TTC Flame Red vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between linear and tactile switches can greatly impact your typing experience. The TTC Flame Red is a linear switch that stands out for its stunning light diffusion, making it perfect for those who prefer a backlit, RGB keyboard setup. Typing on these switches provides a smooth and weighty feel, accompanied by a satisfying clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin offers a tactile switch option, ideal for those looking for a quieter typing experience suited for office environments. With a rounded tactile bump and medium weight, the Penguin switches strike a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, making them perfect for extended typing sessions. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, 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
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Akko Penguin, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon as the material for both their top and bottom housing components. This results in a similar typing experience for both switches, as nylon is known to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. The duller and rounder sound produced by nylon contributes to a more satisfying typing experience for users of both switches.
However, despite both the Flame Red and the Penguin using nylon for their housing materials, there may be subtle differences in the typing experience due to variations in manufacturing processes. The top housing of a switch can impact the sound when a key is released, whereas the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. These distinctions could result in slight variations in the overall typing experience between the two switches, with users potentially noticing subtle differences in the sound and feel of each keystroke.
Overall, the use of nylon for both the top and bottom housing components of the Flame Red and the Penguin switches ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback. The absorption of sound by nylon contributes to a quieter typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound, creating a more satisfying typing experience for users of both switches. While differences in the manufacturing process may lead to subtle variations in the typing experience, the fundamental qualities of nylon as a switch housing material ensure a similar overall performance for both the Flame Red and the Penguin switches.
Weight
The TTC Flame Red linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Akko Penguin tactile switch with an actuation force of 43 grams. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Flame Red at 54 grams and the Penguin at 60 grams. This means that the Flame Red switch is lighter overall, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switch provides a stronger push feel, giving users a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, it is clear that the Flame Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Penguin's 3.3 mm. The Flame Red's travel distance falls within the more traditional range, providing a slightly deeper key press experience. On the other hand, the Penguin offers a shallower travel distance, which may appeal to those seeking a quicker response time, such as gamers. Both switches have their own advantages - the Flame Red for a more substantial key press and the Penguin for a faster reaction. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
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
When it comes to sound, the Flame Red switch offers a neutral experience with a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Penguin switch is described as having a muted sound profile, ideal for quiet office settings or shared spaces. Both switches provide a satisfactory sound experience, with the Flame Red being more versatile and the Penguin offering a quieter typing experience.
In terms of feel, both the Flame Red and Penguin switches are described as having a polished finish, resulting in smooth and refined typing experiences. They both offer a mild typing experience, making them approachable to most users. However, the Penguin switch also includes characteristics such as feathery and subtle, providing a light and comfortable typing feel that reduces finger fatigue. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable and smooth typing experience, with the Penguin switch being slightly more tailored towards reducing fatigue during prolonged typing sessions.
In conclusion, the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and environments. The Flame Red is more versatile in its sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users, while the Penguin switch excels in minimizing noise for quieter environments. Both switches provide a polished and comfortable typing experience, with the Penguin offering additional features like a feathery feel for reduced finger fatigue. Whether choosing the Flame Red or Penguin switch, users can expect a satisfying and smooth typing experience tailored to their specific needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, consider the following guidelines based on your needs and preferences. If you value a visually stunning switch with a backlit RGB keyboard and enjoy a weighty smoothness with a clacky sound profile, the Flame Red would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet typing experience for office environments, along with a rounded tactile bump for satisfying feedback and medium weight for prolonged typing sessions without fatigue, then the Akko Penguin switch would be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a switch with dazzling visuals and clacky sound (Flame Red) or a silent tactile switch with a balanced feel (Penguin). Choose the switch that aligns best with your specific preferences and typing needs.
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