HMX Deep Navy vs. Akko Penguin

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the contrast between the HMX Deep Navy and the Akko Penguin provides a fascinating exploration of user preferences. The HMX Deep Navy, known for its immersive sound profile and silky smooth keystrokes, is an excellent choice for gamers and typists who prioritize a linear experience that delivers quick, uninterrupted presses. Its full nylon construction enhances durability while contributing to a satisfying auditory feedback that adds a layer of engagement to every stroke. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin takes a different approach with its silent tactile design, making it a standout option for those seeking a quiet yet satisfying typing experience in an office environment. With a rounded tactile bump and medium weight, these switches balance responsiveness and comfort, perfect for long hours at the keyboard without causing fatigue. Ultimately, your choice may come down to whether you prefer the sharp clarity of the Deep Navy or the muted feedback of the Penguin; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Deep Navy Linear

Akko Penguin Tactile

$3.50

$2.79 per 10

$4.22

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

The HMX Deep Navy and the Akko Penguin switches both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, presenting a notable similarity in their construction. This commonality in material choice suggests that both switches will produce akin acoustic profiles during use. Since nylon is characterized as a softer plastic, it tends to absorb sound more effectively compared to harder materials, which in turn contributes to a fuller, deeper sound profile. As a result, users can expect a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing on either the Deep Navy or the Penguin switches, as they leverage the acoustic dampening qualities of the nylon housing.

Despite the shared use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings, the overall sensation and sound profile when typing on the HMX Deep Navy and Akko Penguin switches can vary subtly depending on any design nuances that might influence the interaction between housing components. The bottom housing, being more substantial to the switch's bottom-out feel and sound, may impact the overall experience in terms of how forceful or muted each keystroke feels. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound quality during the release of a key. Because both switches utilize nylon in their entire housing assembly, the combined synergy of the materials contributes to a cohesive typing experience, ensuring that both the Deep Navy and Penguin switches maintain a certain consistency in sound and feel.

In conclusion, while the HMX Deep Navy and the Akko Penguin switches are grounded in the same nylon material for their top and bottom housings, users might experience slight variations in feel and sound based on additional design elements or profiles. However, the inherent qualities of nylon as a switch material ensure that both types are likely to provide users with a deeper, fuller sound with a softer touch. Therefore, despite their subtle design differences, both switches promise a satisfyingly similar performance, appealing to those who prefer a well-rounded acoustic typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Deep Navy linear switch with the Akko Penguin tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Deep Navy switch boasts a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended use during work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Akko Penguin switch features a medium actuation force of 43 grams and a significantly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial and tactile feedback for users who favor a firmer key press. Consequently, the HMX Deep Navy is the lighter option overall, while the Akko Penguin is the heavier choice. This difference in force characteristics suggests that if users are looking for a lighter keyboard feel, the Deep Navy would be preferable, whereas those who enjoy a more solid push might gravitate towards the Penguin switch.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, the HMX Deep Navy features a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Akko Penguin has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This slight difference means that users who opt for the Deep Navy may experience a more pronounced key press, appealing to those who prefer a deeper tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin, with its shorter travel distance, may cater to gamers and users who seek quicker response times and a more immediate keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press depth versus responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Deep Navy switch produces a rich and sharp sound profile, enhanced by its full nylon construction. This design allows for a more pronounced acoustic experience, providing a distinct auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switch offers a significantly muted sound, making it especially suitable for environments where noise minimization is important, such as offices. The Penguin's neutral sound profile strikes a balance that avoids the sharpness of louder switches, thus ensuring a quieter typing experience.

When it comes to feel, the Deep Navy switch is characterized by its silky smoothness, which allows for fluid and effortless keystrokes. This can provide an engaging tactile experience for users who appreciate a seamlessly responsive typing sensation. In contrast, the Akko Penguin switch features a medium-weight actuation and delivers a rounded tactile bump. This tactile feedback is satisfying without being overpowering, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions. The smooth and polished characteristics of the Penguin, alongside its mild and subtle nature, cater to a broad range of users who seek comfort and reduced finger fatigue during extended usage.

In conclusion, while both switches offer distinct sonic and tactile experiences, they cater to different preferences. The Deep Navy appeals to those who enjoy a richer sound and an exceptionally smooth feel, making it perfect for expressive typing. Conversely, the Akko Penguin is designed for users who prioritize quiet operation and tactile feedback, suitable for both work and leisure. If you’re looking for a unique sound experience, the Deep Navy will deliver, while the Penguin ensures comfort and discretion, making either choice valid based on your personal typing needs.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch should be based on your typing preferences and environment. If you prioritize a light, smooth typing experience with a rich sound profile, the Deep Navy will likely be your best option. Its bottom-out force of 45 grams means that you can enjoy effortless keystrokes, ideal for gaming or fast-paced typing without worrying about fatigue. On the other hand, if you are working in a shared or office space, the Akko Penguin is a solid choice due to its muted sound and tactile feedback. With a heavier bottom-out force of 60 grams, it offers a satisfying tactile bump while reducing noise levels, making it more accommodating for those around you. Ultimately, for gaming enthusiasts or those who appreciate a melodic sound with a smooth feel, go for the Deep Navy; conversely, if comfort, quiet operation, and a balanced tactile experience are your priorities, the Akko Penguin will serve you well.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Deep Navy Linear

$3.50

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

Akko Penguin Tactile

$4.22

$3.10 per 10

Learn more