PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch offer unique qualities and characteristics. The Jacaranda is known for its gentle bottom-out of 43.5g, providing a fatigue-free typing experience with a clacky sound signature and a bouncy sensation due to its extended 22mm spring. On the other hand, the Penguin switches by Akko cater to those looking for a silent tactile option, featuring a rounded tactile bump for satisfying feedback while maintaining a quiet profile. While the Jacaranda leans towards a more clacky and high-pitched typing experience, the Penguin offers a polished and muted feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and specific needs. 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
39g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Akko Penguin differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Jacaranda features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Penguin utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both materials are classic choices for switch housings, they offer contrasting sound experiences to the user.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Jacaranda and the Penguin opt for nylon, which again contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Despite the switch in the top housing material between the two keyboards, the similarity in using nylon for the bottom housing showcases a shared emphasis on achieving a specific sound experience for the user. This consistency in material choice for the bottom housings may lead to a similar sound quality between the two keyboards in terms of how they feel and sound when pressed.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical keyboards such as the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Akko Penguin plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and overall typing experience. While the Jacaranda's polycarbonate top housing results in a clearer and more resonant sound, the Penguin's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. Both keyboards opt for a nylon bottom housing for its sound-absorbing properties, ensuring a consistent sound profile across the two keyboards despite their differences in top housing material. Ultimately, these housing materials cater to different preferences in sound and typing feel, providing users with a variety of options to suit their individual preferences.
Weight
In comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, it is evident that the Jacaranda has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Penguin. The Jacaranda requires 39 grams to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Penguin has a higher actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial push feel for those seeking a heavier typing experience. While both switches offer different force requirements, individuals looking for a lighter typing experience may opt for the Jacaranda, while those desiring a heavier feel may prefer the Akko Penguin. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's typing preferences and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, while the Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for faster response times. The Jacaranda has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Penguin, which may provide a slightly more pronounced keypress feel. However, the 0.2mm difference between the two switches may not be noticeable to all users. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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 Jacaranda switch offers a clacky and high-pitched profile, producing a sharp and audible feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the Penguin switch provides a more muted and neutral sound, making it ideal for quieter environments like offices. While the Jacaranda may be more attention-grabbing with its distinct sound signature, the Penguin offers a more subtle and unobtrusive typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Jacaranda switch is described as silky, offering a smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Penguin switch is described as polished, mild, feathery, and subtle, providing a refined and gentle typing feel that caters to a wider range of users. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Jacaranda emphasizing smoothness and the Penguin focusing on a more approachable and versatile feel.
Overall, the Jacaranda and Penguin switches offer different subjective qualities that cater to varying preferences. While the Jacaranda excels in producing a crisp and bouncy typing experience with its unique sound and silky feel, the Penguin stands out for its quiet and versatile profile that suits a broader range of users. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches provide distinct typing experiences that are sure to enhance your overall typing enjoyment. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing environment.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you value a light bottom-out force, a bouncy sensation during typing, and a clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a medium bottom-out force, a rounded tactile bump for satisfying feedback, and a muted sound profile for noise reduction in office settings, the Penguin switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns with your typing style and environment to enhance your overall keyboard experience.
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