Akko Penguin vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options are the Akko Penguin and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon. The Akko Penguin is a tactile switch, perfect for those seeking a quieter typing experience, making it an ideal choice for office settings where noise reduction is essential. With a rounded tactile bump providing satisfying feedback without the loud clacks, this switch offers a balance between responsiveness and comfort, making it great for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon is a linear switch that offers a buttery smooth typing experience thanks to its progressive spring and dry-lube design. While the Penguin is polished, muted, and feathery, the Sea Salt Lemon is low-pitched and neutral. Each switch offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko Penguin and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon, it is evident that they both use nylon for their bottom housing. This means that both switches will have a similar sound profile characterized by a deeper and fuller tone due to the softer nature of the nylon material. The absorption of sound by the nylon housing creates a duller and rounder sound when typing, providing a satisfying acoustic experience for users of both switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in their top housing materials. The Penguin utilizes a nylon top housing, while the Sea Salt Lemon features a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate material in the Sea Salt Lemon creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Penguin's nylon top housing. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic element to the switch that the Penguin lacks.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the bottom housing material plays a significant role. With both switches utilizing nylon for their bottom housing, users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on the keys. However, the top housing material will influence the sound when releasing a key, with the polycarbonate top housing of the Sea Salt Lemon providing a clearer and more resonant sound compared to the duller and rounder sound produced by the nylon top housing of the Akko Penguin.
Weight
The Akko Penguin tactile switch has a lighter actuation force and a heavier bottom out force compared to the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch. The Penguin requires 43 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 60 grams to bottom out, while the Sea Salt Lemon needs 45 grams to actuate and 53 grams to bottom out. Both switches fall under the medium category, but the Sea Salt Lemon is slightly lighter in terms of bottom out force. Choosing between the two would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Sea Salt Lemon, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may opt for the Penguin. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience each switch offers.
Travel distance
When comparing the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, it is clear that the Penguin has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Sea Salt Lemon's 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Penguin may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Sea Salt Lemon may provide a more satisfying depth when typing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing experience desired. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their respective travel distances, with the Penguin offering a shorter and quicker press, and the Sea Salt Lemon providing a slightly more pronounced and deliberate keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual user's preferences and typing style.
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 Sea Salt Lemon comes in at $2.80 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 sound profile, making it a great choice for office environments where noise reduction is essential. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch offers a low-pitched sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to other switches. Both switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for various settings and user preferences. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is praised for its polished and refined typing experience, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel. It is also described as feathery and subtle, providing a light and comfortable typing feel ideal for extended use. In contrast, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch is characterized as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Akko Penguin leaning towards a smoother feel and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon offering a more gentle touch.
In conclusion, the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Penguin excels in providing a quiet and polished typing experience with a rounded tactile bump, the Sea Salt Lemon stands out for its buttery smooth typing feel and low-pitched sound. Both switches cater to different preferences and environments, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their needs. Whether you choose the Akko Penguin or the KTT Sea Salt Lemon, you can expect a satisfying typing experience tailored to your personal liking.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, consider your environment and typing preferences. Opt for the Akko Penguin if you value a silent typing experience with a satisfying tactile bump, making it ideal for office settings where noise reduction is important. Additionally, the medium weight of the Penguin provides a balance between responsiveness and comfort for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, go for the KTT Sea Salt Lemon if you prefer a buttery smooth linear switch with a lighter bottom out force, perfect for a more gentle typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize quietness and tactility or smoothness and lightness in your mechanical keyboard.
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