Akko Penguin vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Akko Penguin and the Kailh Sage. The Akko Penguin is a tactile switch that is perfect for office environments due to its silent operation. With a rounded tactile bump that provides satisfying feedback without generating excessive noise, the Penguin is great for prolonged typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage is a clicky switch that offers a distinctive typing experience with a heavy weight and sharp clickiness. While the Penguin is known for its polished and muted feel, the Sage is invigorating and crunchy. Both switches have their unique advantages, depending on the user's preference. 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
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
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 Kailh Sage, we see a stark contrast in the material used for the top housing. The Penguin utilizes a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Sage opts for a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials have their own unique characteristics, the Nylon of the Penguin offers a more rounded sound, whereas the polycarbonate of the Sage delivers a more clear and resonant sound.
Conversely, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Akko Penguin and the Kailh Sage share the same nylon material. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. By utilizing the same bottom housing material, both switches are able to deliver a similar typing experience with a duller and rounder sound. Despite the differences in their top housing materials, the consistency in their choice of bottom housing material ensures a similar typing feel and sound profile for both switches.
It's interesting to note how the choice of housing materials can influence the overall typing experience on these switches. While the top housing material plays a significant role in the sound when pressing and releasing a key, the bottom housing material affects the bottom-out sound and feel. The contrast between the softer nylon and the stiffer polycarbonate materials further highlights the importance of housing materials in determining the sound profile of switches. Whether it's the deep and fuller sound of nylon in the Penguin or the sharp and crisp sound of polycarbonate in the Sage, both materials offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing sound.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, there are notable differences in the actuation force and bottom out force. The Penguin has an actuation force of 43 grams, while the Sage's actuation force is unknown. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Penguin requiring 60 grams and the Sage requiring 70 grams. In terms of weight, the Penguin is lighter in comparison to the Sage, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. On the other hand, the Sage offers a heavier typing experience, which may be preferred by those looking for a more substantial push feel when typing. Overall, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier actuation force and bottom out force for their typing needs.
Travel distance
The Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter than the Kailh Sage clicky switch with a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In terms of comparison, the Penguin offers a slightly shallower keypress compared to the Sage. However, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. Players looking for a more abrupt keypress may lean towards the Penguin, while those desiring a deeper feel may prefer the Sage. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for keypress depth.
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 Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25 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 typing experience, producing a softer and quieter sound suitable for office environments where noise minimization is key. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch provides a crunchy sound reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves, offering a distinct clicky typing experience. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, with the Penguin focusing on maintaining a quiet profile and the Sage delivering a sharp clickiness.
Moving on to feel, the Akko Penguin switch provides a polished, mild, feathery, and subtle typing experience. These qualities result in a smooth and refined finish with reduced friction, gentle typing experience, light key presses, and gentle resistance. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch offers an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback with a moderate to firm actuation force, creating an immersive typing sensation with high feedback intensity. Both switches offer contrasting tactile feedback, with the Penguin focusing on a lighter and smoother typing experience while the Sage provides a more pronounced and crisp tactile bump.
Taking all the available information into consideration, it is evident that the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch offer distinct typing experiences in terms of sound and feel. While the Penguin focuses on a quieter and smoother typing experience ideal for office environments, the Sage delivers a more intense and immersive typing sensation with a distinct clickiness. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preference for sound, feel, and typing environment, with both switches providing satisfying feedback and performance in their respective categories.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, consider your environment and typing preferences. If you prioritize a silent typing experience for an office setting, with a medium bottom out force and smooth key travel, the Akko Penguin switch would be ideal for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a loud and clicky typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, and want a switch that offers pronounced feedback and snappy keypresses, the Kailh Sage switch would be the right choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for noise level, typing feel, and actuation force. So, choose wisely based on what suits your needs best.
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