KTT Kang White vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the KTT Kang White and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Kang White and the Akko Penguin offer distinct typing experiences for users. The Kang White is a linear switch known for its dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness due to its self-lubricating material. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin is a tactile switch designed for a quiet typing experience, with a rounded tactile bump providing satisfying feedback while maintaining a low profile in office environments. While the Kang White is best suited for those who enjoy a poppy linear typing feel, the Akko Penguin is ideal for those seeking a silent tactile switch 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
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
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 housing materials for the KTT Kang White and the Akko Penguin switches are quite different in terms of the top housing. The Kang White utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. This results in a more clear and resonant sound compared to the Penguin's nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the Kang White's polycarbonate top housing is ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Penguin's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Kang White and the Akko Penguin switches use nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound for both switches, regardless of their top housing material. The split of housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch means that the qualities brought by each material will impact different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the KTT Kang White and the Akko Penguin switches lead to distinct sound profiles. The Kang White's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for RGB lighting, while the Penguin's nylon top housing results in a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a duller and rounder sound profile. While the top and bottom housings play different roles in the typing experience, the overall sound profile of each switch is determined by the combination of these materials.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, we can see that both switches have similar actuation forces, with the Kang White slightly lighter at 45 grams compared to the Penguin's 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Kang White requires 58 grams, while the Penguin needs 60 grams. This means that the Penguin switch is slightly heavier overall. The actuation force of a switch is important for triggering keystrokes efficiently, while the bottom out force determines the amount of pressure needed to fully press a key. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Kang White for extended typing sessions, while others may favor the heavier bottom out force of the Akko Penguin for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and pressure sensitivity.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Kang White linear switch is 4mm, while the Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm. This means that the Kang White has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Penguin. A shorter travel distance can be preferred for faster response times, which may make the Penguin more appealing to gamers. On the other hand, the Kang White may offer a more substantial key press feel due to its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user. Overall, both switches offer varying travel distances that cater to different preferences and needs in typing or gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 per 10 switches.
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 Kang White linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral typing experience, creating a pleasing bass-heavy tone without being too overpowering. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin tactile switch provides a muted and neutral sound profile, ideal for quiet environments such as office settings. Both switches aim to minimize noise while still offering a satisfying typing experience, catering to different preferences in terms of sound output. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether you prefer a low-pitched tone or a more muted sound.
In terms of feel, the Kang White switch does not have specific descriptors provided, so it may offer a standard linear typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is described as polished, mild, feathery, and subtle. This means that the Penguin switch provides a smooth typing experience with a gentle tactile bump and light actuation force, making it suitable for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. The Kang White switch may offer a more traditional linear feel, while the Penguin switch provides a more refined and comfortable typing experience overall.
In conclusion, the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Kang White is characterized by a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, while the Penguin provides a muted and polished typing experience with a gentle tactile bump. Both switches aim to provide a balance between performance and comfort, catering to different preferences in typing sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize a smooth linear typing experience with a poppy sound or a refined tactile experience with a quieter typing sound.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, you should consider your typing preferences and environment. If you are looking for a smooth and poppy typing experience with a low-pitched sound, the Kang White may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a quiet and satisfying tactile feedback with a balanced weight for extended typing sessions, the Akko Penguin switch would be a great option, especially in office settings where noise reduction is important. Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics, so choose the one that best suits your typing style and needs.
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