Gateron Glory Red vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Red and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the Gateron Glory Red and the Akko Penguin can significantly affect your typing experience. The Gateron Glory Red, part of Gateron’s Glory lineup, is a linear switch renowned for its smooth keystrokes and pleasing travel distance, making it a top contender for gamers and typists seeking a seamless and uninterrupted flow while typing. In contrast, the Akko Penguin switch introduces a tactile experience with its rounded bump, catering to users who appreciate feedback without the noise that typically accompanies tactile switches. This feature makes it particularly advantageous for office settings where sound levels need to be kept to a minimum. The Penguins are medium-weight switches, striking a fine balance between responsiveness and comfort, ideal for those who spend long hours typing. Each switch has its unique advantages: the Glory Red for its light and fluid motions, and the Penguin for its quiet, tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
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
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Glory Red and Akko Penguin switches are constructed from nylon for both their top and bottom housings, making them quite similar in terms of material composition. Nylon is widely recognized for its acoustic properties, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Since both the Glory Red and Penguin switches utilize nylon, users can expect a punchy, rounded sound when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb sound waves more effectively than harsher plastics, leading to a muted auditory experience when compared to switches made from stiffer materials. This inherent quality of nylon translates into an overall consistency in the typing experience for both switches, promoting a satisfying acoustic feedback.
While the top and bottom housings of the Glory Red and Penguin switches are made from the same nylon material, their differences could potentially arise from variations in their design or construction. The feeling and sound when bottoming out or when releasing the key may still be affected by how these housings are engineered. Since the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel, the overall typing experience might diverge based on how each manufacturer's design maximizes the inherent qualities of the nylon. For those seeking a quiet and pleasant typing experience, the expected outcomes remain favorable, as both switches manage to deliver soft acoustic profiles, despite minor variations that could arise from specific engineering choices.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Glory Red and Akko Penguin switches share a common use of nylon in their housings, the subtleties in design and production may lead to distinct tactile and auditory experiences. However, users can rest assured that both switches will perform similarly in their acoustic quality, primarily due to the properties of nylon. The rounded sound signature characteristic of both switches is sure to provide an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience, reinforcing the notion that material choice plays a pivotal role in acoustic design within mechanical switches. Thus, whether one opts for the Gateron or Akko switch, they can anticipate a comparable baseline performance driven by the advantages of nylon.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, we observe notable differences in their actuation forces. The Glory Red requires an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Penguin has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams. This means that the Penguin may provide a more effortless typing experience, especially beneficial for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. In terms of bottom-out force, the Penguin has a measured bottom-out force of 60 grams, indicating a firmer key feel once fully pressed down. Conversely, the bottom-out force for the Glory Red is unknown, making it difficult to directly compare the substantiality of the typing experiences between the two switches. Overall, the Gateron Glory Red is the heavier option due to its higher actuation force, appealing to those who prefer a more resistance-filled typing experience, whereas the lighter Akko Penguin may cater to users looking for a softer touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, we find that the Glory Red features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Penguin has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means the Glory Red offers a slightly greater depth, which some users might appreciate for a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or those who prefer a quicker response time, as it allows for faster key actuation. Therefore, if you're seeking a switch that feels more responsive and less abrupt, the Penguin would be the better choice, while the Glory Red caters to those who enjoy a richer tactile feedback due to its longer travel distance. Ultimately, your preference will depend on whether you value speed and responsiveness or a more grounded feel in your typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Red has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Red for $4.19.
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 considering the sound profiles of the Gateron Glory Red and the Akko Penguin switches, the differences are quite pronounced. The Glory Red switches produce a light, almost gentle acoustic signature that lacks the sharpness or clackiness found in more traditional mechanical switches. They lean towards a quieter sound, making them suitable for various environments. In contrast, the Akko Penguin switches are specifically designed to be muted, producing a softer sound that minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. The neutral sound profile of the Penguin switches allows them to blend well in both office and home settings, making them an excellent choice for those who prioritize a less distracting auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Glory Red switches are known for their smooth keystrokes, providing an enjoyable travel distance without any tactile feedback, which embodies the characteristics of a linear switch. The lightness of the actuation further contributes to a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switches uniquely offer a rounded tactile bump, providing satisfactory feedback with each press. Described as polished, mild, and feathery, they ensure a smooth and refined typing experience, which reduces finger fatigue during extended use. The subtle yet comfortable resistance of the Penguins distinguishes them from the more straightforward linearity of the Glory Red switches.
In summary, while both the Gateron Glory Red and Akko Penguin switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, they each deliver a positive typing experience suited to their respective niches. The Glory Red is excellent for those who enjoy a linear switch with a gentle auditory signature, while the Akko Penguin stands out for its muted sound and pleasant tactile feedback, making it apt for environments where noise reduction is essential. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize the smoothness and lightness of a linear switch or the satisfying tactile experience of a quiet tactile switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, your preferences and usage scenarios play a crucial role. If you prioritize a smooth, uninterrupted typing experience and value minimal finger fatigue during long sessions—whether for gaming or typing—the Gateron Glory Red may be the optimal choice. Its lightweight nature ensures that each keypress feels effortless, making it great for those who appreciate speed and fluidity in their keystrokes. Conversely, if you find yourself in shared or quiet environments like offices or libraries, the Akko Penguin switches should be your go-to option. With their muted sound profile and satisfying tactile feedback, they provide an enjoyable typing experience without the noise, ensuring that you can work comfortably alongside others. Additionally, their medium resistance strikes a balance, making them suitable for users who enjoy a tactile sensation without compromising on ease of use. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by the balance you seek between sound, feel, and the specific typing experience that best fits your lifestyle.
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