Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Akko Penguin mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with two distinct options that cater to different preferences. The Ink Black V2 is a linear switch that offers a smooth downstroke and a rich clack, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts for its low-pitched and bassy sound profile. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin is a tactile switch designed for silent operation, perfect for office environments where noise reduction is crucial. With a rounded tactile bump and medium weight, the Penguin provides a satisfying feedback while maintaining a quiet profile, ideal for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. Both switches have their unique characteristics and advantages, but ultimately, the choice between them will depend on your personal preferences and typing needs. 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
60g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Akko Penguin, it is clear that they offer distinct sound profiles due to their different materials. The Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a more pointed and higher-pitched sound, described as clacky, while the Penguin's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. This difference in sound is attributed to the hardness of the plastic used in each housing material, with the nylon top housing of the Penguin absorbing more sound than the harder plastic of the INK blend top housing of the Ink Black V2.
Similarly, when examining the bottom housing materials of these switches, we see a parallel contrast. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Black V2 contributes to its high-pitched and clacky sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Penguin results in a rounder and duller sound. Again, this can be attributed to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound compared to the harder INK blend material. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press, affecting the overall typing experience for users of these switches.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Akko Penguin result in distinct typing experiences for users. While the INK blend top and bottom housing of the Ink Black V2 provide a more pointed and high-pitched sound profile, the nylon housing of the Penguin offers a deeper and fuller sound. Despite these differences, both switches are engineered to provide satisfying typing experiences, with the top housing impacting the sound upon key release and the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference for sound and typing feel.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Akko Penguin tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, falling into the medium category. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Akko Penguin may be the better choice due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may lean towards the Gateron Ink Black V2 despite its heavier actuation force. Both switches offer a different typing experience, but ultimately the choice between them will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, we find that the Ink Black V2 has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Penguin has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Penguin has a shorter travel distance compared to the Ink Black V2. The shorter travel distance of the Penguin may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Ink Black V2 may be preferred by those seeking a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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 Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is known for its low-pitched and bassy sound profile, providing a rich and mellow tone with a unique chirpiness. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is characterized by its muted and neutral sound, offering a softer and quieter typing experience suitable for office environments. Both switches excel in minimizing noise, with the Ink Black V2 providing a more bass-heavy tone and the Penguin maintaining a moderate sound profile.
When it comes to feel, both the Ink Black V2 and Akko Penguin switches share similarities in their polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, they both offer a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users, striking a balance between responsiveness and comfort. The Penguin switch also boasts a feather-light actuation force, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Overall, both switches provide a pleasant typing feel with subtle characteristics that make them suitable for various typing preferences.
Considering all available information, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ink Black V2 provides a more pronounced and bass-heavy sound profile with a smooth typing experience, the Penguin offers a quieter sound with a feather-light actuation force for enhanced comfort during typing. Both switches are well-suited for different preferences and environments, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users seeking either a rich sound or a quiet profile. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a smooth downstroke and a rich clack, the Ink Black V2 would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a quieter option with a balanced tactile bump and a medium weight, the Akko Penguin switch may be more suitable, especially in office environments where noise reduction is important. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal typing style and environment. Evaluate these factors carefully to determine which switch aligns best with your needs and preferences.
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