Cherry MX Orange vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Orange and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the Cherry MX Orange and the Akko Penguin can profoundly influence your typing experience. The Cherry MX Orange, a reissue of the highly coveted original switch, is celebrated for its linear design, which offers a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke ideal for fast-paced gaming and seamless typing. In contrast, the Akko Penguin is designed as a silent tactile switch, perfect for office settings where noise control is a priority. With its rounded tactile bump, the Penguin provides satisfying feedback with each press while remaining relatively quiet, making it an ideal choice for prolonged use without fatigue. While the Cherry MX Orange promotes speed and fluidity, the Akko Penguin emphasizes comfort and discretion. 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
55g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
The housing materials of the Cherry MX Orange and the Akko Penguin switches display notable similarities, as both utilize nylon for both the top and bottom housing. This choice of material significantly influences the auditory experience while typing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The inherent properties of nylon, being relatively softer than alternatives such as polycarbonate or ABS, contribute to better sound absorption, reducing harshness and producing a duller, rounder tone. Consequently, users can expect a comparable acoustic experience whether typing on the MX Orange or the Akko Penguin, as both switches exhibit similar resonant characteristics due to their identical housing materials.
Despite these similarities, the impact of the bottom and top housing is nuanced and plays a pivotal role in the tactile feedback and audio output during key presses. The bottom housing of both switches contributes more prominently to the sound and feel at the time of bottoming out, primarily due to its sturdier structure. This means that, while both the MX Orange and the Akko Penguin will deliver a satisfying typing experience with a cohesive sound profile, the specific characteristics of how each switch feels when pressed and released might vary slightly based on the specific design and assembly of the switches beyond just the housing materials.
In essence, the use of nylon in both the Cherry MX Orange and Akko Penguin ensures a foundational similarity in sound and feel, leading to a pleasing typing experience across both models. However, individual user perception will also depend on the subtle differences brought by the overall switch design and construction, including the actuation mechanism and spring used. Thus, while users can expect a comparable sound signature due to the shared nylon composition, performance nuances may still surface, adding layers to the overall typing experience beyond the shared housing material.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, there are notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The Cherry MX Orange features an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Akko Penguin has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams. This means that the Akko Penguin is easier to press, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force of the Cherry MX Orange is unknown, while the Akko Penguin has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium. This suggests that while the actuation experience of the Penguin is lighter, the heavier bottom out force can provide a more substantial feedback. Therefore, if you're looking for a switch that allows for a softer touch for actuation, the Akko Penguin is preferable, but if you're seeking a more robust experience, understanding the Cherry MX Orange’s unknown bottom out force might be key.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Orange linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko Penguin tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This difference highlights a contrast in tactile feedback and response characteristics; the longer travel distance of the MX Orange can offer a more pronounced feel when pressing down, which some users might prefer for typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin, with its shorter travel distance, may provide more immediate keystrokes, appealing to those who favor rapid response times. For users who enjoy a more responsive feel, the Akko Penguin could be the better choice. Conversely, if you're looking for depth and a more substantial keypress, the Cherry MX Orange is the preferable option. Ultimately, your preference will determine which switch is best suited for your needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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 comparing the sound characteristics of the Cherry MX Orange switch and the Akko Penguin switch, the MX Orange is generally quieter than many other switches but isn't specifically categorized as muted. It offers a sound profile that lies somewhere between a tactile and linear switch, giving it a more neutral auditory feedback, which means it doesn't produce the clacky noises often associated with some mechanical switches. In contrast, the Akko Penguin excels in sound design for muted environments. Being a silent tactile switch, it minimizes the typical noise of mechanical keyboards, making it an ideal choice for office settings or shared spaces. The neutral sound profile of the Penguin ensures it remains unobtrusive, catering to users seeking a more discreet typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Orange switch presents a smooth linear actuation, designed for a refined typing experience, but specifics about its tactile feedback are less emphasized. The Akko Penguin switch, however, excels with its distinct rounded tactile bump, providing clear feedback with each keystroke while maintaining a polished, smooth travel. Its medium weight strikes a comfortable balance, allowing for effortless and prolonged typing sessions without incurring excessive fatigue. The Penguin also embodies qualities such as being mild and subtle, ensuring a gentle, yet engaging experience that appeals to a wide range of users.
Overall, both switches cater to different preferences. The Cherry MX Orange is great for those who appreciate a balanced auditory profile and smooth linear feel in a switch, while the Akko Penguin is specifically designed for users prioritizing a quiet typing experience without sacrificing tactile feedback. While they may not be directly comparable in every aspect, both options provide satisfying performance, with the MX Orange appealing to those who enjoy a more neutral sound, and the Penguin serving those seeking a muted, tactile experience. Depending on your environment and sensitivity to sound, one may suit you better than the other.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Cherry MX Orange and the Akko Penguin switches ultimately hinges on your specific typing preferences and the environments in which you plan to use them. If you find yourself in a setting where silence is paramount—perhaps an office or a shared workspace—the Akko Penguin’s muted and polished characteristics will provide a pleasant typing experience without disturbing those around you, thanks to its medium actuation force that allows for a comfortable, fatigue-free typing session. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more responsive switch that caters to a gaming or casual typing environment where some sound is acceptable, the Cherry MX Orange switches could be your ideal match for their smooth and lightweight feel, enabling rapid key presses with ease. The key is to reflect on your typing habits and the acoustics of your surroundings; whether you prioritize a serene atmosphere or a more engaging auditory feedback, both switches offer enjoyable, distinct experiences that cater to different user needs.
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