utilizing either switch would remain close to identical, establishing a sense of reliability for users who appreciate the benefits of nylon housing in mechanical switches.

Weight

The Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch share identical specifications when it comes to actuation force and bottom out force. Both switches have an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, categorizing them as light switches. This similarity in force means that users can expect a comparable typing experience from both switches, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons without inducing fatigue. However, the consistent actuation and bottom out forces may appeal differently based on personal preference; those who enjoy a lighter touch will find both options equally satisfying, while users looking for a more robust feel would likely benefit from exploring heavier alternatives. Ultimately, both the Akko Botany and Gateron Type L switches provide a delicate balance of responsiveness and comfort, ideal for those who favor a lighter switch profile.

Travel distance

The Akko Botany linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Type L linear switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference in travel distances results in varying tactile experiences when typing or gaming. The Botany switch, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to those who prefer quicker response times, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming. On the other hand, the Type L switch offers a more traditional feel with its 4 mm travel distance, providing a heartier depth that some users may find more satisfying for typing or casual gaming. Ultimately, if you prioritize agility and responsiveness, the Botany switch would be the better choice, whereas the Type L switch might be preferred by those who favor a more deliberate keystroke experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Akko Botany linear switch stands out with its crisp and lively clacky audio signature that is apparent right from the initial keystrokes. This lively sound can add character to your typing experience, making each press feel satisfying and engaging. In contrast, the Gateron Type L has a sound profile that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum, characterized as neutral and subdued. While not completely silent, the Type L produces a dampened sound, making it an ideal choice for environments where a less disruptive typing noise is desired. Both switches therefore offer distinct auditory experiences, with the Botany being more pronounced and the Type L providing a quieter, deeper acoustics.

When it comes to feel, the Botany's specific tactile qualities remain unspecified, but it is likely to provide a generally smooth experience typical of linear switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L is characterized by its exceptionally light feel, requiring only 45g of force to bottom out. This design leads to a feathery touch that significantly reduces finger fatigue, making it more comfortable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. The Type L's easy-to-press nature enhances its overall responsiveness and minimizes strain on the fingers. Thus, while the Botany's feel is not explicitly detailed, the Type L offers a very friendly and accessible typing experience.

In conclusion, the Akko Botany and Gateron Type L linear switches cater to different preferences when it comes to sound and feel. The Botany delivers an energizing clacky sound, while the Type L offers a more muted yet deeper acoustic profile. On the feel front, the Type L shines with its light actuation and reduced finger strain, though the specifics of the Botany's feel are not defined. By considering these aspects, both switches present attractive benefits; your choice will ultimately depend on whether you prefer a more lively auditory experience or a gentler, quieter typing feel.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider your specific usage and sound preferences. If you appreciate a lively and crisp acoustic profile that can energize your typing experience, the Botany switch is an excellent choice. Its engaging sound signature can bring a bit of character to your keyboard setup. However, if you prefer a more subdued and neutral sound that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum, the Type L may be more suited for you. Additionally, if you prioritize comfort during long typing sessions, both switches offer a light bottom-out force of 45 grams, but the Type L excels with its feathery and easy-to-press feel, minimizing finger fatigue. Ultimately, if you desire a switch that enhances your keystrokes with a distinct auditory and tactile feedback, the Botany is the way to go. On the other hand, if you want seamless and effortless performance ideal for extended use, the Gateron Type L should be your pick. Whatever your preference, both switches have unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and environments.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Botany Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Type L Linear

$4.70 per 10

Learn more