TTC Flaming Pink vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Pink and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the TTC Flaming Pink and the Akko Penguin can significantly influence your typing experience. The TTC Flaming Pink switches are renowned for their smooth linear feel and satisfying bottom-out sound, making them an excellent option for gamers and everyday typists alike. With a bright yet controlled sound profile, these switches offer a premium typing experience without overwhelming noise. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switches cater to those seeking a tactile experience with their rounded bumps that provide satisfying feedback while maintaining a muted sound—ideal for office environments or quiet settings. Their medium weight balances responsiveness and ease of use, making them suitable for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. Both switches have their unique appeals; the Flaming Pink for those who prioritize speed and a crisp auditory response, and the Penguin for users who value tactile feedback in a quieter package. 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
43g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
24mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Flaming Pink and the Akko Penguin switches present a notable contrast in their acoustic properties and aesthetic qualities. The Flaming Pink's top housing is crafted from polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that serves to produce a sharper and crisper sound profile. This choice of material enhances the switch's responsiveness, contributing to a more pronounced sound, particularly when keys are released. The translucency of polycarbonate is an additional benefit, especially in setups featuring RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant illumination to pass through effectively. In contrast, the Akko Penguin switches utilize a nylon top housing, which is characterized by its softer and more absorbent properties. This leads to a deeper, rounder sound profile that contrasts significantly with the brightness of the Flaming Pink, providing users with a muted auditory experience that some may find preferable for a typing environment.
Despite the differences in their top housings, both the TTC Flaming Pink and the Akko Penguin switches share nylon as the material for their bottom housings. Since nylon is known for its sound-absorbing qualities, both switches will exhibit a deeper and fuller sound profile when bottoming out. This similarity means that while the Flaming Pink produces a clearer sound upon key release due to the polycarbonate top, the impact of the softer nylon bottom housing will provide a consistent depth that can contribute to an overall satisfying typing experience. Consequently, the shared characteristics of the nylon bottom housing help unify the auditory experience of these two otherwise distinct switches.
In practical terms, the combination of materials in each switch means that users may find different yet complementary typing experiences when using the TTC Flaming Pink and the Akko Penguin. The Flaming Pink's sharper and crisper sound upon release is ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback while typing, while the Penguin's deeper sound can contribute to a more subdued atmosphere, suitable for quieter settings. Ultimately, the distinct properties of their top housings create varied outcomes during use, while the common nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches retain some level of acoustic consistency. Thus, users can choose based on their preferences for sound profile and aesthetic appeal, knowing that each will deliver a satisfying tactile experience thanks to the shared material characteristics below.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, both exhibit the same actuation force of 43 grams, indicating that they require an equal amount of pressure to trigger a keystroke. This similarity suggests that users will experience comparable responsiveness when typing or gaming, making either switch a suitable choice for extended sessions without causing excessive strain. However, when examining the bottom out forces, a distinction emerges: the Flaming Pink has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it lighter, while the Penguin's bottom out force is heavier at 60 grams. This means that while both switches feel light during initial actuation, the Flaming Pink offers a gentler overall experience when bottoming out, perfect for those who prefer less resistance. In contrast, the Akko Penguin, with its heavier bottom out force, might appeal to users looking for a more substantial typing experience that provides greater feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, the Flaming Pink has a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Penguin measures 3.3 mm. This difference means that users who prefer a more responsive experience, often favored by gamers, might lean toward the Penguin for its shorter travel distance, which allows for quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial depth in their key presses might prefer the Flaming Pink, as its longer travel distance offers a more pronounced tactile feedback. As a result, users must weigh their preference for speed versus depth when selecting between these two switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Pink has an MSRP of $4.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Pink for $4.00.
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 TTC Flaming Pink switch offers a bright yet moderate sound profile that avoids being overly loud, making it a pleasant choice for both gaming and daily usage without disturbing those around you. It achieves a satisfying bottom-out sound without the harshness that some mechanical switches can produce. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switch is designed as a muted option, producing a softer and quieter sound that is ideal for environments where minimizing noise is essential, such as offices. It strikes a balance with a neutral sound profile, allowing it to cater to a wide range of users, whether beginners or seasoned typists.
When evaluating the feel of these switches, the Flaming Pink switch stands out for its smooth and responsive action, providing a premium typing experience that is particularly enjoyable during fast-paced gaming. In contrast, the Akko Penguin switch is characterized by its rounded tactile bump, which offers a polished and refined typing experience. Described as mild, feathery, and subtle, the Penguin maintains a gentle resistance, reducing finger fatigue during prolonged use while still offering tactile feedback that many users appreciate.
In conclusion, while both the TTC Flaming Pink and Akko Penguin switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, they can produce satisfying experiences in their respective areas. The Flaming Pink excels in providing a bright and lively sound with a smooth typing experience, making it suitable for a variety of activities. Meanwhile, the muted and tactile qualities of the Penguin make it perfect for quieter environments without sacrificing comfort during extended typing sessions. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a lively sound profile and smooth action or a quieter, tactile feedback experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy an incredibly smooth and responsive feel while typing, along with a light bottom-out force of 50 grams, the Flaming Pink is an excellent option, especially for gaming and everyday use where quick keystrokes are essential. Its satisfying bottom-out sound, though not overly loud, offers a delightful auditory feedback without overwhelming your environment. On the other hand, if you find yourself in a quieter workspace or seek a more tactile experience, the Akko Penguin with its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams is better suited for you. Its polished and muted characteristics provide a gentle but distinct tactile bump that ensures a satisfying feedback with each press, while also being considerate of noise levels. This makes the Penguin ideal for prolonged typing sessions, whether at the office or at home, allowing you to type comfortably without causing fatigue. Keeping these factors in mind will guide you toward the switch that best fits your lifestyle.
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