Akko Penguin vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko Penguin and the Haimu Viola Tricolor mechanical keyboard switches, both being tactile switches, one can see distinct differences in their characteristics. The Penguin switches from Akko are ideal for office environments due to their silent nature, making them perfect for noise-sensitive spaces. With a rounded tactile bump, these switches offer a satisfying feedback while maintaining a quiet profile. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switches are known for their thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding a unique touch to the typing experience. They provide a pronounced tactility without being overly tactile, striking a perfect balance for users. While the Penguin offers a more muted and subtle typing experience, the Viola Tricolor provides an invigorating and low-pitched sensation. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Penguin and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches both use nylon for the top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the plastic. However, the Viola Tricolor's top housing features polycarbonate, giving it a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile in comparison to the Penguin. This difference in housing materials affects the overall sound and typing experience of each switch, with the Penguin offering a duller and rounder sound while the Viola Tricolor provides a clearer and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Viola Tricolor's top housing allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making it aesthetically appealing for users who prioritize customization.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Akko Penguin and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches utilize nylon material. This shared housing material results in a similar typing experience for both switches, with a deeper and fuller sound profile created by the softer plastic absorbing more sound. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, impacting the overall typing experience. Despite the differences in their top housing materials, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that users can expect comparable characteristics in terms of sound and feel when using these switches.
In considering the impact of housing materials on a switch, it is essential to recognize how the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel, emphasizing the importance of the type of material used in this component. Conversely, the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound produced when releasing a key, affecting the overall typing experience. By understanding the role of housing materials in switches, users can better appreciate the nuanced differences between the Akko Penguin and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, whether it be in sound profile, feel, or aesthetics.
Weight
The Akko Penguin tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Haimu Viola Tricolor's unknown actuation force. However, the Viola Tricolor has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams compared to the Penguin's 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium to medium-heavy range of actuation and bottom out forces. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Akko Penguin may be the better option, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor provides a more substantial push feel, ideal for users looking for a stronger typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko Penguin tactile switch is 3.3 mm, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Viola Tricolor has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Penguin. The Penguin may be preferred by those who like a slightly shorter distance for faster response times, especially gamers. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor may be more suitable for individuals who prefer a deeper key press feeling. Both switches offer a different tactile experience based on their travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
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 Haimu Viola Tricolor has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Viola Tricolor for $3.09.
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 offers a muted and neutral sound profile, which is ideal for office environments where noise reduction is crucial. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch provides a bassy and low-pitched sound, adding a unique character to the typing experience. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them would depend on whether you prefer a quieter typing experience or a deeper, richer sound.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Penguin switch is described as polished, mild, feathery, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a light actuation force. In contrast, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switch is characterized as accented and invigorating, providing a medium level of tactility without being overwhelming. Both switches aim to strike a balance between comfort and tactility, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience for users.
Taking all the available information into account, the Akko Penguin and Haimu Viola Tricolor switches offer unique sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Penguin switch focuses on providing a quiet and balanced typing experience, the Viola Tricolor switch emphasizes a deeper sound profile and a medium level of tactility. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on whether you prioritize noise reduction, smooth typing, or a more pronounced tactile feedback. However, both switches are designed to offer a satisfying typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, consider your environment and typing preferences. If you prioritize a quiet typing experience, the Akko Penguin with its muted sound profile and polished feel may be the better choice, especially for office settings. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more punchy and bass-heavy typing feedback, the Viola Tricolor with its bassy sound and invigorating feel could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a quieter and smoother typing experience with the Penguin or a more distinctive and tactile typing experience with the Viola Tricolor.
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