Outemu Milk Blue vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Blue and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Milk Blue and the Akko Penguin. The Milk Blue switch is a clicky switch that offers a tactile bump and satisfying audible feedback with each press. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switch is a tactile switch that provides a quiet profile, making it ideal for office environments where noise reduction is a priority. The Penguin switch features a rounded tactile bump for a comfortable typing experience that strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. While the Milk Blue switch is best suited for those who enjoy clicky switches, the Penguin switch appeals to individuals looking for a quieter 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
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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 Milk Blue and the Akko Penguin, it is clear that both switches have distinct characteristics that contribute to their overall sound profile. The Milk Blue's polycarbonate top housing results in a sharper and higher-pitched sound, while the Penguin's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly impact the overall typing experience depending on personal preference. However, both switches make use of nylon in their bottom housing, which means they will both elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the sound-absorbing properties of the nylon material.
Interestingly, the choice of housing materials for the top and bottom of a switch can have a significant impact on the overall typing experience. In the case of the Milk Blue and Penguin switches, the different materials used in their top and bottom housing result in a split of qualities between the two parts of the switch. The bottom housing, being nylon in both cases, will have more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. On the other hand, the top housing, whether polycarbonate or nylon, will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. This demonstrates how the choice of housing materials can affect different aspects of the typing experience.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Outemu Milk Blue and the Akko Penguin switches highlight the importance of material selection in determining sound profiles and typing feel. While the polycarbonate top housing of the Milk Blue creates a clear and resonant sound, the nylon top housing of the Penguin results in a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches utilize nylon in their bottom housing, leading to a similarly deep and full sound profile. Understanding the impact of different housing materials on the overall typing experience can help individuals choose a switch that best suits their preferences and typing style.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, it is evident that the Milk Blue has a higher actuation force of 50 grams, while the Penguin has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams. The bottom out force of the Milk Blue is unknown, while the Penguin has a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Penguin requires a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke but a heavier force to fully press the key, providing a balance between ease of typing and a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Penguin for longer typing sessions, while those who prefer a stronger push feel may opt for the Milk Blue for a more tactile typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in typing feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Milk Blue switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Penguin switch. The longer travel distance of the Milk Blue switch may provide a more satisfying keypress for those who prefer a deeper actuation feel. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Penguin switch may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times for gaming. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their varying travel distances, so choosing between the two would depend on individual preferences for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Milk Blue 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 Milk Blue switch is known for its loud and clicky sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switch is recognized for its muted sound, offering a quieter typing experience that is more suitable for office environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. The choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference, with the Milk Blue switch catering to those who enjoy a more pronounced and clicky sound, while the Penguin switch appeals to individuals who prefer a quieter and more subtle typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Milk Blue switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, while the Akko Penguin switch is described as polished, mild, feathery, and subtle. The Penguin switch's smooth and refined finish, combined with its gentle actuation force and quiet sound profile, offers a comfortable typing experience that is suitable for extended use without causing fatigue. The Milk Blue switch, on the other hand, offers a more traditional tactile feedback with each key press, making it a popular choice among those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile bump during typing.
Overall, both the Outemu Milk Blue and Akko Penguin switches offer different sound and feel experiences that cater to varying preferences. The Milk Blue switch is ideal for users who enjoy a loud and clicky typing experience, while the Penguin switch is well-suited for those who prefer a quieter and more refined typing feel. Ultimately, the best switch for an individual will depend on their personal preference for sound and feel when typing. Whether you choose the Milk Blue or Penguin switch, you can expect a high-quality and satisfying typing experience that meets your specific preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that provides a satisfying clicky feedback without the loud noise, then the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quiet and tactile typing experience perfect for office settings, then the Akko Penguin tactile switch with its medium weight and rounded tactile bump would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a clicky typing experience or a silent tactile one, as well as your preference for key feel and sound profile. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make sure to consider your typing needs and environment when making your selection.
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