TTC Gold Red vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Red linear switch with the Akko Penguin tactile switch, there are key differences that may cater to different preferences. The Gold Red offers a smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, while also providing a snappy sound profile that adds character without being overpowering. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin stands out for its silent tactile feedback, making it ideal for quiet office environments. With a rounded tactile bump and medium weight, the Penguin strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort, perfect for prolonged typing sessions. 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
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
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Red and the Akko Penguin both feature different housing materials for their top and bottom components. The Gold Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. On the other hand, the Penguin's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the polycarbonate in the Gold Red is more resonant, whereas the nylon in the Penguin creates a rounder sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Gold Red and the Penguin feature nylon as the material of choice. This commonality means that both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the absorbing qualities of nylon. While the top housing material may have a greater impact on the sound when pressing a key, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Therefore, despite the differences in the top housing materials between the Gold Red and the Penguin, the similarity in using nylon for the bottom housing ensures a comparable typing experience in terms of sound profile.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in both the TTC Gold Red and the Akko Penguin plays a significant role in determining the sound profile of the switches. The Gold Red's polycarbonate top housing offers a clearer and more resonant sound, while the Penguin's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches using nylon create a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. Ultimately, the differences in housing materials contribute to the unique characteristics of each switch, catering to different preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch both have the same actuation force of 43 grams, making them light switches in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Red requires 50 grams, which is lighter compared to the Penguin's 60 grams, making it a medium force switch for pressing all the way down. This means that the Gold Red switch provides a lighter typing experience overall, which may be preferred by those looking for a more effortless typing feel. On the other hand, the Penguin switch offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and overall typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, it is clear that the Gold Red has a slightly longer travel distance at 4 mm compared to the Penguin's 3.3 mm. The Gold Red offers a more traditional distance, while the Penguin provides a slightly shorter option. Gamers may prefer the Penguin for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial key press may lean towards the Gold Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
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 Gold Red linear switch is best described as having a thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound profile. This means you can expect deep, satisfying sound with a moderate level of noise, making it suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin tactile switch offers a muted and neutral sound, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to the Gold Red. While both switches have a similar neutral sound profile, the Gold Red may have a slightly deeper and more satisfying sound due to its thocky nature.
Moving on to the feel, both the Gold Red and Akko Penguin switches share characteristics of being polished and mild switches, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance. The Gold Red, additionally described as silky and subtle, provides a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance that minimizes fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. In comparison, the Akko Penguin is also feathery and subtle, meaning it requires little exertion and maintains a light typing feel suitable for shared spaces and extended use.
Overall, while the TTC Gold Red and Akko Penguin switches have some similarities in terms of their polished and mild typing feel, they offer different sound profiles. The Gold Red linear switch provides a deeper, more satisfying sound with a moderate noise level, while the Akko Penguin tactile switch offers a quieter and softer typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and typing feel, either of these switches can provide a pleasant typing experience for different environments and needs. Ultimately, it is important to test out both switches to determine which one aligns best with your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Red linear switch or the Akko Penguin tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a lighter switch with a buttery smooth typing experience and a snappy sound profile, the Gold Red may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you require a switch with a rounded tactile bump and a quieter sound profile, especially for office environments, the Akko Penguin switch could be the more suitable option. Additionally, if reducing finger fatigue is a priority for you, the feathery feel of the Penguin switch may be more appealing. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so make your decision based on what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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