Cherry MX Brown vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Brown and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Brown and Akko Penguin both offer tactile feedback, but they cater to different preferences. The Cherry MX Brown is known for its subtlety, providing a light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switches are designed for a quieter typing experience, ideal for office environments with their silent tactile feedback and medium weight. While the MX Brown is categorized as 'Textured', 'Bassy', and 'Low-pitched', the Penguin is described as 'Polished', 'Muted', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle'. Each switch has its own strengths and is suited for different uses based on personal preference. 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
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Cherry MX Brown and the Akko Penguin switches are both made of nylon, which is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in housing material suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel from both switches.
However, while the housing materials of the MX Brown and the Akko Penguin are the same, the way these materials are utilized in the switches may differ. The qualities of the nylon housing material may be split between the top and bottom of the switch, affecting the sound and feel at different points during the typing process. The bottom housing of a switch usually has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is fully pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released.
In terms of construction, the nylon top and bottom housings of both Cherry MX Brown and Akko Penguin switches play an essential role in creating the overall typing experience. The nylon material's ability to absorb sound and provide a deeper sound profile enhances the user's typing satisfaction. Despite any potential differences in how the housing materials are utilized in the switches, the shared characteristics of nylon in both switches ensure a comparable level of typing comfort and acoustics for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, it is evident that the MX Brown is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Penguin at 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Penguin is heavier at 60 grams, while the MX Brown is 55 grams. Both switches fall under the medium category, with the Penguin offering a slightly heavier overall typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the MX Brown for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those looking for a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Akko Penguin. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Akko Penguin has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Cherry MX Brown. The Cherry MX Brown with its 4 mm travel distance falls into the more traditional range, while the Akko Penguin with its 3.3 mm travel distance leans towards the shorter end of the spectrum. Gamers may prefer the Akko Penguin for its faster response times due to the shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Cherry MX Brown. Overall, both switches offer a different typing experience based on their respective travel distances.
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 Brown 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 Brown switches are often praised for their bassy and low-pitched characteristics, providing a satisfying thud with each key press. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switches are known for their muted and neutral sound profile, ensuring a quieter typing experience that is suitable for shared or work environments. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the MX Browns leaning towards a deeper tone and the Penguins focusing on minimizing noise output.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Brown switches are often described as textured, offering a tactile feedback with a slight friction that some users appreciate. Conversely, the Akko Penguin switches are polished and mild, providing a smooth key travel experience that reduces friction and promotes comfortable typing for extended periods. The feathery and subtle qualities of the Penguins make them light to press and gentle on the fingers, ideal for long typing sessions without causing fatigue. While the MX Browns offer a textured feel, the Penguins emphasize a polished and refined typing experience that appeals to users looking for a smoother feedback.
Overall, the Cherry MX Brown switches and Akko Penguin switches offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences and environments. The MX Browns provide a subtle and tactile typing experience with a bass-heavy sound, while the Penguins prioritize a quiet and polished feel that minimizes noise output. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. Whether you choose the MX Browns for their tactile feedback or the Penguins for their quiet operation, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between Cherry MX Brown and Akko Penguin tactile switches, consider the specific qualities that each switch has to offer. If you prefer a relatively light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback, the Cherry MX Brown switches are a great choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a silent typing experience with a rounded tactile bump and a balanced medium weight for extended typing sessions, the Akko Penguin switches would be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the specific typing environment in which you'll be using the switches. Both switches have their own unique advantages, so choose the one that aligns best with your needs and preferences.
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