Akko Penguin vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Penguin and PH Studio Yoel offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences. The Akko Penguin is a tactile switch that excels in office environments due to its silent operation and medium weight, striking a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel is a linear switch that provides a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile, making each key press satisfyingly resonant. While the Akko Penguin is more polished, muted, and subtle, the PH Studio Yoel is clacky, creamy, and high-pitched. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that appeal to different users, but ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preference. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Akko Penguin and the PH Studio Yoel use different housing materials for their switches, with the Penguin featuring a nylon top and bottom housing while the Yoel utilizes a polycarbonate top housing and a POM bottom housing. The nylon top housing of the Penguin 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 polycarbonate top housing of the Yoel produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer plastic nature, providing a more clear and resonant sound experience. While both housing materials offer distinct sound profiles, the differences in material composition lead to unique typing experiences for users of each switch.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Penguin's nylon and the Yoel's POM provide different sound profiles for typing. The nylon bottom housing of the Penguin contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its top housing, with the softer plastic absorbing more sound and resulting in a rounder sound. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Yoel creates a unique sound profile that is on the deeper side, offering a relatively more muted sound experience compared to the sharper sound of its polycarbonate top housing. These differences showcase the impact that bottom housing materials can have on the overall sound output of a switch.
When comparing the overall typing experience of the Akko Penguin and the PH Studio Yoel, it is evident that the choice of housing materials plays a significant role in the sound profile of each switch. While the nylon housing of the Penguin offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, the polycarbonate and POM housing of the Yoel provide a sharper and more unique sound experience. The differences between the top and bottom housing materials of each switch also highlight how the impact of each material can be felt when pressing down and releasing a key. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches aim to create a satisfying typing experience for users through their distinct sound profiles.
Weight
The Akko Penguin tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch both have a bottom out force of 60 grams, making them equally heavy in that aspect. However, the Penguin has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Yoel's 53 grams. This means that the Penguin would require less force to trigger a keystroke, making it a lighter option for those who prefer a gentler typing experience. On the other hand, the Yoel would offer a more substantial push feel due to its slightly heavier actuation force. Choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preference, with the Penguin being ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch and the Yoel for those who enjoy a bit more resistance while typing.
Travel distance
The Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In this case, the Yoel's travel distance is slightly shorter than the Penguin's. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range, making them ideal for users looking for a more responsive typing or gaming experience. Gamers, in particular, may lean towards the Yoel switch due to its slightly shorter travel distance, which can result in faster response times. However, for those who prefer a bit more depth and feedback when typing, the Akko Penguin with its slightly longer travel distance may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 PH Studio Yoel has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yoel for $4.10.
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 tactile switch is characterized as having a muted and neutral profile, ideal for environments where noise is a concern. The sound produced is softer and quieter compared to typical mechanical switches, ensuring a pleasant typing experience without causing disturbance. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch is known for its clacky, high-pitched, marbly, and resonant sound. This bright and sharp profile results in a pronounced and satisfying sound, especially as keys reach their bottom-out point. The Yoel switch offers a more resonant and percussive auditory experience compared to the Penguin switch.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Penguin switch is described as polished, mild, feathery, and subtle. These qualities contribute to a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction, gentle resistance, and a balanced feel that is approachable to most users. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel switch is considered creamy, polished, and silky. The creamy sensation offers a buttery smooth typing experience, while the polished finish and silky feel enhance the overall smoothness and reduce resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Users can expect a luxurious typing experience with the Yoel switch.
Overall, the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Penguin switch is best suited for quiet environments and prolonged typing sessions with its muted and balanced profile, the Yoel switch provides a more pronounced and luxurious typing experience with its clacky and creamy characteristics. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing environment. However, both switches offer high-quality performance and satisfaction for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Akko Penguin tactile switch or the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a silent tactile switch with a rounded tactile bump and medium weight for a balanced typing experience that is ideal for office environments, the Akko Penguin switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a bright, clacky sound profile and a delectably chewy typing experience that offers smooth key travel and a satisfying resonance, then the PH Studio Yoel switch would be more suitable for you. Both switches have their unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, so it's important to consider what aligns best with your typing style and environment. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on your personal preferences and requirements for a mechanical keyboard switch.
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