Akko Penguin vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Akko Penguin and the KTT Purple Click. The Akko Penguin is a tactile switch that is perfect for office environments due to its quiet profile and rounded tactile bump, providing a satisfying feedback without causing noise disruptions. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click is a clicky switch known for its high-pitched, satisfying click and light keystrokes that offer a pronounced tactility. While the Akko Penguin is ideal for those looking for a quiet and medium-weight switch for prolonged typing sessions, the KTT Purple Click offers a more invigorating and resonant typing experience. 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
40g
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
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Akko Penguin and KTT Purple Click both feature nylon in their bottom housings, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. However, the Penguin uses nylon for its top housing, while the Purple Click utilizes polycarbonate. The polycarbonate top housing of the Purple Click creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the duller sound produced by the nylon top housing of the Penguin. This difference in top housing material affects the overall sound and feel of the switches.
In terms of aesthetics, the choice of material for the top housing is crucial for switches featuring RGB lighting. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for displaying RGB lighting effects, giving the KTT Purple Click a more visually appealing look compared to the solid nylon top housing of the Akko Penguin. While both switches offer the benefits of nylon in their bottom housings, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing sets the Purple Click apart in terms of visual appeal and sound profile. The Penguin may offer a deeper and fuller sound when typing, but the Purple Click's crisper and higher-pitched sound, along with its RGB compatibility, make it a standout choice for those looking for a more unique experience.
In summary, the choice of housing material significantly impacts the sound and feel of mechanical switches. While both the Akko Penguin and KTT Purple Click share the use of nylon in their bottom housings, the difference in top housing material sets them apart. The nylon top housing of the Penguin provides a duller and rounder sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Purple Click offers a sharper and crisper sound, especially when combined with RGB lighting effects. Ultimately, the material composition of the housing plays a key role in shaping the overall typing experience and aesthetic appeal of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, it is evident that both switches have relatively similar actuation and bottom out forces. The Penguin has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Purple Click has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation force, with the Purple Click being slightly lighter in terms of bottom out force. The weight of a switch is essential as it can impact typing comfort and endurance. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Purple Click for longer typing sessions, while others may favor the slightly heavier forces of the Penguin for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, the Penguin has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Purple Click has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Purple Click the longer-traveling switch compared to the Penguin. A 4.0 mm travel distance is considered traditional, while 3.0 mm is shallower. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Penguin a suitable choice for them. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Purple Click with its longer travel distance.Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience desired.
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 Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
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 Akko Penguin tactile switch is known for its muted profile, which produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical switches. This makes it an excellent choice for office settings or shared spaces where noise reduction is important. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is described as having a crunchy and resonant sound, with a satisfying high-pitched click that can be likened to stepping on autumn leaves. Depending on your preference for sound, the Penguin offers a more subtle and neutral auditory experience, while the Purple Click provides a more engaging and lively typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Akko Penguin switch boasts a polished and feathery typing experience, offering smooth key travel and reduced friction for a sleek and comfortable typing sensation. With its mild and subtle characteristics, the switch provides a gentle resistance that is approachable to most users and ideal for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch is described as invigorating and stepped, offering pronounced feedback and a more reactive feel. The switch has a moderate to firm actuation force, providing a satisfying tactile experience with distinct stages in the keystroke.
Overall, if you prefer a quieter and more subdued typing experience, the Akko Penguin tactile switch would be the ideal choice with its muted sound profile and polished, feathery feel. However, if you enjoy a more engaging and clicky typing experience with pronounced feedback, the KTT Purple Click switch would be a great option with its crunchy sound and invigorating tactile feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so ultimately, the decision between the two would depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Akko Penguin tactile switch or the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, it all comes down to your specific preferences and needs. If you prioritize a quiet typing experience and a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, then the Akko Penguin switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a satisfying click with light keystrokes and pronounced tactility, then the KTT Purple Click switch could be the ideal choice. Both switches have their unique characteristics, so it ultimately depends on what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch. Consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard and your personal typing preferences to make the best decision for your needs.
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