Akko Penguin vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Akko Penguin and the Gateron Quinn mechanical keyboard switches, you are faced with two tactile switches that offer unique features. The Akko Penguin is perfect for office environments with its silent tactile switches that minimize noise. It provides a satisfying feedback with each press due to its rounded tactile bump, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn stands out for its crisp, light switch-like tactility and deep, resonant sound profile, thanks to its specially designed nylon housings. While the Akko Penguin is categorized as 'Polished', 'Muted', and 'Neutral', the Gateron Quinn is described as 'Snappy', 'Bassy', and 'Resonant'. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
59g
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
3.40 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
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the Akko Penguin and Gateron Quinn feature nylon top and bottom housing, which means that they both offer a deep and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to the relatively softer nature of nylon compared to harder plastics, allowing for more sound absorption and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In terms of sound, users can expect a similar experience when typing on either switch due to the shared material in the housing.
However, where the Penguin and Quinn may differ is in the specific design and construction of their housing materials. While both switches use nylon for their housing, variations in the thickness or shape of the housing can impact the overall sound and feel of typing on the switch. The Penguin may have a slightly different sound profile compared to the Quinn due to subtle design differences in their housing. These nuances may be noticeable to users who have a keen ear for switch sound and feel.
Ultimately, whether you choose the Akko Penguin or Gateron Quinn, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the nylon housing material. Both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound, but differences in housing design may result in subtle variations in sound and feel. Users should consider their personal preferences in switch design and sound profile when selecting between the two switches.
Weight
In comparing the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it is evident that the Penguin is the lighter of the two with an actuation force of 43 grams, while the Quinn is heavier with an actuation force of 59 grams. The Penguin also has a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the Quinn's 67 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy force range, offering a balance between ease of use and tactile feedback. Overall, those looking for a lighter typing feel may prefer the Akko Penguin, while those seeking a more substantial push may opt for the Gateron Quinn. Either way, users can expect a similar typing experience based on the actuation and bottom out forces of each switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, we can see that the Penguin has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Quinn has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. While the difference between the two distances is minimal, it may still be noticeable to some users. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference - if you prefer a slightly shorter travel distance for quicker key presses, the Akko Penguin may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a bit more depth to the key press, the Gateron Quinn with its slightly longer travel distance may be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience and will provide similar results in terms of tactile feedback and key press 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 Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 profiles, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is known for its muted and neutral characteristics, making it a suitable option for quiet office environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant sound experience, providing users with a rich and immersive auditory feedback during typing sessions. Depending on personal preferences and the surrounding environment, individuals may prefer the subtlety of the Penguin's sound or the depth of the Quinn's sound.
In terms of the tactile feel, the Akko Penguin switch is described as polished, mild, feathery, and subtle, offering a smooth and gentle typing experience with reduced friction and gentle resistance. In contrast, the Gateron Quinn switch provides a snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy feel, characterized by responsiveness, smoothness, lively feedback, prominent tactility, and a buttery typing sensation. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, with the Penguin focusing on a lighter touch and the Quinn offering a more pronounced tactile feedback.
Overall, while the Akko Penguin and the Gateron Quinn tactile switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics, they both aim to provide users with a satisfying typing experience. The Penguin excels in minimizing noise and providing a balanced, medium-weight typing feel, suitable for extended use without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Quinn stands out for its unique combination of crisp tactility and rich sound profile, adding a touch of character to typing sessions. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing environment, users can expect to get similar results in terms of quality and performance from both switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko Penguin and the Gateron Quinn tactile switches, it ultimately comes down to your specific preferences and needs as a keyboard user. If you value a quieter typing experience with a medium-weight tactile bump that is ideal for office environments or extended typing sessions, the Akko Penguin switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a unique combination of crisp tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile that adds character to your typing experience, the Gateron Quinn switch might be more suitable. Consider your priorities regarding sound, feel, and intended usage to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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