Akko Penguin vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Penguin and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g offer distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Akko Penguin switches are celebrated for their silent tactile feedback, featuring a rounded tactile bump that provides satisfying resistance with each key press while ensuring a muted performance—ideal for office settings where noise reduction is crucial. These medium-weight switches strike a perfect balance between comfort and responsiveness, making them suitable for extended typing sessions without leading to fatigue. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches deliver an ultra-light, linear experience designed for those who prefer a smooth keystroke absent of tactile bumps. The gentle actuation mimics the delicate sound of raindrops, appealing to lightweight typists seeking an incredibly tranquil typing environment. Both switches cater to specific needs, with the Penguins emphasizing tactile feedback and noise control, while the Silent Sakura prioritizes a soft and serene 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
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Penguin and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, a notable similarity arises in their choice of top housing. Both models utilize nylon for this component, a material recognized for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing. The nylon's softer characteristics allow it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. This shared quality in top housing suggests that users of both switches can expect a rich sound when pressing the keys, as the deeper tones and muted acoustics contribute to a more cohesive typing experience.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials diverge significantly, with the Akko Penguin opting for nylon while the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g features polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing of the Penguin complements its overall sound profile by offering similar absorbing qualities, which further promotes a rounded auditory experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Sakura - 43g produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound due to the material's rigidity and clarity. This contrast in bottom housing materials means that the overall sound and feel when bottoming out a key will differ significantly between the two switches, with the Silent Sakura likely delivering a crisper and more resonant response compared to the softer impact of the Penguin.
Ultimately, the differences in bottom housing materials underscore the unique acoustic characteristics that each switch can bring to the typing experience. While the top housing similarities create a consistent warmth in sound across both switches, the variation in the bottom housings creates distinct outcomes in typing feedback. Users who prioritize a muted and rounded sound profile may gravitate toward the Akko Penguin, whereas those looking for a clear and vibrant auditory sensation might prefer the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g. Thus, while both switches share aspects of their top housing construction, their distinct bottom housings ultimately lead to varied tactile experiences when typing.
Weight
The Akko Penguin tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch present distinct characteristics in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Penguin features an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, positioning it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Silent Sakura boasts a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it a lighter option overall. This means that for prolonged typing sessions or gaming marathons, the Silent Sakura may be more comfortable for users who prefer less resistance. On the other hand, the Penguin, with its heavier bottom out force, provides a more substantial typing experience for those who favor a firmer push feel. Consequently, while both switches have different characteristics, users looking for a softer experience should opt for the Silent Sakura, whereas those seeking a more pronounced tactile feedback might choose the Akko Penguin.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The Akko Penguin features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the HMX Silent Sakura has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means that users of the Penguin switch will experience a shorter keystroke, ideal for those who prefer faster response times, such as gamers. Conversely, the longer travel distance of the Silent Sakura may appeal to users who appreciate a more substantial keystroke, providing a deeper and more satisfying feel when typing. Thus, if you opt for the Akko Penguin, you will enjoy a quicker actuation, whereas the HMX Silent Sakura will offer a more traditional and hearty typing experience due to its increased travel distance.
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 HMX Silent Sakura - 43g comes in at $3.50 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
When comparing the sound of the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, the Penguin is designed to produce a muted and neutral sound profile. This makes it an excellent option for environments where excessive noise could be disruptive, such as in offices. The gentle feedback from the tactile bump contributes to a quieter typing experience compared to more traditional mechanical switches. In contrast, while the Silent Sakura is focused on providing a whisper-quiet typing experience akin to gentle raindrops, specific details about its sound characteristics have not been provided. Both switches prioritize noise minimization, ensuring a peaceful typing atmosphere in shared spaces.
In terms of feel, the Akko Penguin offers a polished experience with a mild tactile bump, which balances responsiveness and ease of use. Users can expect a smooth typing journey with reduced friction, allowing for prolonged typing sessions without discomfort. The Penguin’s characteristics also lean toward a feathery and subtle touch, resulting in a typing experience that feels light yet has enough feedback to maintain confidence with each keystroke. The Silent Sakura - 43g, on the other hand, is crafted for a light actuation force, making it ideal for those who prefer less resistance while typing. However, further details about its tactile feedback or specific feel descriptors are unknown. As such, while both switches cater to a comfortable and efficient typing experience, the nuances in their tactile feedback require a more personal exploration.
In summary, both the Akko Penguin and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches emphasize a quiet mechanical typing experience, making them suitable for environments sensitive to noise. The Penguin excels with its tactile feedback and polished feel, making it ideal for tactile enthusiasts, while the Silent Sakura is aimed at those who enjoy exceptionally light and quiet linear feedback. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will come down to personal preference in tactile feedback and actuation force, but both options offer a serene typing experience for anyone looking to minimize noise while typing.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and the environment in which you intend to use your keyboard. If you find yourself in an office setting or a shared workspace where noise levels must be kept to a minimum, the Penguin switches may be the perfect fit for you. Their medium actuation force of 60 grams provides a satisfying tactile feedback without being disruptive, making them ideal for lengthy typing sessions while ensuring you don’t experience fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch that allows for a more feather-like feel during typing, especially if your focus is on a quiet, serene workspace, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches would suit your needs better. With their light 43-gram actuation force, they cater well to light typists who enjoy a gentle typing experience reminiscent of soft raindrops. Thus, consider your typing style, the environment you'll be in, and how much feedback you want from your keys, as these factors will guide you in selecting the switch that enhances your overall typing experience.
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