KTT Hyacinth vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Hyacinth and Akko Penguin are both unique mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct features suited for different preferences and needs. The Hyacinth, a linear switch, is designed with a 3.5mm travel distance to prevent a hard bottoming-out experience, striking a balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. On the other hand, the Penguin, a tactile switch, is known for its silent tactile bump that provides satisfying feedback while maintaining a quiet profile, making it an ideal choice for office environments. The Penguin also offers a medium weight that balances responsiveness and ease of use for prolonged typing sessions. While the Hyacinth aims for consistency in force curve with its single-stage elongated spring, the Penguin focuses on noise minimization and comfort. 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
56g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and the Akko Penguin switches have distinct characteristics that influence the sound profile and typing experience. The Hyacinth's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharp, high-pitched sound due to its stiffness, while the Penguin's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound by absorbing more sound vibrations. Both materials offer unique sound profiles, with polycarbonate providing a clear and resonant tone and nylon creating a duller and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer exceptional sound quality based on their top housing materials, showcasing the importance of material selection in switch design.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Hyacinth and Penguin switches utilize nylon for its softer composition and sound-absorbing properties. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches when typing. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, impacting the overall typing experience. By incorporating nylon in the bottom housing, both switches aim to enhance the tactile feedback and acoustic response when typing. The similarities in bottom housing material highlight a shared emphasis on creating a tactile and responsive typing experience for users.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Hyacinth and Penguin switches differ, they each contribute distinct qualities to the overall sound profile and typing feel. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a balanced combination of characteristics that cater to different aspects of the typing experience. The top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. By utilizing unique housing materials for different parts of the switch, both the Hyacinth and Penguin switches offer a diverse range of sound profiles and tactile responses for users to enjoy.
Weight
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, making it a medium-light option. In comparison, the Akko Penguin tactile switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is also considered medium. The Hyacinth is slightly lighter in actuation force compared to the Penguin, but the Penguin requires more force to bottom out. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Hyacinth for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may appreciate the heavier bottom out force of the Penguin for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Akko Penguin tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. In terms of comparison, both switches offer relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the Hyacinth for its slightly longer travel distance, allowing for a more deliberate key press, while those looking for faster response times may opt for the Penguin with its slightly shorter travel distance. Overall, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, so users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Hyacinth has an MSRP of $4.03 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hyacinth for $3.75.
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 KTT Hyacinth linear switch is known for its neutral profile, offering a moderate level of sound suitable for various environments and users. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin tactile switch provides a muted sound, making it ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience, especially in office settings or shared spaces. While both switches fall under the neutral descriptor, the Hyacinth may edge out slightly in versatility due to its balanced sound profile.
In terms of feel, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch delivers a silky and subtle typing experience, emphasizing smoothness and gentle resistance for comfortable extended use. In contrast, the Akko Penguin tactile switch offers a polished and mild feel, ensuring a refined typing experience with reduced friction and a gentle touch. Additionally, the Penguin switch also provides a feathery sensation, requiring minimal finger exertion and reducing fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. The subtle characteristic shared by both switches signifies a light and approachable typing feel suitable for various users.
In conclusion, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch offer distinct qualities in sound and feel, catering to different preferences and environments. The Hyacinth excels in providing a balanced sound profile and a silky, subtle typing experience, ideal for those seeking comfort and consistency. On the other hand, the Penguin stands out for its muted sound and polished, mild feel, emphasizing a refined typing experience with reduced friction and gentle key presses. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound level, typing feel, and intended usage.
Conclusion
In summary, if you prioritize a smooth and consistent typing experience with a moderate actuation force and sound profile, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch would be a great choice for you. Its design focuses on tactile feedback and user comfort while offering a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that provides a rounded tactile bump for satisfying feedback, is silent for office environments, and strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is the way to go. With a medium weight and features like polished finish for smooth key travel, these switches are ideal for extended typing sessions. Consider your preferences and needs to determine the best fit for your mechanical keyboard setup. Both the Hyacinth and Penguin switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different user needs and preferences in the mechanical keyboard realm. Ultimately, the choice between them boils down to your personal typing style and environment requirements.
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