Gateron Beer vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Beer stands out for its unique translucent green design reminiscent of a Tsingtao beer bottle. This tactile switch offers a refreshing experience with its lightweight build and stepped tactility, providing a subtle feel and a characteristic clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switch from Akko introduces a silent tactile option perfect for office settings where noise reduction is essential. With a rounded tactile bump for satisfying feedback and a medium weight for a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, the Penguin switch is ideal for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. Both switches have their distinct qualities that cater to different preferences and environments; 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
38g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Akko Penguin, we can see that both switches offer unique characteristics based on the materials used. The polycarbonate top housing of the Beer is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature, making it resonate more clearly. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Penguin offers a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound. While the Beer's top housing is ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Penguin's nylon top housing provides a classic feel to typing.
When we look at the bottom housing of the Gateron Beer and the Akko Penguin, we find a similar trend in their properties. Both switches utilize their respective housing materials to impact the sound and feel of typing. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Beer creates a sharp and crisp sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Penguin contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, showcasing the importance of housing material in the overall typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Beer and the Akko Penguin ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. While the Beer's polycarbonate housing offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound, the Penguin's nylon housing provides a deeper and fuller sound experience. Whether you prefer the clear, resonant sound of polycarbonate or the absorbent, rounder sound of nylon, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, both switches demonstrate how housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch to the Akko Penguin tactile switch, it is evident that the Beer is lighter in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Beer has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option for those who prefer a gentler typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin offers a slightly heavier feel with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing sensation. Both switches offer a tactile typing experience, but the Beer will feel lighter and softer, while the Penguin will provide a bit more resistance and feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch both offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches. The Beer has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Penguin has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them popular choices for gamers looking for faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may make the Beer feel slightly more responsive than the Penguin. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the feel of the key press - whether you prefer a slightly deeper press with the Penguin or a slightly quicker press with the Beer.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
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 Gateron Beer tactile switch offers a clacky experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin tactile switch provides a muted sound profile, minimizing noise for a quieter typing experience, making it suitable for office environments. So, if you prefer a more crisp and percussive sound, the Beer switch is the way to go, whereas if you want a softer and quieter typing experience, the Penguin switch would be the better choice.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is known for being easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a low-impact typing feel. It also features a stepped tactility, providing a more subtle tactile experience compared to other switches. In contrast, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. It has a mild tactile bump, striking a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. So, if you prefer a light and easy typing feel, the Beer switch would be a great fit, whereas if you prefer a polished and smooth typing experience, the Penguin switch would be more suitable.
In conclusion, the Gateron Beer and Akko Penguin tactile switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics catering to different preferences. While the Beer switch provides a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel with a stepped tactility, the Penguin switch offers a muted sound profile and a polished, refined typing experience with a mild tactile bump. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize sound clarity and ease of typing (Beer) or a quieter, smoother typing experience (Penguin).
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, consider your priorities. If you are looking for a light and clacky switch that offers a unique typing experience with stepped tactility and a characteristic sound, the Gateron Beer switch may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a more balanced medium-weight switch with a quiet profile, rounded tactile bump, and polished feel, the Akko Penguin switch could be the better option, especially for office environments where noise reduction is crucial. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and intended usage.
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