Outemu Crystal vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Crystal and Akko Penguin present two unique options worth considering. The Outemu Crystal switch is a linear switch that offers a distinctive typing experience with its elastic feel and medium-light weight, resulting in a smooth and consistent keystroke. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switch is a tactile switch designed for quiet environments, featuring a rounded tactile bump for satisfying feedback without the noise. While the Crystal switch is known for its neutral sound profile, the Penguin switch strikes a balance between responsiveness and quiet operation, making it ideal for extended typing sessions in office 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
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Crystal and Akko Penguin both feature top and bottom housings made of different materials, with the Crystal using polycarbonate while the Penguin utilizes nylon. The polycarbonate top housing in the Crystal creates a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the Penguin's nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate results in a more clear and resonant sound profile, while the softer nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate's translucency is ideal for RGB lighting, while nylon is a classic switch housing material known for its durability.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Outemu Crystal and Akko Penguin also showcase differences in sound profiles. The polycarbonate bottom housing in the Crystal contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound, aligning with its top housing characteristics. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing in the Penguin enhances the deeper and fuller sound associated with its top housing. The impact of the bottom housing is felt when bottoming out a key, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in materials, both switches provide unique sound profiles based on the properties of their respective housing materials.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Crystal and Akko Penguin housing materials comes down to personal preference and desired sound profile. The polycarbonate housing in the Crystal offers a sharper and crisper sound with a clear and resonant profile, ideal for those looking for a higher-pitched sound. In contrast, the nylon housing in the Penguin provides a deeper and fuller sound with a rounder profile, appealing to those seeking a more classic typing experience. While the top and bottom housing materials affect different aspects of the sound profile, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
The Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch both offer a different typing experience in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Crystal switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Penguin switch's 43 grams, but the Crystal switch requires more force to bottom out at 55 grams compared to the Penguin switch's 60 grams. The Crystal switch provides a medium-light typing experience, while the Penguin switch offers a medium feel. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Crystal switch may be more suitable, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may lean towards the Penguin switch. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on individual preferences, with the actuation and bottom out forces playing a significant role in the typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer compared to the Akko Penguin tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Crystal offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Penguin provides a slightly shallower feel. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Penguin for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Crystal. Both switches offer their own unique feel, catering to different preferences in terms of key travel distance. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 per 10 switches.
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 Outemu Crystal linear switch is known for its chirpy and high-pitched profile, giving it a unique and distinct sound compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is described as having a muted and neutral sound, making it perfect for quiet environments such as offices. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference, with the Crystal offering a more lively sound profile while the Penguin provides a quieter typing experience.
In terms of feel, both the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch are described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. However, the Crystal switch is unique in its elasticity and medium-light weight, providing a linear feel that is distinctive to this switch. On the other hand, the Penguin switch offers a rounded tactile bump, giving a satisfying feedback with each press while maintaining a quiet profile. Both switches excel in providing a comfortable typing experience, with the Crystal catering to those who prefer a linear feel and the Penguin catering to those who enjoy tactile feedback.
Overall, the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Crystal switch provides a chirpy and high-pitched sound profile along with an elastic linear feel, the Penguin switch offers a muted and neutral sound with a rounded tactile bump for satisfying feedback. Depending on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your typing experience, both switches cater to different preferences. Ultimately, with their polished finish and smooth key travel, both switches are reliable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a high-quality typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, you should consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a unique linear typing experience with medium-light weight and a neutral sound profile, the Crystal would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a satisfying tactile feedback with a silent profile that is ideal for office environments, the Penguin switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the Crystal may appeal to those who enjoy a chirpy and high-pitched sound, while the Penguin's muted and neutral sound profile makes it suitable for shared spaces. Whether you prefer a polished and smooth typing experience or a more gentle and feathery feel, both switches offer their own advantages. Consider your preferences and needs when selecting between these two switches to enhance your typing experience.
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