Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, personal preference often dictates which option is best suited for your typing style and environment. The Cherry MX Purple RGB switches stand out with their refined tactile experience, characterized by a short, medium-strength bump that caters to both gaming and typing enthusiasts. Developed in collaboration with keyboard expert Glarses, these switches not only offer satisfying feedback but also bring a vibrant RGB experience to your setup. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switches introduce a quieter yet equally tactile option, perfect for office environments where noise reduction is essential. With their fairly rounded tactile bump and medium weight, the Penguins provide a balanced typing experience, allowing for prolonged usage without fatigue. While the MX Purple is ideal for those seeking a lively RGB and a pronounced tactile feel, the Akko Penguin is perfect for users who prefer a subdued yet responsive typing experience. 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
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 Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Akko Penguin both utilize nylon for their switch housings, which presents a fantastic foundation for a similar auditory experience. As highlighted, the nylon top housing contributes significantly to sound quality. This material is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, which is a result of its softer nature compared to harder plastics. Both keyboards thus deliver a rounded and duller sound when typing, ensuring that users experience a satisfying keystroke that feels both robust and plush. The uniformity in housing material across both switches creates a consistent typing experience, making either choice suitable for those who prioritize auditory feedback in their keyboards.
In addition to the top housing, the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Akko Penguin also feature nylon for their bottom housings. This shared characteristic further reinforces the acoustic properties experienced while typing. The bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel—a key component of the switch's overall performance. Since both switches employ nylon at this level as well, users can expect similar results in terms of sound dampening and tactile feedback when they press down on the keystroke. The nylon bottom housing not only contributes to a satisfying audible experience but also enhances the overall aesthetic of the typing journey, ultimately making the two switches feel rather alike in this regard.
While both the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Akko Penguin utilize nylon for their housings, there could still be subtle variances in design or construction that may influence switch feel and responsiveness. If there were differences in top and bottom housing materials between the two, you would experience a slight division in the characteristics each material brings to the switch. However, the consistent use of nylon in both sets of housings mitigates this potential issue, resulting in a relatively uniform experience across both switches. Ultimately, users can expect that the thoughtful design and material choices of both the MX Purple RGB and the Akko Penguin aim to provide an inviting typing experience that emphasizes sound quality and tactile satisfaction.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch to the Akko Penguin tactile switch, we see that the actuation force for the Cherry MX Purple is 45 grams, slightly heavier than the Akko Penguin's actuation force of 43 grams. This means that the Cherry MX switch requires a bit more effort to register a keystroke, making it potentially preferable for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the lighter actuation force of the Akko Penguin may appeal to users who favor prolonged typing sessions or gaming, as it can help reduce finger fatigue over time. In terms of bottom out force, the Cherry MX Purple has an unknown measurement, while the Akko Penguin has a defined bottom out force of 60 grams, which falls into a medium category. This distinction highlights that users may experience a firmer feel with the Akko Penguin upon pressing all the way down, whereas the Cherry MX Purple's bottoming out experience remains uncertain. Consequently, while both switches are relatively tactile, the Akko Penguin is heavier overall due to its defined bottom out force, offering a more pronounced feedback ideal for those who prefer stronger push feels.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference that may influence a user's choice based on their preferences. The Cherry MX Purple RGB features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional design favored for its substantial keypress depth, providing a satisfying tactile feedback. In contrast, the Akko Penguin tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, appealing particularly to gamers who typically prefer the rapid response times that shorter switches facilitate. While both switches offer tactile feedback, the longer travel distance of the Cherry MX Purple RGB may feel more hearty and substantial, whereas the Akko Penguin's shorter travel distance could feel more abrupt, catering to those who prioritize speed over depth. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value a deeper keypress or a more responsive action.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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
The sound profile of the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch is characterized by its refined auditory feedback, which falls into a pleasant middle ground compared to louder, more pronounced switches. While the specifics of the sound are not detailed, it is likely that its design provides a satisfying auditory cue without being overly disruptive. In contrast, the Akko Penguin switches are designed with a muted sound signature, making them notably quieter than traditional tactile switches. With their softer and more neutral acoustic profile, the Penguins excel in environments where noise reduction is paramount, such as offices. Thus, while both switches provide a satisfying sound experience, the MX Purple RGB suits those who appreciate slight auditory feedback, while the Penguins cater to those seeking a quieter typing experience.
Regarding the feel of the switches, the Cherry MX Purple RGB offers a refined tactile experience that includes a short, medium-strength bump. This unique design, developed with input from keyboard enthusiasts, promotes an engaging interaction with every keystroke. In comparison, the Akko Penguin switches provide a more rounded tactile bump, characterized as polished and mild. This means the typing experience can be smooth and gentle, reducing fatigue during prolonged use. Additionally, the Penguins are described as having a feathery touch, allowing for effortless keystrokes. Overall, both switches strive to provide a satisfying tactile feedback, though the MX Purple RGB emphasizes a more direct tactile response, whereas the Penguins focus on a fluid and nuanced typing experience.
In summary, both the Cherry MX Purple RGB and Akko Penguin tactile switches offer unique but appealing characteristics tailored to different preferences. The MX Purple RGB is suited for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile bump with an engaging sound, making it a good choice for personal setups. In contrast, the Akko Penguin is ideal for users seeking a quieter operation without sacrificing a satisfying tactile experience, particularly in shared or professional environments. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether the user prioritizes sound, tactile feedback, or the setting in which they will be used.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch will largely depend on your specific needs and typing environment. If you prioritize a balanced tactile feedback with a refined and responsive experience, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch may be your best bet, especially if you enjoy a more pronounced tactile bump. However, keep in mind that the lack of detailed information on its bottom-out force may require some trial for comfort. On the other hand, if you are looking for a quieter switch suitable for shared or office environments, the Akko Penguin is designed with a muted sound profile and a medium actuation force of 60 grams, making it an excellent choice for prolonged typing sessions. The Penguin switch offers a polished and smooth typing experience, yet it maintains a subtle tactile feedback that caters to users seeking a gentle yet effective typing feel. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you seek a vivid tactile response with the MX Purple or a soft, understated keystroke with the Akko Penguin.
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