Akko Penguin vs. Bsun Taichi

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between tactile and linear options can significantly influence your typing experience, and two noteworthy contenders in this arena are the Akko Penguin and the Bsun Taichi switches. The Akko Penguin, known for its silent tactile feedback, shines in office environments where noise minimization is crucial. With a rounded tactile bump and a medium weight, this switch provides satisfying feedback while ensuring a quiet typing experience, making it ideal for prolonged sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi offers an entirely different experience, focusing on smoothness with its long-pole stem and extended springs, delivering an enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound that many enthusiasts find irresistible. This linear switch is particularly appealing for those who prioritize speed and fluidity in their keystrokes. Each switch has its advantages depending on your typing style and environment; the Akko Penguin is perfect for those seeking a balance of tactile feedback and quiet operation, while the Bsun Taichi caters to users craving a seamless, noise-free experience. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Akko Penguin Tactile

Bsun Taichi Linear

$4.22

$3.10 per 10

$2.75

$2.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the Akko Penguin and the Bsun Taichi, the differences in their top housing materials highlight how material choice can significantly influence sound profiles in mechanical switches. The Penguin utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer texture absorbs vibrations more effectively than harder plastics, leading to a sound that is duller and more rounded. In contrast, the Taichi features a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and yields a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This difference indicates that users seeking a muted and warm acoustic experience would likely prefer the Penguin, while those looking for clarity and resonance might gravitate towards the Taichi.

The bottom housing materials for both switches present an interesting point of convergence. Both the Aquos Penguin and the Bsun Taichi utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a consistent sound experience across both models in that regard. The nylon composition contributes to a deep and full auditory experience, similar to that of the Penguin’s nylon top housing. Therefore, regardless of the top housing differences, the bottom housing maintains a uniform acoustic quality, ensuring that both switches deliver the warmer tones when pressing down on the keys. This commonality in material provides a level of consistency that will likely resonate with many users.

Ultimately, the choice between the Akko Penguin and the Bsun Taichi boils down to personal preference in sound profile from the top housing material. While the Penguin’s nylon top offers a softer and more subdued experience, the Taichi’s polycarbonate top provides a crisp and luminous sound ideal for vibrant RGB lighting effects. However, the similarity in nylon bottom housings ensures that both switches deliver a rounded sound when bottoming out. This shared characteristic suggests that, though they may sound and feel distinct during different actions, they still present a cohesive experience when considering the overall typist’s interaction with the switches.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, there are some noteworthy differences in their actuation forces, while the bottom out force for the Taichi remains unknown. The Penguin has a slightly higher actuation force of 43 grams, compared to the Taichi's 40 grams, making the Taichi the lighter option. This lighter force can be advantageous for users who prefer to type for extended periods, as it may reduce finger fatigue during long work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Penguin’s medium actuation force may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. However, since the bottom out force of the Taichi is unspecified, we cannot make a direct comparison in that aspect. Nevertheless, the Penguin's bottom out force is 60 grams, suggesting a firmer feel when reaching the end of the key travel, which could be desirable for users who enjoy the tactile feedback of bottoming out. Overall, the choice between these switches largely depends on individual preferences for typing feel and key pressure.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, the Penguin measures 3.3 mm, while the Taichi has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Penguin offers a shorter travel distance, which can be more appealing to gamers seeking faster response times. Conversely, the Taichi’s longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feel for users who prefer a deeper keystroke. Choosing between these two switches ultimately hinges on personal preference: if you favor quicker, more responsive feedback, the Penguin is the better choice due to its shorter travel distance; however, if you appreciate a more pronounced depth in your keystrokes, the Taichi may be the switch for you.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When considering the sound profile of the Akko Penguin tactile switch, it stands out for its muted and neutral qualities, making it an ideal option for quieter environments such as offices. The soft, subdued sound minimizes distractions while typing, allowing you to focus on your work or studies without annoying your colleagues or yourself. This characteristic can be particularly appealing as it adds a layer of professionalism to your typing setup. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi linear switch is noted for its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, which might cater more to those who enjoy audible feedback from their switches. The sound produced by the Taichi could add a lively element to your experience, though it may be less appropriate in shared spaces where noise is a consideration.

In terms of feel, the Akko Penguin switches provide a polished and mild typing experience, offering a smooth key travel that enhances comfort during long typing sessions. The tactile bump is subtle, making it approachable for both beginners and experienced users alike, while the feathery actuation helps to reduce finger fatigue immensely. This allows for extended periods of use without discomfort, making it a great choice for those who type a lot. On the other hand, the feel of the Bsun Taichi linear switch has not been specified, leaving it open for interpretation. Depending on the characteristics of the Taichi, it could potentially deliver a different experience that may be more suited for those who enjoy a linear key action with a distinct feel.

In summary, the Akko Penguin tactile switch excels in providing a quiet and refined typing experience, ideal for office environments and prolonged typing without fatigue. Its muted sound profile and polished feel make it a versatile choice for various users. Meanwhile, the Bsun Taichi linear switch offers a brighter sound signature but lacks detail on its tactile feel, which could appeal to those who prioritize auditory feedback. However, if a user is particularly sound-sensitive or involved in collaborative spaces, the Penguin would emerge as a more suitable option, while those interested in a more vibrant auditory experience might still consider trying the Taichi despite its undefined feel. The decision ultimately hinges on personal priorities regarding sound and typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, the choice between Akko Penguin tactile switches and Bsun Taichi linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the environment in which you plan to use them. If you're aiming for a silent, tactile typing experience—especially in an office or shared environment—then the Akko Penguin switches are an excellent choice. They offer a balanced feel with a rounded tactile bump that provides satisfying feedback without the distraction of noise, making them ideal for prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a switch that emphasizes smoothness and perhaps a more engaging typing experience, the Bsun Taichi linear switches could be the way to go, especially if you appreciate the characteristic smoothness provided by their long-pole design. However, given that the Taichi’s sound profile is not explicitly detailed, it may be worth considering how their sound might fit within your intended setting. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing habits and the environments in which you'll be using your keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Penguin Tactile

$4.22

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Taichi Linear

$2.75

$2.25 per 10

Learn more