Outemu Lotus vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lotus and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, it's important to note that each switch offers unique features suited for different preferences. The Lotus is distinguished by its smooth keystroke, while the Penguin is renowned for its silent tactile feedback, making it an ideal choice for office environments where noise reduction is crucial. The Lotus is categorized as a linear switch, while the Penguin falls under categories like polished, muted, and subtle. The Lotus provides a smooth keystroke without the tactile bump, offering a consistent typing experience, while the Penguin features a rounded tactile bump for satisfying feedback with minimal noise. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Lotus and the Akko Penguin feature nylon top and bottom housings, which provide a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and duller sound. This commonality means that users can expect similar acoustics and typing experiences from both switches when it comes to the top and bottom housing materials.
However, where the Outemu Lotus and Akko Penguin differ is in any potential differences between their top and bottom housing materials. If these switches have varying materials for the top and bottom, the qualities of each housing material will be felt in different aspects of typing. The bottom housing will have more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed, while the top housing will impact the sound when releasing a key. This distinction could potentially lead to variations in the typing experience between the two switches.
Overall, the nylon housings in both the Outemu Lotus and the Akko Penguin contribute to a more pleasant typing experience by creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The soft nature of nylon allows for sound absorption, resulting in a rounder sound that is less harsh to the ears. While both switches share this positive attribute, any potential differences in the top and bottom housing materials could lead to nuanced variations in typing feel and sound between the Outemu Lotus and the Akko Penguin.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, it is clear that the Lotus is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out force. The Lotus has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option for those who prefer a gentler typing experience. On the other hand, the Penguin has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it slightly heavier in comparison. Those who prefer a stronger push feel may find the Penguin more suitable for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches have their advantages, with the Lotus being ideal for longer typing sessions and the Penguin offering a more tactile and responsive feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the key travel 3.3 mm from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying typing experience with their identical travel distances. This similarity in travel distance means that users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and responsiveness when using either switch. The Lotus linear switch and the Penguin tactile switch offer a smooth and consistent typing experience with their 3.3 mm travel distance, making them both excellent choices for different preferences in typing feel.
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 Lotus 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 Lotus linear switch doesn't have a specific description provided, so we can assume it falls within the regular or clacky sound profile typical of linear switches. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is described as producing a muted sound. This means that the Penguin switch will offer a softer and quieter typing experience compared to the Lotus switch, making it a better choice for settings where noise reduction is a priority, such as in office environments or shared spaces.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Lotus linear switch also lacks a specific description, leaving room for interpretation based on its linear characteristics. In contrast, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is described as polished, mild, feathery, and subtle. These descriptors suggest that the Penguin switch offers a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle touch, light actuation force, and comfortable feedback. While the feel of the Lotus switch remains unknown, the qualities attributed to the Penguin switch indicate a more nuanced and user-friendly typing experience, particularly suitable for prolonged use without causing strain.
Considering the available information on the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, it's evident that they offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lotus switch emphasizes linear characteristics without specific descriptors, suggesting a more standard typing experience in terms of sound and feel. On the other hand, the Penguin switch stands out for its muted sound profile and polished, mild, feathery, and subtle feel, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a quieter and more refined typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing comfort.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Lotus linear switch or the Akko Penguin tactile switch, you should take into account your priorities. If you are focused on a light keystroke with a lower bottom out force and are not concerned with tactile feedback, the Lotus may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you value a quiet typing experience with a medium weight switch that offers a satisfying tactile bump, the Penguin would be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, both switches have their strengths and it's important to choose based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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