Akko Penguin vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Penguin and SP-Star Polaris Gray stand out as top contenders with their unique characteristics. The Akko Penguin is a tactile switch perfect for office environments, thanks to its silent operation and rounded tactile bump that provides satisfying feedback with minimal noise. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray is a linear switch ideal for those seeking a bouncy typing experience, featuring a clean and clacky sound profile. While the Penguin offers a balanced weight for prolonged typing sessions, the Polaris Gray provides a polished and thocky feel. 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Akko Penguin features a nylon top and bottom housing, while the SP-Star Polaris Gray utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. These differences in material lead to varying sound profiles when typing on the switches. The nylon housing of the Penguin creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate housing of the Polaris Gray produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic makeup, providing a more clear and resonant sound experience.
Aesthetically, the differences in housing material also play a role in the overall design of the switches. The translucency of polycarbonate in the Polaris Gray allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch. On the other hand, the nylon housing of the Penguin may not offer the same level of visual customization with RGB lighting. However, both switches prioritize sound quality, with the nylon housing of the Penguin focusing on a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate housing of the Polaris Gray emphasizes a sharper and crisper sound experience.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Akko Penguin and the SP-Star Polaris Gray differ in composition and sound profiles, they both prioritize providing a quality typing experience. Whether it be the deeper and fuller sound of the nylon housing in the Penguin or the sharper and crisper sound of the polycarbonate housing in the Polaris Gray, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal sound and aesthetic preferences, as well as the desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it is evident that there are differences in actuation force and bottom out force. The Penguin has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium weight option. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 67 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. This means that the Polaris Gray requires a heavier touch to fully press the key compared to the Penguin. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Penguin, allowing for longer typing sessions with less fatigue. Conversely, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Polaris Gray due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it slightly shorter than the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Polaris Gray switch falls into the more traditional range of travel distances, while the Penguin switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. However, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Polaris Gray switch with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, with the Penguin providing a quicker key press and the Polaris Gray offering a more deliberate and deeper keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key 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 SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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 Akko Penguin tactile switch is known for its muted profile, offering a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular switches. This makes it a great choice for office environments where noise reduction is a priority. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is described as having a low-pitched sound profile, which is more bass-heavy and mellow in tone. The Polaris Gray switch is also noted for being thocky, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches will be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the Akko Penguin and SP-Star Polaris Gray switches share similarities in their descriptions. Both switches are described as offering a polished typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish for comfortable key travel. They are also both considered mild switches, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. These qualities make them suitable for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue.
In conclusion, the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Penguin switch excels in providing a quiet and tactile typing experience, ideal for office settings, while the Polaris Gray switch delivers a bouncy and low-pitched typing experience that may suit those who prefer a more pronounced sound. Despite their differences, both switches offer polished and mild characteristics, making them suitable for various typing preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preference in sound and feel, as both switches promise a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a quiet tactile switch that strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, the Akko Penguin tactile switch would be a great choice, especially for office environments where noise minimization is important. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch would be an excellent option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and the environment in which you will be using your mechanical keyboard.
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