Akko Penguin vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Penguin and the Akko V3 Silver Pro offer distinct characteristics catering to different preferences and needs. The Akko Penguin is a silent tactile switch perfect for office environments, providing a satisfying feedback with each press while keeping noise to a minimum. Its medium weight strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro is tailored for gamers, offering effortless keystrokes and a pleasing bassy sound. With light actuation force and shortened travel distance, these switches excel in scenarios where speed is paramount. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to specific user preferences; 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
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the Akko Penguin and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, one noticeable difference lies in their top housing materials. The Penguin utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic absorbing more sound. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic composition. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the nylon top housing of the Penguin provides a rounder sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Silver Pro produces a clearer and resonant sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials of the Akko Penguin and the Akko V3 Silver Pro, they share a commonality by both utilizing nylon. This classic switch housing material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its relatively softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches create a duller and rounder sound profile due to the nylon bottom housing. Despite differences in their top housing materials, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches provides a consistent acoustic experience in terms of sound profile.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches, whether nylon or polycarbonate, plays a significant role in the sound profile they produce. The Akko Penguin's nylon housing delivers a softer and more absorbent sound, ideal for those seeking a deeper and fuller typing experience. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro's polycarbonate housing offers a sharper and clearer sound, perfect for users looking for a crisper and more resonant typing feel. While both switches have different top housing materials, their shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a similar sound profile in terms of depth and fullness, showcasing how housing materials can impact the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Penguin tactile switch to the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Silver Pro is lighter in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Penguin has a slightly higher actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a more medium-weight option. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro boasts a lower actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, creating a lighter typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the V3 Silver Pro, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may lean towards the Penguin. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same level of key travel. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches ensures that users will get a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch they choose. This feature makes it easier for users to switch between different keyboards equipped with either switch without having to adjust to a different key feel. With both switches offering the same travel distance, users can expect a uniform typing experience across different devices.
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 Akko V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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 is known for producing a muted and neutral sound profile, making it an excellent choice for quiet office environments. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is praised for its high-pitched sound, which can be sharp and crisp when pressed. This difference in sound profile makes the Penguin switches a better option for those who prefer a quieter typing experience, while the V3 Silver Pro switches cater more to gamers who enjoy a more distinct auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the Akko Penguin tactile switch offers a polished, mild, feathery, and subtle typing experience. This means that users can expect a smooth and refined key travel with minimal resistance, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch provides an easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, polished, and silky typing experience. This indicates that users can enjoy a buttery smooth key press with minimal exertion, enhancing the overall typing experience for gamers seeking responsiveness and comfort.
In conclusion, the Akko Penguin and V3 Silver Pro switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Penguin switches are ideal for those who prioritize a quiet and gentle typing experience, making them suitable for office environments and prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro switches are tailored for gamers who prefer a more responsive and effortless keystroke with a distinct high-pitched sound. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences, with both options offering unique benefits for different typing and gaming scenarios.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, consider your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a quiet typing experience for office environments and prefer a medium actuation force with a rounded tactile bump, the Akko Penguin switches would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for switches engineered for speed and precision, with a light actuation force and pleasing bassy sound, then the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches are the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on factors such as noise level, typing style, and intended use, so choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and requirements.
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