Cherry MX Black vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Cherry MX Black and the Akko Penguin. The Cherry MX Black is a linear switch known for its low-pitched and textured feel, offering a stiff typing experience with a classic sound profile. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin stands out as a tactile switch, featuring a rounded tactile bump that provides satisfying feedback while maintaining a quiet profile. The Penguin switches are ideal for office environments where noise minimization is essential, while the MX Black switches offer a smooth typing experience with a deep sound profile. 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
80g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Cherry MX Black and the Akko Penguin feature nylon top and bottom housings, making them similar in terms of the material used for the construction of the housing. Typing on switches that use nylon housing on both the top and bottom elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the relatively softer plastic absorbing more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound for both switches.
However, where they differ is in the design and branding of the housing. The Cherry MX Black is known for its iconic design and reputation for durability, making it a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin features a unique penguin-themed design that adds a fun and whimsical touch to the keyboard, appealing to those looking for a more playful aesthetic in their setup.
In terms of performance, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their nylon housings contributing to a deeper sound profile. The Cherry MX Black is known for its consistent feel and reliability, while the Akko Penguin provides a more customizable experience with different color options available for the housing. Depending on personal preference and typing style, users may find one switch more suited to their needs over the other. Overall, both switches deliver on the promise of a tactile and responsive typing experience, with the nylon housing playing a key role in shaping the sound and feel of each key press.
Weight
The Cherry MX Black linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams compared to the Akko Penguin tactile switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. When looking at weight considerations, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Penguin switch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may enjoy the heavier push feel of the MX Black switch for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches provide different levels of force, catering to individual preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on whether a user prefers a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force for their typing needs.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Penguin switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the MX Black, making it a favorite among gamers looking for quicker response times. On the other hand, the MX Black provides a bit more depth with its 4 mm travel distance, which can be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press experience. Both switches offer different travel distances to cater to varying preferences, so choosing between them ultimately depends on your personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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 Cherry MX Black linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile that is more bass-heavy and mellow, creating a deep typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin tactile switch provides a muted and quiet sound, making it ideal for office environments where noise reduction is important. Both switches have their own unique sound characteristics, catering to different preferences and settings. However, if you prefer a quieter typing experience, the Akko Penguin switch would be the better choice.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Black switch is known for its textured and stiff typing experience, providing a noticeable amount of friction and requiring more force to actuate. In contrast, the Akko Penguin switch offers a polished and mild feel, with smooth key travel and a gentle typing experience that is comfortable for long typing sessions. The Penguin switch also has a feathery lightness that reduces finger fatigue, making it suitable for various uses. If you prefer a smoother and lighter typing feel, the Akko Penguin switch would be the preferred option.
Taking all the available information into account, the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The MX Black provides a deep and textured typing experience with a low-pitched sound, while the Penguin switch offers a quiet and polished feel with a gentle tactile bump. Depending on your sound preference and typing feel, both switches have their own strengths and can cater to different needs. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on whether you prioritize a deeper sound profile and textured typing experience or a quieter sound and smoother typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a heavy, textured, and stiff linear switch with a low-pitched sound profile, the Cherry MX Black would be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prefer a medium-weight, polished, feathery, and subtle tactile switch with a muted sound profile, the Akko Penguin would be the better option, especially if you are in an office environment where noise reduction is important. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for switch weight, feel, and sound characteristics.
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