Dareu Aqua vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua and Akko Penguin offer unique options for different preferences. The Dareu Aqua is a linear switch known for its super light 37g actuation force, providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature that appeals to those who enjoy a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin stands out as a tactile switch that is designed for silent operation, making it an ideal choice for office environments. With a rounded tactile bump and medium weight, the Penguin switches offer a satisfying feedback while maintaining a quiet profile, suitable for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics and benefits, catering to different needs and preferences. 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
37g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and the Akko Penguin both use different materials for their top and bottom housing, with the Aqua featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Penguin has a nylon top and bottom housing. The differences in housing materials result in distinct sound profiles for each switch. The Aqua's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Penguin's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, both switches share the use of nylon for the bottom housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound profile.
In terms of aesthetics, the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the Akko Penguin also play a role. The Aqua's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting as it allows the light to shine through. On the other hand, the Penguin's nylon housing is a classic and more standard choice in switch manufacturing. The different materials used in the top and bottom housings of each switch further contribute to their unique look and feel. Despite having different top housing materials, both switches provide high-quality sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Overall, the choice between the Dareu Aqua and the Akko Penguin will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The Aqua's polycarbonate top housing offers a crisper sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a sharper sound when typing. Meanwhile, the Penguin's nylon housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, perfect for those who enjoy a rounder sound. Despite the differences in materials, both switches offer quality performance and durability, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users.
Weight
In comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, it is evident that the Aqua has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Penguin requires a slightly heavier force of 43 grams. Both switches do not have a specified bottom out force, with the Aqua listed as "None" and the Penguin at 60 grams. This indicates that the Penguin would provide a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. The Aqua, on the other hand, with its lighter actuation force, may be more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Aqua linear switch is 4.0mm, while the Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm. The Aqua offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Penguin, making it the longer option of the two. A 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, providing a bit more depth to each key press. On the other hand, a 3.3mm travel distance is slightly shorter, appealing to those who prefer a faster response time during gaming or typing. Both switches offer their own advantages, with the Aqua being better suited for those who prefer a deeper key press, while the Penguin is ideal for individuals seeking a quicker and more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired feel when typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Aqua has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua for $3.76.
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.
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, the Dareu Aqua linear switch offers a unique combination of chirpy and clacky sounds, providing a distinctive auditory experience. The chirpy nature adds a playful touch, while the clacky sound delivers a sharp and percussive note with each press. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin tactile switch focuses on creating a more muted sound profile, ideal for quiet office environments. The muted quality minimizes noise, offering a softer and more subtle sound compared to the Aqua. Both switches provide different sound experiences, catering to varying preferences, with the Aqua being more lively and the Penguin being more subdued.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Aqua switch stands out for its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, offering minimal resistance and a light typing feel. This light actuation force reduces finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions, enhancing overall comfort. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switch provides a polished and mild typing experience, with smooth key travel and a gentle tactile bump. The feathery characteristic also ensures a comfortable typing experience, making it suitable for extended usage. Both switches offer a different tactile feel, with the Aqua being more effortless and the Penguin being more refined in its feedback.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel experiences. The Aqua excels in providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature, coupled with an easy-to-press and feathery typing feel. On the other hand, the Penguin focuses on muted sound and polished, mild feedback, ensuring a quieter typing experience with a subtle tactile bump. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different user needs. Whether you prefer a livelier sound and a light touch or a quieter, more refined experience, these switches provide options for varying preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Aqua linear switch or the Akko Penguin tactile switch, you should take into account your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a super light actuation force and enjoy a distinctive chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Dareu Aqua switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a silent tactile switch with a medium weight that provides a balanced and satisfying feedback, the Akko Penguin switch would be more suitable, especially in office environments where noise reduction is important. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
