Akko Penguin vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering tactile mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Akko Penguin and the Durock T1. The Akko Penguin is praised for its silent tactile design, making it a great choice for office settings where noise reduction is important. With a rounded tactile bump and medium weight, these switches offer a satisfying typing experience that is both responsive and comfortable for long periods of use. On the other hand, the Durock T1 is known for its super comfortable typing feel, featuring a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and advantages, catering 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Penguin and the Durock T1 both have unique characteristics that affect the sound profile of the switches they are used in. The Penguin's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the T1's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic composition, which leads to a clearer and more resonant sound. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the nylon top housing of the Penguin and the polycarbonate top housing of the T1 cater to different preferences in sound aesthetics.
On the other hand, both the Penguin and the T1 utilize nylon for their bottom housings, resulting in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches due to the absorption of sound by the softer nylon material. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switches remains consistent between the two, providing a familiar typing experience for users. However, the distinction between the nylon bottom housing of the Penguin and the polycarbonate top housing of the T1 still offers variation in sound profiles when typing on these switches.
In instances where the top and bottom housings of a switch are different, the characteristics of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch, impacting the sound profile during both key presses and key releases. The balance between the sound qualities of the bottom and top housings can affect the overall typing experience, with the softer nylon material creating a fuller sound profile when pressed and the stiffer polycarbonate material producing a clearer sound when the key is released. Understanding the influence of housing materials on sound profiles can help users tailor their switch choice to their preferred typing experience, whether they prioritize a deeper, fuller sound profile or a sharper, crisper sound.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in the typing experience. The Akko Penguin has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. On the other hand, the Durock T1 has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. The Penguin is lighter in comparison to the T1, which may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, while the T1 provides a heavier push feel for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, we can see that the Penguin has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the T1 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance provides a more satisfying keypress experience for some users. Both switches fall within the range of modern preferences for travel distance, with the T1 being on the longer side and the Penguin on the shorter side. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for keypress feel and responsiveness.
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 Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 switch provides a muted and neutral sound profile, leading to a quieter typing experience suitable for office environments. On the other hand, the Durock T1 switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound, reminiscent of rain falling on a window, creating a calming ambiance. Both switches cater to a moderate actuation force requirement, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for users of varying skill levels. Depending on the choice of keyboard and keycaps, users can achieve similar results in sound with either switch.
Moving on to feel, the Akko Penguin switch is described as polished, mild, feathery, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle resistance. These qualities result in reduced friction, smooth key travel, and minimal finger fatigue, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions. Conversely, the Durock T1 switch features a stepped, accented, and polished feel, providing a two-stage tactile sensation with medium tactility and a sleek typing experience. Users can expect a comfortable typing feel with both switches, allowing them to enjoy a satisfying feedback with each press.
In conclusion, the Akko Penguin and Durock T1 tactile switches offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Penguin switch prioritizes a muted sound profile and a polished, feathery feel for quiet office environments, the T1 switch provides a low-pitched sound and a stepped, accented feel for a more engaging typing experience. Whether users prioritize noise minimization or tactile feedback, both switches strike a balance between comfort and performance, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience for all.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prioritize a silent typing experience and medium weight, the Akko Penguin tactile switch would be a great option for you, especially in office environments where noise reduction is important. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force and find comfort in a medium bump with a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window, then the Durock T1 tactile switch might be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force to ensure that you have the best typing experience possible.
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