Outemu Black vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Black linear switch to the Akko Penguin tactile switch, there are key differences to take into consideration. The Outemu Black is best known for its smooth linear feel, perfect for those who prefer a consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin is designed for those seeking a tactile switch experience, with a rounded tactile bump giving satisfying feedback while maintaining a silent profile, making it ideal for office environments. The black switch is categorized as linear, while the Penguin switch falls into the categories of polished, muted, mild, neutral, feathery, and subtle. 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
65g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Polycarbonate
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Black and the Akko Penguin, the key difference lies in their top housing materials. The Black features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. In contrast, the Penguin's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. These differences in top housing material result in distinct auditory experiences when typing on these switches.
On the other hand, both the Black and the Penguin share a nylon bottom housing material, which leads to a similar deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on either switch. The nylon bottom housing in both switches absorbs sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile compared to harder plastics. This consistency in bottom housing material results in similarities in the typing experience between the two switches, despite their differences in top housing material.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Black and the Akko Penguin will come down to personal preference in sound profile. Those who prefer a sharper and crisper sound may lean towards the Black with its polycarbonate top housing, while those who enjoy a deeper and fuller sound may opt for the Penguin with its nylon top housing. However, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of bottom housing material, providing a consistent feel and sound profile when bottoming out keys.
Weight
The Outemu Black linear switch is heavier than the Akko Penguin tactile switch in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force. The Black requires 65 grams of force to actuate and 82 grams to bottom out, while the Penguin only needs 43 grams to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out. This means that the Black switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier force requirements, which may be preferred by some users who like a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Penguin switch offers a lighter typing experience, which can be more comfortable for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key weight and typing feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Black linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, it is evident that the Black has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Penguin has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Black switch's 4.0mm travel distance falls on the more traditional side, offering a more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the Penguin's 3.3 mm travel distance provides a shallower and quicker response, which is preferred by gamers for its fast reaction times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference – whether one prefers a deeper keypress with the Outemu Black or a more immediate response with the Akko Penguin.
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 Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 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 Outemu Black linear switch is known for its lack of a distinctive sound profile, making them suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is described as having a muted sound profile, producing softer and quieter keystrokes compared to regular mechanical switches. This makes the Penguin switches a great choice for environments where noise reduction is a priority, such as in offices or shared spaces.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Black switch's tactile characteristics are not specified, so we can infer that they provide a standard linear typing experience with no additional tactile feedback. In contrast, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is described as having a polished feel, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. This is complemented by its mild and feathery actuation force, reducing finger fatigue and providing comfort during long typing sessions. The subtle tactile bump of the Penguin switches also adds a satisfying feedback to each key press.
Overall, the Outemu Black linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch offer distinct experiences in both sound and feel. The Black switch provides a quiet and linear typing experience, while the Penguin switch excels in providing a softer sound profile and a polished typing feel with a moderate actuation force. Depending on your preference for sound and tactile feedback, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Outemu Black linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you prefer a heavy bottom out force and do not require any specific sound or feel characteristics, the Black switch may be the right choice for you. However, if you value a medium bottom out force, a quieter typing experience, and a smooth and gentle key feel, then the Penguin switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing style and environment where the keyboard will be used. Choose wisely and enjoy your mechanical keyboard experience!
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