Akko U1 Series: A New Chapter at Akko’s 10-Year Milestone

As Akko approaches its 10th anniversary, the journey of innovation continues with the introduction of the U1 Series — a new chapter in Akko’s exploration of mechanical switch design. Built on years of experience in developing mechanical keyboards and switches, the U1 Series reflects Akko’s continued pursuit of a more refined typing experience through advanced materials, optimized structures, and carefully tuned acoustics.

Akko’s 10-Year Journey in Mechanical Innovation

In the past 10 years, we are deeply rooted in the computer peripheral field, boasting a 6,000-square-meter self-owned factory and a complete supply chain. Our products are sold in over 60 countries worldwide, and Akko's presence can be seen at major exhibitions around the world, from CES and COMPUTEX to IFA and the Tokyo Game Show.

Born from Esports, Built for Performance

At the beginning, we has been closely connected with esports. Partnering with top teams like EDG and DOTA2 Newbee to build the competitive foundation. Over the past decade, we have continued to push performance boundaries with innovations like the latest hall effect and TMR keyboars, and Echo, Dash, Nest gaming mice, bringing professional-level performance to more players.

IP & Culture: Peripherals Beyond Function

Peripherals don’t have to be boring. We believe they can be a reflection of personality, creativity, and lifestyle

• We collaborate with globally recognized IPs like Tokyo Ghoul, One Piece, Sanrio characters (Hello Kitty, My Melody, Kuromi, etc.), Doraemon, SpongeBob, Tokidoki, and Hatsune Miku.
• Our IP collaborations extend across keyboards, mice, and mousepads, bringing iconic characters and creative designs into everyday setups.
• We also create original designs, from limited-edition zodiac collections like the Year of the Dragon and Year of the Snake, to distinctive concepts such as the MU wooden series and Mineral series.

We transform peripherals into personal expressions of style and culture. 

Expanding Innovation Across Categories

We embrace innovation and keep exploring new possibilities. From Gasket structures and advanced spring designs to TMR keyboards supporting both magnetic and mechanical switches, we continue to evolve and meet diverse user needs.

Also we have expanded into new categories with products like Matakey keyboard cases, FUNBOX arcade controllers, and gaming headsets, bringing our expertise to more aspects of the digital experience.

Switches: Precision in Every Press

From our first switches like Matcha Green to V3 Pro, and advanced magnetic switches like Astrolink and AstroAim, we have continuously pushed switch innovation forward.

And now, we launch the new series U1 switches - smoother keystrokes, more precise trigger feedback, and greater durability — every detail is shaped by a decade of listening to and refining with players worldwide.

Akko U1 Series: Refining Every Detail of Switch Design

Material Innovation: Pursuing a More Refined Feel

Material selection plays a fundamental role in switch performance. While POM has long been valued for its natural self-lubricating properties and smooth characteristics, Akko continued exploring new possibilities through a specially engineered POM-blend material for the U1 Series.

By optimizing the material composition, the U1 switches achieve a smoother and more consistent feel while maintaining the durability and reliability expected from high-quality mechanical switches. This approach allows each keystroke to feel more refined, with improved consistency across different typing sessions and keyboard configurations.

Structural Refinement: Balancing Stability and Performance

Beyond materials, internal structure has a significant impact on the final typing experience. The U1 Series introduces a redesigned cylindrical stem and optimized rail structure, carefully tuned to improve stability while reducing unnecessary friction and contact.

Every internal adjustment is designed with a balance in mind — maintaining smooth key travel, improving consistency, and creating a cleaner overall switch response. These refinements help the switch deliver a more controlled and satisfying feel from the first keystroke to the last.

Acoustic Tuning: Designing Sound as Part of the Experience

For mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, sound is an essential part of the typing experience. Akko approaches switch acoustics as a combination of multiple elements, including materials, housing design, and internal structure.

Through refined housing design and improved internal control, U1 switches aim to reduce unwanted resonance and spring noise while producing a more focused and deeper sound profile. Combined with factory lubrication, the result is a smoother and more enjoyable typing experience right out of the box.

