Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro, a linear switch, and the Akko Penguin, a tactile switch, it's important to consider the characteristics that set them apart. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a budget-friendly option beloved by mechanical keyboard enthusiasts for its poppy, clacky sound and smooth feel, making it ideal for those who enjoy an engaging auditory experience with a creamy tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switches are designed with office environments in mind, offering a silent tactile experience with a rounded bump for satisfying feedback without noise. While the V3 Cream Yellow Pro leans towards being expressive and bouncy, the Penguin excels in providing a subtle, muted typing 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
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Akko Penguin, we can see that they both feature nylon for the bottom housing. Both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that is consistent across both switches. However, the top housing material differs between the two switches, with the V3 Cream Yellow Pro featuring a polycarbonate top housing and the Penguin featuring a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Penguin produces a deeper and fuller sound.
Despite the differences in top housing materials, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Penguin both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro's polycarbonate top housing provides a clear and resonant sound, ideal for those who prefer a sharper and crisper typing experience. On the other hand, the Penguin's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, appealing to users who enjoy a more rounded and mellow typing sound. While the housing materials may vary, both switches offer distinct auditory experiences that can enhance the overall typing experience for users.
It is important to note that the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the sound profile of a switch can vary. The qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch, influencing how the sound is produced when a key is pressed and released. The bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will affect the sound when a key is released. This division of housing materials allows for a more nuanced typing experience, tailored to individual preferences and typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch to the Akko Penguin tactile switch, there are some notable differences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Penguin's 43 grams. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a similar typing experience in terms of the resistance felt when fully pressing the key. The difference in actuation force may result in a slightly lighter typing experience with the Penguin switch, making it potentially more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons where fatigue may be a concern. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's slightly heavier actuation force may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch have a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This means that both switches will provide a similar tactile experience in terms of travel distance. The consistency in travel distance between the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Penguin allows for users to expect a familiar feel regardless of which switch they choose to use. Overall, the travel distance of 3.3 mm in both switches ensures a consistent typing experience for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Yellow Pro for $2.00.
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 Yellow Pro switch offers a poppy and clacky sound that provides an enjoyable auditory experience, perfect for those who appreciate a vibrant sound profile. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switch is designed for a more muted sound experience, ideal for environments where noise reduction is important, such as in office settings. The Penguin switch's neutral sound profile is suitable for a wide range of users, making it a versatile option in various scenarios.
Moving on to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch is described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished. These descriptors indicate that the switch offers a lightweight and smooth typing experience, reducing finger fatigue and providing a responsive feel. Similarly, the Akko Penguin switch is polished, mild, feathery, and subtle, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced strain on the fingers and a subtle sound signature. Both switches prioritize user comfort and typing efficiency, making them suitable for extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, while the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch offer different sound and feel profiles, they both prioritize user comfort and performance. The Cream Yellow Pro switch provides a vibrant and engaging sound experience paired with an easy-to-press and responsive feel, ideal for those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Penguin switch focuses on providing a muted sound profile and a mild, feathery feel, perfect for noise-sensitive environments and users looking for a comfortable typing experience. Depending on your preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, both switches offer high-quality performance that can enhance your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, consider your priorities. If you value a vibrant auditory experience paired with a creamy tactile feel at a budget-friendly price, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you work in an office environment where noise minimization is crucial and you prefer a rounded tactile bump for satisfying feedback without the loud clacks, then the Akko Penguin tactile switch would be the ideal option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics tailored to different preferences, so make your decision based on what matters most to you in terms of sound and feel.
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