Akko Penguin vs. KTT Semi Mute

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Penguin and KTT Semi Mute stand out as excellent options for different preferences. The Akko Penguin is a tactile switch perfect for office environments where noise reduction is essential. With a rounded tactile bump providing satisfying feedback and medium weight for a balance between responsiveness and comfort, the Penguin switch is ideal for prolonged typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute is a linear switch designed for a completely silent operation, catering to those who value a noise-free environment, especially during late-night typing sessions. With advanced dampening technology and a buttery, mild feel, the Semi Mute switch offers a comfortable typing experience. Both switches have their unique qualities that make them appealing, but diving deeper into their specifics will help you determine the best choice for your needs.

By the numbers

Akko Penguin Tactile

KTT Semi Mute Linear

$4.22

$3.10 per 10

$3.97

$3.55 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Akko Penguin and the KTT Semi Mute, it is evident that they both utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Penguin features a nylon top and bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic and sound-absorbing properties. On the other hand, the Semi Mute incorporates a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. While both materials have their unique sound characteristics, the decision between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound preference and typing experience.

Despite their differences, both the Akko Penguin and the KTT Semi Mute housing materials serve to enhance the overall typing experience. The nylon housing of the Penguin offers a duller and rounder sound, while the polycarbonate housing of the Semi Mute provides a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Semi Mute's housing allows for RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic element to the switch. Whether you prefer a softer, deeper sound or a sharper, crisper sound, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to individual typing preferences.

In considering the impact of housing materials on the overall sound and feel of a switch, it is important to recognize how the top and bottom housing materials contribute to the typing experience. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. By utilizing different materials for the top and bottom housings, the Akko Penguin and KTT Semi Mute are able to provide a balanced typing experience with a range of sound profiles to cater to varying preferences. Ultimately, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing materials allows users to customize their typing experience based on their desired sound and feel.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, both switches have the same actuation force of 43 grams. However, the Akko Penguin has a higher bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the KTT Semi Mute's 58 grams. This means that the Akko Penguin requires a slightly heavier force to fully press the key compared to the KTT Semi Mute. In terms of weight, the Akko Penguin would be considered the heavier option when it comes to bottoming out, while the KTT Semi Mute would be the lighter option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference - whether one prefers a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or a heavier feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer similar actuation forces, so users can expect similar results in terms of trigger sensitivity.

Travel distance

The Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the KTT Semi Mute linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means that the KTT Semi Mute linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Akko Penguin tactile switch. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred for faster response times, making the Akko Penguin switch a better choice for gamers. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switch may be more suitable for those who prefer a deeper pressing experience. Both switches offer different levels of tactility and response, so the choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preference.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, both the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch are described as producing a muted and neutral sound profile. This means that they generate softer and quieter noises compared to regular mechanical keyboard switches, making them suitable for environments where noise reduction is important, such as in office settings or late-night typing sessions. The choice of board and keycaps can also influence the overall sound of the switches, so it's essential to consider these factors when selecting your setup.

When it comes to feel, the Akko Penguin switch is described as offering a polished, mild, feathery, and subtle typing experience. This means that the switch has a smooth and refined finish, provides a gentle typing sensation, requires minimal exertion from your fingers, and offers a gentle resistance during key presses. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switch is characterized as providing a buttery and mild typing feel, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a gentle overall sensation. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and gratifying typing experience for users, whether they prefer a more pronounced tactile bump or a smoother linear action.

Overall, both the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch offer comparable qualities in terms of sound and feel, with subtle differences in their tactile feedback and linear operation. Whether you choose the Penguin for its rounded tactile bump and medium weight or the Semi Mute for its linear actuation and advanced dampening technology, you can expect a satisfying and noise-free typing experience with either switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing style.

Conclusion

To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko Penguin tactile switch or the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, it ultimately boils down to your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a quiet typing experience for office or shared environments, the Akko Penguin with its silent tactile feedback and medium weight may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a noise-free environment and prefer a smooth and fluid typing sensation, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch might be more suitable. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider which features align best with your typing style and environment. Ultimately, the decision rests on what feels most comfortable and satisfying for you.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Penguin Tactile

$4.22

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

KTT Semi Mute Linear

$3.97

$3.55 per 10

Learn more