Related Article: Meet the U1 Switch Series: Built for Smoothness, Sound & Diversity

Akko U1 Series Gains Attention from the Keyboard Industry

The U1 Series has earned recognition from leading media worldwide since launch. This reflects both the product’s quality and Akko’s decade-long commitment to enhancing user experience.

techpowerup

"As Akko approaches its 10th anniversary, the brand introduces U1 Series mechanical keyboard switches. As Akko's next-generation switch lineup, the U1 Series is built around material innovation, structural refinement, and acoustic tuning, aiming to deliver a polished typing experience." View More Here

kitguru

"Akko has announced the U1 series, a new lineup of mechanical keyboard switches developed to celebrate the brand's 10th anniversary. These next-generation switches focus on providing enhanced smoothness and refined typing acoustics out of the box." View More Here

For the mechanical keyboard, switches are one of the most important elements that define feel, sound, and user preference. Recognition from industry media shows the growing interest in Akko’s switch innovations. It also reflects our commitment to creating better keyboard experiences for users worldwide.

Akko V5 Series Keyboards Featuring U1 Switches

A great switch deserves the perfect keyboard. We also launch the mechanical keyboards featuring U1 series switches. Featured in the upgraded V5 versions of our most popular keyboard models. Supporting both ANSI and ISO layouts, the lineup offers 10+ themed designs, giving users more choices to match their personal style.

ISO Layout Series

Tailor-made for european users, we have specially prepared the ISO layout keyboards featuring the U1 series switches.

Model	Layout	Theme	Switch Options
Akko 5108 V5 ISO	100% Full-Size	Black & Gold	Creamy Yellow U1 / Creamy Blue U1
Akko 5075 V5 ISO	75% Layout	Black & Silver	Creamy Yellow U1 / Creamy Blue U1

The upcoming ISO version will be available in full-size and 75% layout, both presented in timeless classic colors – black & gold and black & silver.

And there are the two U1 series switch options:

• Creamy Yellow U1: Smooth linear feel with light, consistent keystrokes and minimal resistance. Ideal for long typing sessions and gaming.
• Creamy Blue U1: Tactile feel with a clear bump and crisp feedback. Perfect for users who enjoy a more rhythmic typing experience.

The ISO version features classic colors, designed for a timeless and versatile style. For those who prefer IP collaborations, themed designs, or more vibrant color options, more choices are available.

IP Collaboration Series

Combining beloved global IP characters with the refined feel of U1 switches, creating a desktop setup that reflects your passions. For the IP collaboration series, the pre-bulit switches are the creamy yellow U1 switch, offering a linear, smooth, and lightweight feel.

Hatsune Miku: Inspired by the iconic Hatsune green color and musical elements, featuring a full-size layout. View Hatsune Miku WITH YOU 2025 5108 V5

Hello Kitty: Bringing Hello Kitty’s signature sweetness to the keycap design with the classic red bow, featuring a full-size layout. View Hello Kitty 5108 V5

Lord of Mysteries: Inspired by its mysterious universe, incorporating elements like tarot and the Wheel of Fortune, available in full-size,  TKL, and 75% layouts. View Lord of the Mysteries 5108 V5, Lord of the Mysteries 5075 V5

The Legend of Hei: Featuring The Legend of Hei’s healing aesthetic with a vibrant black and green color scheme, available in full-size and TKL layouts. View The Legend of Hei 5108 V5

Akko Original Design Series

Inspired by Akko’s original characters and signature colors, these designs blend playful charm with clean aesthetics, adding personality to your desktop setup.

Bun Wonderland: This series boasts sweet colors and fun patterns, and a full-size 108-key layout. Available in 1K polling rate and 8K polling rate versions. Both are equipped with U1 switches, delivering a smooth linear feel, fast actuation, and responsive feedback for everyday typing and gaming. View Bun Wonderland 5108 V5

Piggy Party: This series has a joyful party atmosphere throughout its design, with a full-size  layout. View Piggy Party 5108 V5

Greedy Bear: Inspired by a greedy bear, available in pure white and pure pink, a full-size  layout. View Greedy Bear 5108 V5

Shiny Kitten: There are different color schemes for different desktop styles. Featuring crystal silver U1 switches, it offers a smooth linear feel, quick response, and satisfying rebound, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming and rapid multi-key inputs. View Shiny Kitten 5108 V5

Looking Ahead to the Next Decade of Akko Innovation

Because we believe peripherals are never just about hardware specifications. They are companions throughout daily work, trusted partners in every gaming moment, and seamless extensions of creativity. Every day, users place their trust in us through every keystroke and every click—and we are committed to creating products that truly deserve that trust.

As Akko approaches its 10th anniversary, U1 brings together years of experience with new approaches to materials, structure, and sound. From industry recognition to integration across Akko V5 Series keyboards, the U1 Series demonstrates Akko’s commitment to creating more refined and enjoyable keyboard experiences.

With new ideas ahead, Akko will continue exploring the possibilities of mechanical keyboards and developing products that inspire enthusiasts around the world.