KTT Peach vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the KTT Peach and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between the KTT Peach linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs. The Peach switch offers a smooth typing experience with a deep, thocky sound profile, making it suitable for those who prioritize a quiet yet satisfying typing feel. On the other hand, the Penguin switch from Akko provides a rounded tactile bump for a tactile feedback that is muted and subtle, perfect for environments where noise reduction is crucial. 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
53g
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
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
13mm progressive spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Peach and the Akko Penguin, one can see a clear difference in the sound profiles they produce. The Peach's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the Penguin's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in sound can greatly impact the typing experience for users, with the Peach offering a crisper sound and the Penguin giving a more rounded tone.
However, both switches share similarities in their use of nylon for the bottom housing. This results in a consistent deep and full sound profile for both switches when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows for better sound absorption, leading to a duller sound overall. Despite the differences in their top housings, the nylon bottom housing provides a similar typing experience for both the Peach and the Penguin, ensuring a consistent sound profile when pressing down on the keys.
Overall, the housing materials of the KTT Peach and the Akko Penguin play a significant role in determining the sound profile of each switch. While the Peach's polycarbonate top housing offers a clear and resonant sound, the Penguin's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller tone. However, the shared use of nylon for the bottom housing results in a similar typing experience for both switches, with a consistent deep and full sound profile. Whether one prefers the sharper sound of the Peach or the rounder sound of the Penguin, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Peach linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, the Peach has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Penguin's 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Peach requires 53 grams while the Penguin needs 60 grams, making the Penguin the heavier option in this aspect. Both switches fall within the medium-light to medium range of force, providing a comfortable typing experience for users. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Peach for extended typing sessions, while others may appreciate the heavier bottom out force of the Penguin for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Peach linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Peach switch has a longer travel distance, making it better suited for those who prefer a more substantial depth and tactile feedback when typing. On the other hand, the Penguin switch has a shorter travel distance, ideal for gamers looking for faster response times and a more immediate feel when pressing down on the keys. Both switches offer different experiences when it comes to travel distance, catering to individual preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize depth and feedback or quicker response times in your typing experience.
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 Peach comes in at $2.91 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
The KTT Peach linear switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin tactile switch provides a muted sound, producing a softer and quieter typing experience ideal for office environments. In terms of feel, the Peach switch offers a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users, while the Penguin switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. Both switches strike a balance between comfort and performance, making them suitable for prolonged typing sessions.
Overall, the KTT Peach linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Peach switch provides a deep, thocky sound profile and a syrupy smooth typing experience, while the Penguin switch offers a rounded tactile bump with a quiet and satisfying feedback. Depending on your preference for sound and typing feel, both switches offer unique benefits that cater to different user needs. Whether you prefer a low-pitched sound and a gentle typing experience or a muted sound with a polished feel, both switches provide a comfortable and efficient typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the Peach and the Penguin switch will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Peach linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience and noise level. If you prioritize a smooth typing experience with a deep sound profile, the KTT Peach switch with its medium-light bottom out force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a balanced tactile feedback with a quiet profile, the Akko Penguin switch with its medium bottom out force could be the better option, especially for office environments. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a syrupy smooth typing experience with a low-pitched sound or a rounded tactile bump with a muted sound. Keep in mind your typing habits and environment to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Mentioned in this article
