Akko Penguin vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Penguin and the KTT Purple Star offer unique experiences for users to consider. The Akko Penguin is a tactile switch that stands out for its silent operation, making it an ideal choice for office environments where noise reduction is crucial. With a rounded tactile bump providing satisfying feedback without the clatter, it strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort, perfect for long typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star is a linear switch known for its buttery smooth typing experience thanks to its all-POM construction. With a very light 45g bottom-out, it caters to light typists seeking ease and comfort in their keystrokes. While the Penguin offers a more muted and balanced feel, the Purple Star provides a low-pitched and easy-to-press sensation. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Penguin and the KTT Purple Star keyboards both offer unique sound profiles due to their different compositions. The Penguin's nylon top housing is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Purple Star's POM top housing creates a more muted and deep sound. While both materials provide a deeper sound profile, the nylon top housing of the Penguin may offer a slightly rounder sound compared to the more pleasing and unique sound of the POM top housing of the Purple Star.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Penguin and Purple Star keyboards continue to showcase their distinct sound profiles based on their materials. The Penguin's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing, similar to its top housing. On the other hand, the Purple Star's POM bottom housing also adds to the unique and pleasing sound profile of the keyboard, which leans towards a more muted tone. Despite the differences in material, both bottom housings play a crucial role in the overall sound experience of each keyboard, with the nylon creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the deeper and muted sound produced by the POM material.
Overall, while the Akko Penguin and KTT Purple Star keyboards may use different housing materials for their top and bottom components, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The nylon housing of the Penguin focuses on creating a deeper and fuller sound, while the POM housing of the Purple Star leans towards a more muted and pleasing tone. Regardless of the differences in material, both keyboards excel in providing a satisfying typing experience with their distinct sound profiles that are influenced by their top and bottom housing choices.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, it is clear that the Penguin requires a slightly heavier force to bottom out at 60 grams compared to the Purple Star's lighter 50 grams. However, both switches share the same actuation force of 43 grams, resulting in a similar initial keystroke sensation. The Penguin switch offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, making it suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Purple Star's lighter bottom out force may appeal to users looking for a more effortless typing experience, ideal for long typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences for key feel and typing style.
Travel distance
The Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5mm. Both switches fall within the shorter range of travel distances, making them popular choices among gamers looking for faster response times. However, the Penguin offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those seeking a more responsive feel. On the other hand, the Purple Star's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth to the keystrokes for some users. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired 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 Purple Star comes in at $4.88 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
In terms of sound, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is known for its muted and neutral sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience that is suitable for office environments where noise reduction is important. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch is described as having a low-pitched sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow in tone. Both switches offer different sound characteristics, with the Penguin being more suited for a quiet working environment while the Purple Star provides a unique low-pitched sound signature.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is polished, mild, feathery, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Purple Star linear switch, on the other hand, is described as mild and easy-to-press, providing a gentle typing experience with minimal force required for key presses. Both switches offer a comfortable typing feel, with the Penguin focusing on a polished and feathery sensation, while the Purple Star emphasizes ease of key press and comfort.
Overall, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is best suited for those who prioritize a quiet typing experience in an office setting, with its muted sound and light actuation force providing a balanced and comfortable typing feel. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch is ideal for light typists seeking a smooth and easy-to-press typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find a switch that aligns with their typing style and environment. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, consider the environment and your typing preferences. If you value a quieter typing experience and are looking for a switch that strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, the Akko Penguin with its medium weight and rounded tactile bump is a great choice, especially for office environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with a light bottom-out force and minimal sound, the KTT Purple Star made of POM construction is the way to go, particularly for light typists. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize noise minimization, feedback, actuation force, or typing comfort in order to enhance your overall typing experience.
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