Akko Penguin vs. Dareu Snow

Overview

When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the Akko Penguin and the Dareu Snow. The Akko Penguin is a tactile switch that boasts a silent operation, making it a great choice for office settings where noise reduction is a priority. With a rounded tactile bump that offers satisfying feedback with each key press, these medium-weight switches strike a balance between responsiveness and comfort, perfect for long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow is a linear switch that utilizes innovative POK material for the top housing and stem, resulting in a unique typing experience with a deeper sound profile. While both switches have their own strengths, such as the Penguin's quiet operation and the Snow's smooth linear feel, it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing the best switch for your needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Akko Penguin Tactile

Dareu Snow Linear

$4.22

$3.10 per 10

$7.78

$5.76 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Akko Penguin and Dareu Snow switches both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The nylon top housing of the Penguin provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller, rounder sound. In contrast, the POK top housing of the Snow boasts exceptional durability and smoothness, with wear resistance surpassing that of nylon by 14 times, and shock resistance exceeding nylon by 2.3 times. While both materials have their strengths, the POK material of the Snow offers a different set of advantages compared to the nylon of the Penguin.

Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both switches feature nylon bottom housings that contribute to the deep and full sound profile characteristic of nylon. With a softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound, the nylon bottom housing of both the Penguin and Snow switches helps create a similar typing experience in terms of sound. However, while the top housing material may have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. In this aspect, the similarities between the bottom housings of the Penguin and Snow switches may result in comparable typing experiences in terms of sound quality.

Overall, the choice between the Akko Penguin and Dareu Snow switches may come down to personal preference and the specific qualities each user prioritizes in a switch. The Penguin's nylon housing offers a classic typing experience with a deep and full sound profile, while the Snow's POK housing provides exceptional durability and smoothness, making for a clacky and long-lasting switch. Whether one prioritizes sound profile, durability, or smoothness, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in typing experiences. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on the individual's preferences and typing needs.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, we can see that both switches have a bottom out force of 60 grams, making them relatively equal in that aspect. However, the Akko Penguin has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Dareu Snow's 50 grams, making the Penguin switch more lightweight in terms of triggering a keystroke. This difference in actuation force may result in a slightly faster response time when typing on the Akko Penguin switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for a lighter or heavier touch when typing or gaming.

Travel distance

The travel distances of the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch are both 3.3 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, they both provide a consistent travel distance experience of 3.3 mm, ensuring a similar feel and performance when typing or gaming. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile or linear response with a travel distance that allows for comfortable and efficient typing or gaming sessions. In conclusion, the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch both offer a travel distance of 3.3 mm, providing users with a similar experience in terms of key travel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Akko Penguin tactile switch offers a muted and neutral sound profile, making it a suitable choice for those looking for a quieter typing experience, especially in office settings. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch produces a thocky, low-pitched sound that is deep and rich, giving a satisfying auditory feedback while typing. Depending on personal preference and the environment in which the keyboard will be used, users may lean towards the quieter sound of the Penguin or the more pronounced sound of the Snow.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Akko Penguin provides a polished, mild, feathery, and subtle typing experience. These qualities translate to a smooth and refined typing feel with reduced friction, gentle key travel, and a light actuation force, suitable for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. In contrast, the Dareu Snow switch offers a bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback and lively feel to the keys when pressed. Depending on whether a user prefers a more delicate typing experience or a more responsive and bouncy feel, the choice between the two switches may vary.

Overall, the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Penguin excels in providing a quieter typing experience with a rounded tactile bump, making it ideal for office environments, while maintaining a medium weight for responsive and comfortable typing. On the other hand, the Snow switch stands out with its thocky sound and bouncy feel, thanks to the innovative use of POK material for a unique typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and the intended use of the mechanical keyboard.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, consider your environment and preferences. If you value a quiet typing experience in an office setting, the Akko Penguin is the way to go with its silent tactile feedback and medium weight. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother linear switch with a deeper sound profile, the Dareu Snow is a great choice thanks to its innovative use of POK material. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize noise minimization and tactile feedback (Penguin) or smoothness and sound signature (Snow). Happy typing!

Mentioned in this article

Akko Penguin Tactile

$4.22

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Dareu Snow Linear

$7.78

$5.76 per 10

Learn more