Cherry MX Red vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Red and Akko Penguin offer different experiences for users to consider. The MX Red is a linear switch known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, providing a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin is a tactile switch that offers a silent typing experience with a rounded tactile bump for feedback, making it an excellent choice for office environments focused on noise minimization. While the MX Red is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', the Penguin is labeled as 'Polished', 'Muted', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle'. If you value a tactile feedback and silent operation, the Akko Penguin may be the switch for you. 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and the Akko Penguin, both switches utilize nylon for both their top and bottom housings. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the relatively softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, in terms of sound quality and typing experience, users can expect similar results from both the Cherry MX Red and the Akko Penguin switches.
However, while both switches share the same housing material, the Cherry MX Red and Akko Penguin may offer subtle differences in the typing feel and sound due to other contributing factors such as stem design, spring weight, and overall construction. The bottom housing of a switch has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Therefore, even with the same housing material, users may still notice variations in the overall typing experience between the Cherry MX Red and Akko Penguin switches.
In conclusion, while both the Cherry MX Red and Akko Penguin switches utilize nylon for their housing material, other factors such as stem design and spring weight may contribute to slight variations in the typing feel and sound between the two switches. However, the overall typing experience in terms of the deep and fuller sound profile created by nylon housing will likely be consistent across both switches. Ultimately, personal preference and typing style may play a larger role in determining which switch is preferred by individual users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, it is evident that the MX Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Penguin's 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Penguin is heavier with 60 grams, while the MX Red's bottom out force is unknown. The MX Red provides a smoother typing experience with a lighter actuation force, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, suitable for users who prefer a more pronounced keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it slightly longer than the Akko Penguin tactile switch's 3.3 mm travel distance. The MX Red is more traditional in its travel distance, offering a standard amount of depth for users to feel when typing. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin provides a slightly shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by gamers looking for a faster response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - those who prefer a deeper key press may opt for the Cherry MX Red, while those looking for a quicker typing experience may lean towards the Akko Penguin. However, both switches offer a comfortable and satisfying typing experience, so users can expect similar results from either option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 Cherry MX Red switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switch offers a muted and neutral sound, making it a quieter option that minimizes noise typical of mechanical keyboards. Both switches cater to different preferences when it comes to sound, with the MX Red providing a deeper, more pronounced sound and the Penguin offering a softer, more subtle tone.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Red switch is described as textured, providing noticeable friction when pressed. In contrast, the Akko Penguin switch features a polished and mild feel, offering a smoother and refined typing experience with reduced friction. Additionally, the Penguin switch is also described as feathery and subtle, providing a light and gentle typing feel perfect for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. While the MX Red switch offers a slightly heftier feel with its textured nature, the Penguin switch stands out with its polished and smooth finish.
Overall, the Cherry MX Red and Akko Penguin switches each have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a deeper and more pronounced sound with a slightly textured feel, the Cherry MX Red switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter typing experience with a polished, smooth feel that is gentle on your fingers, the Akko Penguin switch would be a better option. Ultimately, both switches offer a balance between sound, feel, and typing experience, giving users a variety of options based on their preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between Cherry MX Red linear switches and Akko Penguin tactile switches, you should consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a slightly heavier and deeper typing experience with a low-pitched thocky sound, the MX Red switches would be a good choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter typing experience with a rounded tactile bump and medium weight bottom out force, the Akko Penguin switches would be more suitable, especially for office settings where noise reduction is important. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing needs.
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