Akko Penguin vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Penguin and SP-Star Yanyu offer unique experiences catered to different preferences. The Akko Penguin, a tactile switch, is renowned for its silent feature, making it an excellent choice for office environments where noise reduction is essential. With a rounded tactile bump that provides satisfying feedback while remaining quiet, the medium weight of the Penguin strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, ideal for prolonged typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu, a linear switch, is perfect for those looking for a delicate typing experience or typing for extended periods. Its material blend gives it a crisp sound profile, offering a different typing feel compared to the Akko Penguin. 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
43g
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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
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 SP-Star Yanyu both utilize nylon, but with a unique blend in the case of the Yanyu. Nylon is known for its softer properties, which absorb sound well and create a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This results in a duller and rounder sound overall. On the other hand, the Yanyu's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE offers a sound profile that is described as pleasant and slightly brighter. This unique blend gives the switch a different feel and sound experience compared to the Penguin.
In terms of the top housing, both the Penguin and Yanyu utilize different materials. The Penguin's nylon top housing provides a deeper sound profile, while the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend offers a slightly brighter and unique sound. These differences in material composition result in distinct typing experiences for users of the two switches. The impact of the top housing on the sound when releasing a key is notable, bringing a different sound profile to each of these switches.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Penguin and Yanyu employ nylon, with the Yanyu incorporating a blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, influencing the overall typing experience. While the Nylon bottom housing of the Penguin provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, the unique blend in the Yanyu offers a pleasant and slightly brighter sound. These differences in bottom housing material contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of the switches when typing.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Akko Penguin has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium level of resistance. In contrast, the SP-Star Yanyu has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it a lighter option. The Penguin offers a more substantial typing experience with a higher actuation and bottom out force, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Yanyu's lighter bottom out force may be favored by individuals looking for a smoother typing experience or those who type for longer periods. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces, with the Penguin being the heavier option and the Yanyu being the lighter alternative.
Travel distance
The Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While the Penguin offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, the Yanyu provides a bit more depth for those who prefer a more robust key press. Both switches fall within the range of common travel distances, with the Yanyu being more traditional and the Penguin offering a slightly more compact option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to individual preferences for key press 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 SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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, both the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch fall under the category of neutral, which means they have a moderate sound profile suitable for various environments. The Penguin is described as producing a muted sound, which is softer and quieter, making it ideal for office settings where noise reduction is important. On the other hand, the Yanyu is noted for a thocky sound, which is deep and satisfying. Ultimately, the sound of these switches will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both switches share similar qualities such as being mild and offering a gentle typing experience. The Penguin is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. It also has a feathery and subtle resistance, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Similarly, the Yanyu is noted for its feathery and subtle feel, with a polished finish for a sleek typing experience. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and approachable typing feel for users, with slight variations based on personal preference.
In conclusion, the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offer comparable subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Penguin excels in providing a quiet and satisfying typing experience, the Yanyu emphasizes a crisp sound profile and a delicate typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Regardless of the choice, both switches offer a balanced and enjoyable typing experience, ensuring that users will have a positive experience with either option.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, if you are looking for a keyboard switch that offers a balance between tactile feedback and quiet operation, the Akko Penguin tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. With a medium bottom out force, polished feel, and muted sound profile, these switches are perfect for office environments or prolonged typing sessions where noise reduction is a priority. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a more delicate typing experience, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch would be more suitable for you. With a bottom out force of 43 grams, a feathery feel, and a thocky sound profile, these switches are great for those who want a comfortable typing experience without causing fatigue. Ultimately, your choice between the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch will depend on your personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and intended usage.
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