Akko Penguin vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko Penguin and the Akko V3 Piano Pro are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences and needs. The Penguin stands out for its silent tactile feedback, making it an ideal choice for office settings where noise reduction is a priority. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro offers a snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, providing a lively and satisfying typing experience. While the Penguin excels in providing a balanced tactile bump and medium weight for comfortable extended use, the V3 Piano Pro charms with its crisp keystrokes and pleasing tactile feel. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of both the Akko Penguin and the Akko V3 Piano Pro are made of nylon, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This characteristic makes typing on both keyboards a more satisfying and immersive experience for users.
While both keyboards share the same nylon housing material for both the top and bottom housings, the impact of each housing on the overall typing experience differs. The bottom housing of a switch has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This means that even though the materials are the same, the way they interact with the typing process can provide slightly varied sensations for users of the Akko Penguin and the Akko V3 Piano Pro keyboards.
In terms of overall performance, the housing materials of the Akko Penguin and the Akko V3 Piano Pro offer similar benefits due to their nylon construction. The deep and full sound profile created by the nylon material enhances the typing experience on both keyboards, providing users with a satisfying tactile feedback. Despite any differences in how the top and bottom housings impact the typing process, the overall quality and feel of typing on these keyboards are likely to be very comparable, making them both solid options for those seeking a premium typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Akko Penguin tactile switch to the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, the Akko Penguin has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Akko V3 Piano Pro's 45 grams. However, the Penguin has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, while the V3 Piano Pro has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Akko Penguin requires less force to initially trigger a keystroke but ultimately requires more force to fully press down compared to the Akko V3 Piano Pro. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-light range of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a balance between typing comfort and feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on whether the user prefers a lighter initial press or a lighter overall typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for users who prefer faster response times, such as gamers. The Akko Penguin offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those who crave a more responsive feel. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro provides a slightly longer travel distance, which can offer a more substantial and satisfying keypress for those who prefer a bit more depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience you are looking for.
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 Akko V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro 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
In terms of sound, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is best described as muted and neutral, providing a softer and quieter typing experience that is suitable for various environments, especially office settings where noise reduction is essential. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is characterized by a clacky and resonant sound profile, offering a sharp and lively auditory feedback with each keystroke. Depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard and keycaps, users can choose between the subdued sound of the Penguin switch or the vibrant sound of the Piano Pro switch.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is known for being polished, mild, feathery, and subtle in terms of tactile feedback and typing experience. These qualities provide a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and light key travel, making it comfortable for extended periods of typing without causing finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offers a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing feel, providing a spring-like feedback and a smooth, buttery sensation with each key press. Users can choose between a gentle and polished typing feel with the Penguin switch or a bouncy and creamy typing experience with the Piano Pro switch.
In conclusion, the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and typing environments. The Penguin switch provides a quieter and more subdued typing experience, while the Piano Pro switch delivers a livelier and more vibrant tactile feedback. Both switches are designed with attention to detail and provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that users can find their preferred switch based on their sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the Akko Penguin tactile switch or the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, you should take into account your specific preferences and requirements. If you prioritize a silent typing experience for an office environment and enjoy a rounded tactile bump with medium bottom out force, then the Akko Penguin switch is an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a snappier sound signature with a smooth actuation and a lighter bottom out force, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the sound, feel, and use case that align best with your personal preferences and typing style.
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