Kailh Box White V2 vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Kailh Box White V2 and the Akko Penguin represents a clash of preferences between auditory feedback and tactile satisfaction. The Kailh Box White V2 switches are renowned for their crisp, clicky nature, delivering pronounced tactile feedback alongside an audible click that can enhance the typing experience for those who enjoy a more traditional, interactive feel. In contrast, the Akko Penguin switches introduce a more subdued approach with a rounded tactile bump that provides satisfying feedback while minimizing noise, making them particularly well-suited for quieter environments such as offices. With their medium weight, the Penguins offer a plush typing experience that balances ease of use and responsiveness, making them ideal for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you favor the lively sound and feel of a clicky switch or the more muted, yet still tactile, experience offered by the Penguins. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that caters to your individual needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box White V2 and the Akko Penguin, distinct differences emerge that influence the acoustic character and overall typing experience of each switch. The Kailh Box White V2 features a top housing made of polycarbonate, known for its stiff properties, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material’s translucence complements RGB lighting well, making it an aesthetic choice for illuminated keyboards. In contrast, the Akko Penguin employs a nylon top housing, which is a classic material for switches. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, thus resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile that is rounded and less sharp than that produced by polycarbonate. This fundamental contrast in material characteristics directly influences the auditory feedback experienced when typing.
Both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing, utilizing nylon for this component. The bottom housings of both the Kailh Box White V2 and the Akko Penguin elicit a similar acoustic response due to the inherently absorbent qualities of nylon. As a softer plastic, it reinforces a subdued sound that tends to be deeper, providing a cohesive typing experience across both switches when bottoming out. The interplay between the nylon and polycarbonate in the Kailh Box White V2 creates a unique sound signature that is split between the two materials, while the Akko Penguin maintains a more uniform tonal character due to the use of nylon in both the top and bottom housings.
Overall, these differences in material choice illustrate how the Kailh Box White V2 and Akko Penguin cater to different preferences in sound and typing feel. Users who prefer a sharper and more pronounced sound will likely gravitate towards the polycarbonate top housing of the Box White V2, while those who favor a rounder, deeper sound experience may prefer the consistently softer tonal quality of the Akko Penguin. Although both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which results in comparable bottom-out experiences, their overall sound profiles and tactile feedback diverge due to the contrasting materials used in the top housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, we note some interesting differences that can influence user experience. The Box White V2 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a good choice for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, especially during extended sessions. In contrast, the Akko Penguin features a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams, but it has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that while the Penguin switch may feel easier to trigger at first, it requires more force to completely bottom out, offering a more substantial feedback that some typists may appreciate. Overall, if you are looking for a lighter feel during use, the Box White V2 is the clear choice; however, if you prefer a more pronounced tactile experience with a heavier bottom out feel, the Akko Penguin could be the better option.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, the Kailh Box White V2 features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the longer option, while the Akko Penguin has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, categorizing it as the shorter option. This difference of 0.3 mm may seem slight but can significantly affect the typing experience. The Kailh Box White V2 may provide a more traditional and hearty depth that some users prefer, offering a pronounced tactile feedback suitable for those who enjoy a more deliberate keystroke. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more rapid actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would come down to personal preference regarding the feel and responsiveness of the key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh Box White V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Box White V2 for $3.00.
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 Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch stands out with its crisp tactile feedback and distinctly audible click, making it an engaging choice for those who appreciate an auditory element in their typing experience. This pronounced click can create a satisfying rhythm for typists, though it may not be suitable for quiet environments. In contrast, the Akko Penguin tactile switch features a muted sound profile that is designed to minimize noise, making it ideal for office settings or shared spaces. While it doesn’t provide the same auditory feedback as the Box White V2, the Penguin's neutral sound can strike a balance, allowing for a less disruptive typing experience without completely losing the mechanical keyboard charm.
In terms of feel, the Box White V2 delivers a pronounced tactile response that engages users with each keystroke, catering to those who enjoy a more dynamic typing sensation. The clicky nature of these switches can provide a feeling of confidence and precision, although it may be perceived as less forgiving over long periods. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switch is characterized by a polished and mild tactile bump that promotes a smoother typing experience, reducing friction and supporting prolonged use with its feather-light actuation. This combination of features allows the Penguin to offer a subtle yet satisfying feedback, making it approachable for a wide range of users.
Overall, if you're looking for a choice between the Kailh Box White V2 and the Akko Penguin switches, your decision will largely hinge on your environment and typing preferences. The Box White V2 is perfect for those who relish the audible thrill of clicking, while the Akko Penguin offers a more subdued tactile feel that is equally rewarding but tailored for quieter settings. Ultimately, both switches provide unique experiences, ensuring that whether you prefer an assertive click or a gentle, polished touch, there is a switch that suits your typing style and environment.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a clicky, auditory feedback while typing and crave a lighter switch with a bottom-out force of 50 grams, the Box White V2 is an excellent option. It’s particularly suited for gaming or home environments where you want to feel every keystroke come to life with an engaging sound and tactile feedback. Conversely, if you prioritize quieter operation, especially in office settings or shared spaces, the Akko Penguin might be your best bet. With its medium 60 grams bottom-out force, it offers a well-rounded tactile bump without the noise, allowing for a smooth and polished typing experience. Its muted sound profile makes it a wise choice for prolonged typing sessions where comfort and discretion are key. Thus, consider your typing environment and the type of feedback you seek to determine which switch aligns best with your needs.
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