Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Akko Penguin mechanical keyboard switches, it all boils down to personal preference and specific needs. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is a linear switch that offers a budget-friendly option with a high-pitched clacky sound profile and a bouncy type feel. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin is a tactile switch that caters to those looking for a silent typing experience in office environments, thanks to its rounded tactile bump and quiet profile. While the G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a more resonant typing experience, the Akko Penguin strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions. 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
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Standard
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
15.4mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Akko Penguin, we see a significant difference in the materials used. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a top housing made of polycarbonate, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the Penguin utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. While both materials have their own unique qualities, the choice between a crisper sound from polycarbonate or a more muffled sound from nylon may come down to personal preference.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches feature nylon material, which is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a duller, rounder sound profile. This means that when typing on either the G Pro 3.0 Yellow or the Akko Penguin, users can expect a similar deeper and fuller sound when pressing down on the keys. The differences in the top and bottom housing materials of these switches may result in a nuanced typing experience, with the qualities of each material contributing to the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Akko Penguin comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a crisper and higher-pitched sound due to its polycarbonate top housing, while the Penguin provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top housing. Both switches share a common ground with their nylon bottom housing, ensuring a consistent typing experience in terms of absorbance and sound profile. Ultimately, users looking for a specific sound profile may lean towards one switch over the other based on the materials used in their construction.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, we can see that the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy. In contrast, the Akko Penguin has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Akko Penguin would be the better option, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a more substantial typing feel with its heavier forces, ideal for users who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This makes the Penguin the shorter option compared to the G Pro. Typically, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying feel for those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches offer different experiences due to their travel distance, with the G Pro being the longer option and the Penguin offering a shorter and potentially quicker response. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
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 G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch offers a high-pitched and resonant typing experience, creating a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin tactile switch provides a muted and neutral sound profile that minimizes noise, making it a great choice for office environments. Both switches offer distinct auditory feedback, catering to different preferences in terms of sound.
In regard to feel, both the G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch are described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is further characterized as creamy, offering a buttery sensation when typing, while the Akko Penguin switch is described as mild, feathery, and subtle, providing a gentle typing experience with light actuation force. These switches strike a balance between comfort and performance, suitable for prolonged typing sessions without causing fatigue.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow excels in producing a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, combined with a creamy and polished typing experience. The Akko Penguin stands out for its muted and neutral sound, coupled with a mild, feathery, and subtle typing feel that ensures a comfortable and approachable user experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches provide excellent options that cater to different needs and environments. Regardless of your choice, you can expect a satisfying typing experience from either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prioritize a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, along with a smooth and creamy typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a muted and neutral sound profile, along with a polished and feathery typing feel, the Akko Penguin could be the better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard.
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