Akko Penguin vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Penguin and SP-Star RedBlue stand out as popular choices among keyboard enthusiasts. The Akko Penguin is a tactile switch designed for quiet office environments, featuring a rounded tactile bump that offers satisfying feedback without being too noisy. It strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, making it ideal for long typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue is a linear switch suited for those who prefer a medium-light typing experience. It produces a low-pitched sound profile and offers a smooth typing feel. Both switches have their own unique qualities and strengths, making them suitable for 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Penguin and the SP-Star RedBlue, one significant difference lies in the top housing. The Penguin features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer plastic nature. In contrast, the RedBlue utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials impact the sound of the switch, the nylon top housing of the Penguin offers a duller and rounder sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the RedBlue provides a clearer and more resonant sound.
Similarly, when examining the bottom housing of the Akko Penguin and the SP-Star RedBlue, the differences in material composition become apparent. The Penguin's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, thanks to the softer nature of the plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of the material. These contrasting qualities of the bottom housing materials significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switches when typing.
In the case of switches with different top and bottom housing materials like the Akko Penguin and the SP-Star RedBlue, the qualities of each material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. Pressing down on the switch allows the user to feel the impact of the bottom housing material on the bottom-out sound and feel, with the characteristics of the softer nylon or the stiffer polycarbonate coming into play. Conversely, releasing a key demonstrates the influence of the top housing material on the sound produced. This split in housing materials results in a unique typing experience for each switch, with the housing materials playing a crucial role in determining the overall sound profile and feel of the switch.
Weight
The Akko Penguin tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the RedBlue switch is 57 grams, which is lighter than the Penguin's 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium category in terms of overall force required. The Penguin provides a slightly lighter typing experience with a lower actuation force, while the RedBlue offers a slightly lighter bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the RedBlue switch, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may prefer the Penguin. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing force.
Travel distance
The Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm, making it shorter than the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4mm. The Penguin offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers seeking fast inputs. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch provides a more substantial key press feel with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. Both switches offer a different feel in terms of travel distance, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize speed or a more robust key press sensation.
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 RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 and neutral sound profile, creating a softer and quieter typing experience suitable for office environments or shared spaces. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offers a low-pitched, neutral sound with a thocky quality, producing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that can be satisfying to the user. Both switches provide a moderate actuation force requirement, making them versatile for various typing preferences and environments. Depending on the keyboard and keycaps used, the sound produced by these switches can vary but generally stay within these described profiles.
Moving on to feel, the Akko Penguin switch is characterized by its polished, mild, feathery, and subtle qualities, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle resistance and light actuation force. This makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue, making it ideal for typing-intensive tasks. Similarly, the SP-Star RedBlue switch also offers a mild and polished typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel, providing a comfortable typing feel that appeals to a wide range of users. Both switches strike a balance between tactile feedback and ease of use, ensuring a pleasant typing experience for the user.
In conclusion, the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Penguin switch excels in providing a quieter typing experience suitable for office environments, while the RedBlue switch stands out with its low-pitched sound profile and polished typing feel. Depending on personal preferences and the specific use case, both switches can deliver similar results in terms of moderate actuation force, comfortable typing experience, and versatile suitability for various typing tasks. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would come down to individual preferences in sound and feel, as both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their respective characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. If you prioritize a quiet typing experience, especially in an office setting, the Akko Penguin switch with its muted sound profile and rounded tactile bump may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the SP-Star RedBlue switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should align with your preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and the specific use case for your mechanical keyboard. Choose wisely based on these factors to ensure an optimal typing experience tailored to your needs.
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