HMX Cloud - 50g vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Akko Penguin each cater to distinct preferences and usage scenarios. The HMX Cloud - 50g, known for its clacky sound profile and lighter actuation force, offers a bright typing experience that is particularly appealing to enthusiasts who crave a smooth and engaging tactile interaction. Its linear design makes it a great choice for gamers and typists who value rapid keystrokes without tactile resistance. In contrast, the Akko Penguin switches introduce a subtle yet satisfying tactile bump while being remarkably quiet, making them an ideal option for office environments where noise reduction is paramount. With their medium weight, the Penguins offer a balanced feel that can enhance prolonged typing sessions, ensuring comfort without sacrificing feedback. While the Cloud - 50g excites with its lively acoustics and smooth action, the Penguin prioritizes a polished, muted experience tailored for quieter settings. 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
42g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Akko Penguin utilize nylon for their switch housings, which leads to notable similarities in their acoustic performance and tactile feedback. The nylon material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, largely due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs sound effectively. This characteristic results in a duller and rounder audio experience when typing, which many users may find appealing for both gaming and typing tasks. Moreover, since both switches share the same housing material, the user can expect a relatively consistent sound quality across the two, enabling a coherent typing experience.
When examining the housing of the Cloud - 50g and the Penguin, it is important to note that both models employ nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This uniformity ensures that the keys will sound similar regardless of whether a user is typing or bottoming out. The bottom housing, being slightly more impactful on the bottom-out sound and feel, will resonate with a consistent tonal quality due to the nylon's inherent properties. While variations in other components can influence tactile feedback, the combined use of nylon across both switches helps maintain a cohesive auditory and tactile signature.
In a scenario where the top and bottom housings may differ in material, the overall experience would be mixed, as the characteristics of each would contribute differently to the typing experience. However, since both the HMX Cloud - 50g and Akko Penguin utilize nylon consistently in their construction, users are likely to experience a unified typing sensation, characterized by rounder sounds and softer feelings upon keystrokes. This similarity allows users to choose between the two designs based on aesthetic preference or additional features rather than fundamentally differing tactile and auditory experiences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, we see notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloud - 50g features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a quick response and longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Akko Penguin has a slightly higher actuation force of 43 grams and a more substantial bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more pronounced tactile feedback that certain typists may find satisfying. Thus, while the Cloud - 50g is the lighter switch, making it easier on the fingers for extended use, the Penguin's heavier forces cater to those who enjoy a more solid feeling when typing. Although both switches offer unique advantages, the Cloud - 50g is generally preferred for comfort during prolonged use, while the Penguin appeals to enthusiasts seeking a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, there is a notable difference. The Cloud - 50g features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, making it the longer option, while the Penguin has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which qualifies as the shorter choice. This means that users who prefer a more substantial keypress might gravitate toward the Cloud - 50g for its deeper travel, whereas those seeking a faster response time may favor the Penguin's shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding key feel and typing dynamics.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cloud - 50g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cloud - 50g for $2.99.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch is characterized by its clacky sound profile, providing a bright and engaging auditory experience that typists often adore. This distinct sound can energize your typing sessions, making every keystroke feel lively and pronounced. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switch offers a much more muted sound profile, significantly minimizing the clatter typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Its quiet operation makes it a suitable choice for office environments or shared spaces, where noise reduction is critical. While both switches have their unique auditory characteristics, users should keep in mind that the overall sound can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 50g provides a silky smooth experience, which is often preferred by those who favor an unencumbered typing sensation. The light actuation force allows for quick responses, suitable for fast typists or gamers. In contrast, the Akko Penguin switch presents a more tactile feedback experience with its rounded tactile bump, which balances a polish to its operation while still being relatively mild. This switch’s medium weight offers users a gentle yet responsive interaction, making it comfortable for prolonged typing sessions without causing fatigue. The smooth key travel, combined with the subtle tactile feedback, provides an approachable feeling for most users, making both switches appealing in different contexts.
In summary, the HMX Cloud - 50g and the Akko Penguin both cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. The Cloud - 50g offers a lively clacky sound and smooth feel, ideal for those who enjoy an engaging and responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Akko Penguin focuses on noise reduction while providing tactile feedback and comfort suitable for longer usage, making it great for quieter environments. Ultimately, your choice depends on whether you prioritize sound and smoothness or a quiet, tactile typing experience. Each switch has its strengths, allowing users to find what best suits their typing style and environment.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch should largely depend on your environment and typing preferences. If you’re someone who enjoys a lively and engaging typing experience, particularly in a personal or relaxed setting, the HMX Cloud - 50g is an excellent option due to its lighter weight and clacky sound profile, which can add a sense of joy to your typing. Its silky smooth feel makes it ideal for gaming or casual use where speed and responsiveness are prioritized. Conversely, if you often find yourself in a shared workspace or prefer a quieter environment, the Akko Penguin switch will serve you better with its muted sound and polished tactile bump. These switches offer a satisfying feedback without the disruptive noise, making them perfect for long typing sessions during work or study. In essence, choose the HMX Cloud - 50g for its vibrant feel and sound in personal spaces and the Akko Penguin for a refined, subdued experience that won't disturb those around you.
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