Akko Penguin vs. Akko Rosewood

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between tactile and linear options can significantly impact your typing experience, and Akko's Penguin and Rosewood switches exemplify this distinction beautifully. The Akko Penguin switches are designed as silent tactile switches, making them an excellent choice for office environments where minimizing noise is essential. With their rounded tactile bump and medium weight, they offer a pleasing feedback with each keystroke while also ensuring comfort during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood switches deliver a different experience, producing a deep, satisfying "thock" sound that many enthusiasts crave, thanks in part to a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant. The linear nature of the Rosewood switches provides a smoother, uninterrupted keypress, making them ideal for gamers or those who prioritize speed over feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the Akko Penguin and Rosewood switches hinges on personal preference—whether you desire a tactile sensation for typing or a smooth, audible experience for both gaming and casual use. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Akko Penguin Tactile

Akko Rosewood Linear

$4.22

$3.10 per 10

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Penguin and the Akko Rosewood, it is evident that they share a significant similarity in their construction. Both models utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, a material renowned for its ability to enhance auditory characteristics during typing. This shared material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softer structure allows for more sound absorption. Consequently, both switches produce a rounder and duller sound compared to those made with harder plastics, making the typing experience more pleasant for users who prioritize auditory feedback.

Despite the similarities in the materials used for the Akko Penguin and the Akko Rosewood, the impact of these materials can vary based on other factors such as design and tuning. The nylon both in the top and bottom housings remains consistent, yet individual characteristics like the overall switch design might influence how the sound quality manifests in real-world typing scenarios. The specifics of the switch's actuation and release can impart different sensations when pressing or releasing the keys, although the fundamental sound profile remains unchanged due to the uniform use of nylon.

In conclusion, while both the Akko Penguin and Akko Rosewood utilize nylon for their switch housings, leading to a similar auditory and tactile experience, the nuances of their respective designs may introduce slight variations in feel and sound upon actuation and release. Users can expect a comparable depth and fullness in sound, reflecting the properties inherent to nylon, but should remain aware that the overall experience may be affected by additional design elements within the switches. Therefore, both keyboards would likely satisfy those looking for soft, sound-absorbing materials in their typing experience, while potentially offering distinct personalities through their design.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Penguin switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as medium in weight. In contrast, the Rosewood switch features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Rosewood switch the lighter option overall, which may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for prolonged use in work or gaming settings. Meanwhile, the Penguin's heavier actuation force provides a more substantial feel for those who enjoy a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, while both switches offer distinct tactile experiences, the Penguin is better suited for users who favor a medium actuation force, while the Rosewood caters to those who appreciate lighter weights.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Akko Penguin tactile switch is 3.3 mm, while the Akko Rosewood linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Penguin switch offers a shorter travel distance compared to the Rosewood switch, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times. The shorter travel distance of the Penguin can lead to a more responsive typing experience, ideal for those who favor quick actions. On the other hand, the Rosewood, with its longer travel distance, provides a more substantial feel that some users may find more satisfying and less abrupt. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference: for quicker response times, the Penguin is the better option, whereas those who appreciate a deeper feel would likely prefer the Rosewood.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is characterized by its muted and neutral profile. Its design minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making it ideal for environments where quiet operation is a priority, such as offices or shared workspaces. The sound produced by the Penguin is softer and less disruptive, allowing for comfortable typing without disturbing others nearby. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood linear switch delivers a distinctly deeper and more satisfying thocky sound, enhanced by a factory-applied layer of lubricant that amplifies its acoustic qualities. This combination results in a more pronounced auditory experience, which may appeal to those seeking a more resonate feedback while typing.

Regarding feel, the Akko Penguin switch offers a polished and mild typing experience characterized by a rounded tactile bump that provides pleasing feedback without harshness. It balances smoothness with responsiveness, making it accessible for both beginners and seasoned typists. The feathery and subtle qualities inherent in this switch contribute to a gentle resistance that is ideal for long typing sessions, reducing finger fatigue. On the other hand, the feel of the Akko Rosewood linear switch remains unmentioned in the provided information, leaving its tactile and responsive characteristics open to interpretation.

In conclusion, both the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch bring unique attributes to the table. The Penguin excels in creating a quiet and comfortable typing environment, making it well-suited for shared spaces, while the Rosewood offers a more acoustic experience with its thocky sound. Though they cater to different preferences—sound and typing experience—users can expect a well-rounded performance from either switch. Ultimately, the choice depends on your individual priorities; if minimizing sound is crucial, the Penguin is the way to go, while the Rosewood might be preferred for those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic and sensory feedback.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing between the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you’re looking for a switch that excels in quiet environments, such as offices or shared workspaces, the Penguin is an excellent choice due to its muted sound profile, rounded tactile bump, and medium actuation force. This combination allows for a satisfying typing experience without overwhelming noise, making it ideal for those who do a lot of typing or document work. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation and enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback with a thocky sound, the Rosewood switch would be more suited to your tastes. With its light 50-gram force and factory-applied lubricant, it provides a smoother, more enjoyable typing sensation, perfect for both casual typing and gaming. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your work environment and whether you prioritize sound dampening and tactile feedback or a lighter touch and richer auditory experience.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Penguin Tactile

$4.22

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more