Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, you are presented with two distinct options that cater to different preferences and needs. The Cream Black Pro V3 stands out for its budget-friendly yet high-quality construction, offering a unique poppy and clacky sound paired with a smooth feel. On the other hand, the Penguin switch boasts a silent tactile experience, making it ideal for office settings where noise reduction is essential. While the Cream Black Pro V3 is characterized by its creamy, high-pitched nature, the Penguin switch is known for its polished, muted feedback. 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
55g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
One key difference between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Akko Penguin is the material used for their top housing. The V3 Cream Black Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Penguin utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. While polycarbonate is praised for its stiffness and clear resonance, nylon is favored for its softer composition and sound-absorption properties. These differences in material result in distinct auditory experiences when typing on each switch.
Both the V3 Cream Black Pro and the Akko Penguin share a commonality in their choice of nylon for the bottom housing. This classic switch housing material is known to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. As a result, while the top housing material may differ between the two switches, users can expect a similar tactile and auditory experience when pressing down on the keys. The nylon bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, offering a consistent typing experience across both models.
In considering the impact of housing materials on the overall sound and feel of a switch, it's important to recognize how these qualities are divided between the top and bottom housings. The V3 Cream Black Pro's polycarbonate top housing contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile when keys are released, while its nylon bottom housing adds depth and fullness to the typing experience. Conversely, the Akko Penguin's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound when keys are pressed, complemented by its nylon bottom housing for a consistent feel throughout typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, it is evident that the V3 Cream Black Pro has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Penguin. The V3 Cream Black Pro requires 55 grams to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Penguin has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, classified as a medium switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Penguin switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. In contrast, users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the V3 Cream Black Pro, providing a stronger push during keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of the two switches, it's clear that they offer a similar typing experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that whether you choose the V3 Cream Black Pro or the Penguin switch, you can expect to get similar results in terms of key travel distance. Overall, both switches provide a consistent typing experience with the same amount of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has an MSRP of $3.77 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Black Pro for $2.70.
The Akko Penguin has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Penguin for $3.10.
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 V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is known for its high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp sound upon each press. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is characterized by a muted sound, offering a softer and quieter typing experience. The V3 Cream Black Pro will deliver a more vibrant and poppy sound, whereas the Penguin switch focuses on minimizing noise levels, making it an ideal choice for quieter environments such as offices. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the V3 Cream Black Pro being more high-pitched and the Penguin being more neutral in terms of sound.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is renowned for its creamy and bouncy typing experience. This switch offers smooth and buttery key presses, allowing for a silky sensation when typing. Additionally, the bouncy characteristic provides a spring-like feedback, giving the keys a lively feel. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin tactile switch offers a polished and mild typing experience. With a smooth and refined finish, the Penguin switch ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel. It also provides a gentle typing experience, suitable for most users with its approachable qualities. The feathery and subtle characteristics of the Penguin switch make it comfortable for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles tailored to different preferences. The V3 Cream Black Pro excels in delivering a high-pitched and creamy typing experience, accompanied by a vibrant and poppy sound. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin provides a muted and polished feel, with a quieter sound profile ideal for office settings. Whether you prefer a sharper and livelier typing experience or a smoother and quieter one, both switches offer quality performance and unique characteristics that will enhance your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch or the Akko Penguin tactile switch, you should take into account your preferences and needs. If you value a smooth and poppy sound, along with a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the V3 Cream Black Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a silent typing experience with a rounded tactile bump and medium bottom-out force, the Akko Penguin switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on factors such as sound profile, typing feel, and the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences and requirements.
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