Akko Botany vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Akko Botany and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Botany and Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear provide distinct options that cater to varying preferences. The Akko Botany switches are celebrated for their lively, crisp clacky sound, making them an excellent choice for typists who enjoy auditory feedback and a vibrant typing experience. These linear switches offer a smooth actuation with a slightly more pronounced sound, adding a touch of character to each keystroke. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches by Wuque Studio excel in creating an elegant, quiet workspace. With their innovative stem railings featuring discreet cutouts, they significantly diminish noise while still delivering impressive responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out feel. Unlike traditional silent switches that often rely on silicone dampeners, the WS Silent Linear preserves a more authentic typing experience, making it a preferred option for those who appreciate precision with minimal disruption. Both switches have their merits, whether you're after a lively sound profile or a serene environment; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Nylon Pro
Stem material
POM
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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko Botany and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear both utilize nylon for their switch housings, both on the top and bottom. This shared choice of material results in a similar sound profile, characterized by a deeper and fuller auditory experience. Since nylon is a softer plastic compared to harder materials, it efficiently absorbs sound, which translates to a duller and rounder typing experience. This characteristic makes both switches feel more muted, leading to a more cushioned typing experience that many users appreciate. Consequently, users can expect a consistent sound and feedback when typing on either switch, making them ideal for noise-sensitive environments or for individuals who prefer a less intrusive sound profile.
While both the Akko Botany and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear feature nylon in their top and bottom housings, their manufacturing may differ slightly in terms of design or production techniques, which could subtly influence the overall feel and response of the switches. If the switches were to incorporate additional elements, such as springs or other components, their performance and feedback could vary despite the materials being identical. However, the key takeaway is that the nylon material across both housing types will yield similar acoustic characteristics, allowing users to enjoy a cohesive sound profile when pressing down and releasing the keys.
In terms of performance, the impact of nylon as a switch housing material manifests in how both the Akko Botany and Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear behave under pressure. The bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out feel and sound when the key is pressed down, while the top housing influences the sound upon release. With both switches employing nylon for both housings, users can expect a uniform experience in both key press and release dynamics, enhancing their overall tactile feedback and auditory pleasure. This consistency makes either switch a suitable choice for keyboard enthusiasts seeking a balanced performance rooted in quality material.
Weight
The Akko Botany linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, influencing their overall typing experience. The Akko Botany switch features a light actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an excellent choice for extended typing sessions, as it requires less effort to activate. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear switch has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while its actuation force is unknown. Without a specified actuation force, we cannot make a direct comparison for that aspect, but the noticeable difference in bottom out force indicates a firmer feel when fully pressed. Consequently, the Akko Botany switch is lighter and better suited for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, while the WS Silent Linear, with its heavier bottom out, may appeal to users seeking a more substantial key feel. Ultimately, if the actuation force of the WS Silent Linear is also heavy, it would suggest a stronger tactile feedback, positioning it as a distinctive alternative for different typing preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Botany linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, the Botany has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Silent Linear measures 3.5 mm. This makes the Botany switch the longer option by 0.1 mm. In terms of responsiveness, those who favor quicker key presses may prefer the WS Silent Linear with its slightly shorter travel distance, as this can provide faster response times, especially in gaming contexts. Conversely, the Botany's longer travel distance may offer a more satisfying tactile experience for users who appreciate a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for depth and responsiveness in their typing or gaming experience.
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 Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear comes in at $4.20 per 10 switches.
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
The Akko Botany switch produces a crisp, lively clacky sound that brings a certain character to your typing experience. This engaging auditory feedback is particularly enjoyable for users who appreciate the traditional sound profile associated with mechanical switches. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch offers a significantly different auditory experience with its muted and subdued qualities. Designed to minimize noise, these switches perform quietly and are well-suited for office environments or shared spaces where noise reduction is a priority. The Botany’s vibrant sound makes it ideal for those looking to enjoy that quintessential mechanical keyboard noise, while the WS Silent Linear caters to users who prefer discretion without sacrificing responsiveness.
When it comes to feel, the Botany switch lacks a specific description but is known for its lively characteristics which typically indicate a tactile typing experience. This general characterization suggests that it may provide a more engaging and dynamic typing sensation. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear is designed to deliver a mild feel, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable for most users. Its exceptional responsiveness combined with a satisfying bottom-out allows for an enjoyable typing experience without the harshness found in some other linear switches. While the Botany might appeal to those who favor a more spirited typing touch, the WS Silent Linear serves well for users seeking comfort and ease of use.
In summary, the Akko Botany and Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches present contrasting qualities that cater to different preferences. The Botany excels in delivering a vibrant sound profile while potentially offering a more dynamic feel, ideal for those who revel in the classic mechanical keyboard experience. Conversely, the WS Silent Linear excels in providing a quiet and refined typing experience without relying on physical dampeners, making it perfect for quieter environments. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize sound and excitement or discretion and subtlety in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you prefer a lighter key feel and enjoy a more lively, somewhat clacky sound profile, the Akko Botany switches might be the better option for you. They are ideal for a more expressive typing experience, whether you're gaming or typing up documents where a bit of auditory feedback enhances your engagement. On the other hand, if you're working in a shared space or prefer a more subdued typing experience, the WS Silent Linear switches will serve you well. Their design minimizes noise while providing a satisfying and responsive feel, making them perfect for an office setting or situations where you want to maintain a quieter atmosphere. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal comfort and the context in which you intend to use the keyboard, ensuring a delightful typing experience tailored to your needs.
Mentioned in this article
