Akko Penguin vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko Penguin and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura mechanical keyboard switches, both being tactile switches, we see some distinct differences in their features. The Akko Penguin is perfect for office environments due to its silent tactile nature, making it ideal for minimizing noise. With a rounded tactile bump and medium weight, these switches offer a satisfying feedback without causing fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura boasts a snappy response and a decadently buttery downstroke, creating a unique typing experience. The tactility of the Purple Sakura switches is pronounced yet not overpowering, resulting in a mild and neutral sound signature. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Penguin and Sarokeys Purple Sakura offer distinct characteristics that result in different sound profiles. The Penguin's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound profile. In contrast, the Purple Sakura's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound because of its relatively stiffer plastic material. This difference in top housing materials contributes to the overall typing experience and sound produced by the switches.
On the other hand, both the Penguin and Purple Sakura switches feature nylon bottom housings, which offer similar qualities such as a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer plastic material of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Despite the difference in top housing materials, the similar bottom housing materials in these switches result in a consistent sound profile when typing and provide a certain level of uniformity in the overall typing experience for both keyboards.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Akko Penguin and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of these mechanical keyboards. The contrasting characteristics of nylon and polycarbonate top housings in these switches showcase how different materials can impact the sound produced when typing. While the bottom housings of both switches share similar qualities due to being made of nylon, the top housings offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in terms of typing experience and sound feedback.
Weight
The Akko Penguin tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 50 grams. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that while the Penguin requires less force to trigger a keystroke, both switches will feel equally substantial when fully pressed down. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Akko Penguin for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may appreciate the slightly heavier push feel of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
The Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, slightly longer than the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch which has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. While the travel distance difference between the two switches is minimal, it may still affect the typing experience for some users. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prefer faster response times, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance length and typing 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 Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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, both the Akko Penguin and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches have a neutral profile, making them suitable for various environments without being too loud or too quiet. The Penguin switch provides a muted sound, perfect for office settings where noise reduction is important, while the Purple Sakura switch offers a mild and neutral sound signature, ensuring a pleasant typing experience without being disruptive. Keep in mind that sound can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Regarding feel, the Akko Penguin switch offers a polished and mild typing experience, with a feathery and subtle resistance that is comfortable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch is described as buttery and mild, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke with a snappy response for a more lively typing experience. Both switches offer a balance between tactile feedback and ease of use, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users.
In conclusion, both the Akko Penguin and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches have their unique qualities that make them suitable for different preferences and needs. While the Penguin switch focuses on a quieter typing experience with rounded tactile feedback, the Purple Sakura switch emphasizes a buttery downstroke with a snappy response. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, but rest assured that both options offer a pleasant and satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider the environment and your typing preferences. If you value a quiet typing experience and need a switch suitable for office settings, the Akko Penguin with its muted sound and polished feel might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery and snappy tactile response for a more engaging typing experience, especially for gaming or casual use, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura could be the ideal option. Ultimately, both switches offer their unique characteristics, so choose based on what aligns best with your typing needs and preferences.
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