Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Speed Silver and Akko Penguin stand out as popular choices among enthusiasts. The MX Speed Silver is a linear switch that boasts rapid response time with its low spring resistance, making it perfect for gamers seeking lightning-fast reactions. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin is a tactile switch known for its silent operation and satisfying feedback thanks to its rounded tactile bump. This makes it a great choice for office environments where noise reduction is a priority. While the MX Speed Silver excels in speed and responsiveness, the Akko Penguin strikes a balance between tactility and quiet operation. 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
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 Speed Silver and the Akko Penguin both use nylon as the material for their top and bottom housings. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches using nylon, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches produce a duller and rounder sound compared to switches made with harder housing materials. This shared characteristic means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either the MX Speed Silver or the Akko Penguin.
Despite both switches having nylon top and bottom housings, there may be subtle differences in the overall sound and feel due to the placement of these materials. The bottom housing of a switch typically has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This means that even with the same material used for both housings, the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Akko Penguin may still offer slightly different typing experiences based on how the nylon material is utilized in each switch.
However, these differences may be minimal, as nylon is a classic switch housing material known for its ability to create a unique sound profile. Both the MX Speed Silver and the Akko Penguin capitalize on the acoustic properties of nylon to offer users a satisfying typing experience with a deep and full sound. Ultimately, whether one chooses the Cherry MX Speed Silver or the Akko Penguin, they can expect a similar level of performance and sound quality due to the shared use of nylon in their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, it is evident that the MX Speed Silver is the lighter option with an actuation force of 30 grams, while the Penguin is heavier with an actuation force of 43 grams. The MX Speed Silver has a bottom out force that is unknown, while the Penguin has a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium force switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the MX Speed Silver would be the ideal choice due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may prefer the Akko Penguin with its higher actuation force. Both switches offer different experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to the preferences of users who prefer either a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, we find that the MX Speed Silver has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Penguin's 3.3 mm. Both of these switches offer a shorter travel distance than the traditional 4.0 mm, making them ideal for individuals who prioritize faster response times, such as gamers. The MX Speed Silver may provide a slightly more responsive feel due to its slightly longer travel distance, while the Penguin's slightly shorter distance may offer a more abrupt feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference for either a slightly longer or shorter travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver 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 Speed Silver 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 Speed Silver switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched characteristics, producing a deep and satisfying sound with each press. This can be ideal for gamers looking for a tactile feedback while minimizing distracting noise. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switch is described as muted and neutral, offering a softer and quieter typing experience suitable for office environments where noise reduction is crucial. Despite the differences in sound profiles, both switches can provide a pleasant typing experience depending on your preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is noted for its textured characteristic, providing users with a tactile sensation when pressed. This can offer a unique typing experience for those who enjoy a bit of friction during use. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switch features a polished, mild, feathery, and subtle feel, offering a smooth and gentle typing experience with minimal resistance. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing environment, but the choice between a textured or polished feel ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch and the Akko Penguin switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and requirements. The MX Speed Silver excels in providing a tactile and responsive typing experience, ideal for gamers seeking quick and precise keystrokes, while the Akko Penguin focuses on delivering a smooth and quiet typing experience, making it suitable for office environments where noise is a concern. Ultimately, both switches can deliver satisfactory results depending on individual needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Akko Penguin switches, consider your priorities and preferences. If you prioritize speed and instant response for gaming, the MX Speed Silver with its low spring resistance and linear action is the way to go. On the other hand, if you value a quiet typing experience for office environments and enjoy a tactile feedback with a balanced weight, the Akko Penguin switches are a great choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to your specific needs and usage scenarios. Whether it's for gaming or work, the right switch can enhance your overall typing experience.
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