Akko Penguin vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko Penguin and the SP-Star Polaris Purple mechanical keyboard switches, both fall under the tactile switch category but offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The Akko Penguin is renowned for its silent tactile switches, making it an ideal choice for office settings where noise reduction is a priority. With a rounded tactile bump, it delivers satisfying feedback with minimal noise, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple stands out for its big tactile bump, providing an exhilarating typing experience with a snappy sound profile. While the Penguin switch offers a more subdued typing experience, the Polaris Purple switch delivers a more pronounced 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Penguin and the SP-Star Polaris Purple both have unique characteristics that affect the sound profiles of the switches. While the Penguin features a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound, the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate material. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate top housing of the Polaris Purple is advantageous for RGB lighting due to its translucency, while the Penguin's nylon top housing offers a classic switch housing material.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Akko Penguin and SP-Star Polaris Purple also exhibit distinct characteristics. Both switches feature nylon and polycarbonate bottom housings, respectively, which mirror the qualities of their respective top housings. The nylon bottom housing of the Penguin offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Purple produces a sharper and crisper sound. The impact of the bottom housing is particularly noticeable in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
Although the housing materials of the Akko Penguin and SP-Star Polaris Purple differ, they both play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound profile of the switches. The softer nylon material of the Penguin absorbs more sound, creating a duller sound, while the stiffer polycarbonate of the Polaris Purple produces a more resonant and clear sound. Whether it's the top or bottom housing, each material contributes to the switch's sound characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing can impact not only the sound but also the aesthetic appeal of the switch, especially when considering features like RGB lighting.
Weight
The Akko Penguin tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Polaris Purple is heavier at 67 grams, while the Penguin requires 60 grams for bottoming out. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, providing a balance between a light and heavy typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience, considering factors such as typing endurance and tactile feedback. Regardless of the choice, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it is clear that there are differences between the two. The Penguin has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Polaris Purple has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Penguin's shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for a faster response time, while the Polaris Purple's longer travel distance may appeal to those looking for a more substantial keypress. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Penguin offering quicker keypresses and the Polaris Purple providing a more deliberate feel.
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 SP-Star Polaris Purple has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Purple for $5.00.
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 Akko Penguin tactile switch is known for its muted sound profile, making it a great option for quieter environments like offices. It offers a neutral sound that is suitable for various purposes and skill levels. In terms of feel, the Penguin switch is described as polished, mild, feathery, and subtle, providing a smooth, gentle typing experience with reduced finger fatigue. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch offers a snappy sound profile and a neutral feel that is polished and mild, giving users a refined typing experience that is approachable to most. With both switches featuring similar sound and feel qualities, users can expect a satisfying tactile feedback with each press and a balanced typing experience that caters to different preferences and needs. Ultimately, whether choosing the Akko Penguin or the SP-Star Polaris Purple, users can expect a high-quality tactile switch that ensures a pleasant typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. If you are in an office setting where noise reduction is important, the Akko Penguin switch with its muted sound profile and balanced tactile bump may be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a more exhilarating tactile typing experience and enjoy a snappy sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch with its big tactile bump might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for key feel, sound profile, and bottom out force. Consider these factors carefully to choose the switch that aligns best with your typing needs.
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