Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Akko Penguin mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with two distinct options that cater to different preferences. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a unique combination of features with a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, making it a favorite among keyboard enthusiasts who value a bouncy and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switches prioritize noise minimization, making them perfect for office environments where quietness is essential. With a fairly rounded tactile bump and a medium weight that strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, the Penguin switches provide a satisfying feedback without causing fatigue during 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
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
20mm
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Akko Penguin offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound profiles and overall typing experiences. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffness which leads to a more resonant sound. On the other hand, the Penguin's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both materials contribute to a satisfying typing experience, they provide different auditory sensations to the user.
In terms of bottom housing, both the V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Penguin utilize nylon, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This shared feature ensures that when typing on either switch, users can expect a consistent and pleasant auditory experience. The softness of nylon absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that enhances the overall typing feel. Despite the difference in the top housing material between the two switches, the common use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a similar sound quality and typing experience that users can appreciate.
The distribution of housing materials in a switch plays a significant role in shaping the typing experience. In switches where the top and bottom housings differ, such as the V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Penguin, the qualities of each material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. This means that the bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Understanding how these materials interact within the switch can help users determine which typing experience aligns best with their preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a slightly lighter actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Penguin's 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro requires 55 grams while the Penguin needs 60 grams, making the V3 Lavender Purple Pro the lighter option for typing. Both switches fall into the medium-light category in terms of actuation force, but the Penguin is considered medium in terms of bottom out force. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro provides a slightly lighter typing experience overall, which may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Penguin offers a bit more resistance, which some users may find provides a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Penguin, which means that it provides a bit more depth when pressing down on the key. On the other hand, the Penguin offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which can be preferred by those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, with the V3 Lavender Purple Pro being on the longer side and the Penguin being on the shorter side. Overall, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a deeper or quicker key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
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 V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch offers a higher-pitched profile that may appeal to users seeking a more distinct auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Penguin switch provides a muted sound, making it a great choice for those looking to minimize noise in office settings or shared spaces. Both switches have unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them would depend on the user's preference for a sharper or softer typing sound.
In terms of feel, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a tactile yet smooth typing experience that balances tactility with smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Penguin switch is also polished, but further offers a mild, feathery, and subtle typing feel. These qualities translate to a gentle keypress that minimizes finger fatigue and provides a comfortable experience for long typing sessions. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile bump, but the V3 Lavender Purple Pro may provide a slightly more pronounced tactility compared to the Penguin.
Taking into consideration the sound and feel characteristics of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, users can expect a unique typing experience tailored to their preferences. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a higher-pitched sound profile and a tactile yet smooth feel, while the Penguin provides a muted sound and a gentle, comfortable typing experience. Depending on whether users prioritize a distinct sound or a quiet typing experience, they can choose between these switches to enhance their overall keyboarding experience. Ultimately, both switches offer quality features that make them suitable options for different user needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, you should consider your preferences in terms of typing experience. If you enjoy a higher-pitched sound profile, a satisfying tactile bump, and a medium-light bottom out force, then the V3 Lavender Purple Pro would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize noise minimization in office environments, a fairly rounded tactile bump, a balanced medium weight, and a softer, quieter sound profile, the Akko Penguin switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard.
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