Akko Penguin vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Akko Penguin, a tactile switch, and the Jerrzi Salt Ice, a linear switch. The Akko Penguin is renowned for its silent tactile feedback, making it perfect for office environments where noise reduction is essential. With a rounded tactile bump that provides satisfying feedback without being loud, these switches are also great for prolonged typing sessions thanks to their medium weight that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches are known for their bright and clacky characteristics, offering an energetic and responsive typing experience with a light touch. While both switches have their strengths, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of noise level and typing 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko Penguin and Jerrzi Salt Ice, we can see a significant difference in the sound profiles they produce. The Penguin's nylon top and bottom housings create a duller and rounder sound due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Salt Ice's polycarbonate top and bottom housings result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a clearer and resonant sound. The choice of housing material greatly impacts the overall sound experience of these switches.
While the Akko Penguin and Jerrzi Salt Ice both utilize different housing materials for their tops and bottoms, the overall effect on the sound produced is similar. The use of nylon in the Penguin and polycarbonate in the Salt Ice results in unique sound profiles that complement each other. The softer nature of nylon in the Penguin's housing creates a deeper and fuller sound when typing, while the stiffer polycarbonate in the Salt Ice produces a more defined and crisp sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience based on their respective housing materials.
In terms of aesthetics, the choice of housing material also plays a significant role. The translucent nature of polycarbonate in the Salt Ice allows for RGB lighting to shine through, creating a visually appealing effect. On the other hand, the solid nylon housing of the Penguin may not offer the same visual appeal but still provides a deep and full sound experience. Whether it be for sound quality or visual aesthetics, the housing materials of the Akko Penguin and Jerrzi Salt Ice cater to different preferences and priorities in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Akko Penguin tactile switch and Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch have some differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Penguin has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Salt Ice's 45 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Penguin requires 60 grams while the Salt Ice's force is unknown. Despite the slight difference in actuation force, both switches offer a similar typing experience due to their comparable weight. Some users may prefer the Penguin for its lighter actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the Salt Ice for a stronger push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, the Penguin has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Salt Ice has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the category of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers for their faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be significantly noticeable to most users, as both are still considered relatively short. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference and whether a slightly shorter or longer travel distance is preferred for a more satisfying 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 Jerrzi Salt Ice has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Salt Ice for $2.30.
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 offers a more muted typing experience, perfect for environments where noise reduction is important. The sound produced is softer and quieter compared to other switches, making it a great choice for office settings. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has no specific sound description given, so it's likely to produce a regular or clacky sound typical of mechanical switches. Both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Penguin being more neutral in its sound profile, while the Salt Ice may offer a more traditional mechanical keyboard sound.
In terms of feel, the Akko Penguin switch is polished and mild, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. The switch's tactile bump provides a gentle typing feel that is approachable to most users, keeping fatigue at bay even during extended typing sessions. Meanwhile, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch lacks a specific feel description, but its light touch and vibrant feedback suggest a responsive and energetic typing experience. Both switches offer their own unique advantages, with the Penguin focusing on smoothness and comfort, while the Salt Ice emphasizes quick and effortless actuation.
Considering the subjective qualities described, the Akko Penguin tactile switch would be a great choice for users looking for a quiet and comfortable typing experience, especially in office settings. The Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, on the other hand, caters to those seeking a lively and responsive typing feel with its bright feedback and light touch. Both switches have their own strengths and can cater to different preferences, so choosing between them would depend on whether a user prioritizes a quiet and polished typing experience or a more energetic and responsive one. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and a satisfying typing experience, albeit with slightly different characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that offers a balanced tactile experience with quiet operation, the Akko Penguin tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. The medium bottom out force and rounded tactile bump make it suitable for office environments and prolonged typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with bright and clacky characteristics that provide an energetic and responsive typing experience, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for sound, feel, and intended use of the keyboard. Experimenting with both switches may help you determine which one aligns best with your typing style and environment.
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