Akko Penguin vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko Penguin tactile switch to the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Penguin from Akko stands out for its silent tactile feedback, making it a great choice for office environments where noise reduction is key. With a rounded tactile bump and medium weight, the Penguin strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort, perfect for long typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Red Panda from Outemu offers a light-medium amount of tactility with distinctive bottom-out and top-out sounds, providing a unique 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
43g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko Penguin and the Outemu Red Panda, we can see a clear difference in the materials used. The Penguin utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the soft and sound-absorbing properties of nylon. On the other hand, the Red Panda features a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile thanks to the stiffness of the material. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the use of different materials in the top housing sets them apart in terms of sound quality and resonance.
While the Penguin and Red Panda both share nylon as the material for their bottom housings, the distinction lies in the top housing material. This variation contributes to the overall sound and feel of the switches when typing or gaming. The softer nylon bottom housing in both switches results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more rounded sound experience. However, the choice of either polycarbonate or nylon for the top housing in the Red Panda and Penguin, respectively, alters the sound profile significantly, with one offering a crisper and higher-pitched sound and the other a dulled and fuller tone.
Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the Akko Penguin and the Outemu Red Panda bring unique characteristics to each switch. The use of nylon in both the top and bottom housings of the Penguin offers a consistent sound profile that is deep and full, whereas the Red Panda's combination of polycarbonate and nylon provides a contrasting experience with sharper and clearer tones. Understanding how each material affects the sound produced by the switches can help users choose the one that best suits their preferences and needs, whether they prioritize a sharper sound or a fuller sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is clear that both switches have a bottom out force of 60 grams, making them equally heavy in that aspect. However, the Penguin has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Red Panda's 50 grams. This means that the Penguin may feel slightly easier to activate while typing compared to the Red Panda. The lighter actuation force of the Penguin could be more appealing to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons. On the other hand, the Red Panda might be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Overall, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.3mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting their travel distances, it can be said that both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of the distance the key travels when pressed down. This means that regardless of whether you choose the Akko Penguin or the Outemu Red Panda switch, you can expect a similar level of key travel and tactile feedback. In conclusion, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience with the same travel distance.
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 Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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
In terms of sound, the Akko Penguin tactile switch offers a muted and neutral sound profile, making it a great option for environments where noise reduction is important. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch produces a thocky sound when pressed, giving a deep and satisfying auditory experience. When comparing the two, the Penguin switch will provide a quieter and softer typing sound overall.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is described as polished, mild, feathery, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle resistance. This makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. In contrast, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is characterized as mild, providing a gentle typing experience suitable for a wide range of users. Both switches offer a comfortable typing feel, making them suitable for different preferences.
Overall, the Akko Penguin tactile switch excels in noise reduction and providing a balanced typing experience with its rounded tactile bump and medium weight. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch stands out for its thocky sound and light-medium tactility, offering a different typing experience for those who prefer a bassier bottom-out and clackier top-out sound. Whether you choose the Penguin or the Red Panda, you can expect a satisfying typing experience tailored to your specific preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, consider your environment and typing preferences. If you prioritize a silent typing experience for office settings and a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, the Akko Penguin switch with its rounded tactile bump and medium weight is a great option. On the other hand, if you enjoy a light-medium amount of tactility with a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound for a satisfying typing experience, the Outemu Red Panda switch is worth considering. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you value noise minimization and a polished, feathery typing feel or prefer a thocky sound and a mild typing experience. Each switch offers unique characteristics to cater to different preferences, so choose based on what aligns best with your typing needs.
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