Akko Penguin vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that come to mind are the Akko Penguin and the Gateron Silent Ink Black. The Akko Penguin is a tactile switch that marks Akko's venture into silent tactile switches, making them perfect for office settings where noise reduction is crucial. With a rounded tactile bump for satisfying feedback and a medium weight for a balance between responsiveness and comfort, the Penguin switches are ideal for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black is a linear switch that offers a quiet typing experience with a pillow-like bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback. Whether you prefer the silent tactility of the Penguin or the smooth linear feel of the Silent Ink Black, both switches have their own unique qualities to offer. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Penguin and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches both offer unique sound profiles, but with subtle differences. The nylon top housing of the Akko Penguin provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the INK blend top housing of the Gateron Silent Ink Black offers a pointed and high-pitched sound profile that is described as being clacky. While both materials have their own distinct qualities, they ultimately result in a satisfying auditory experience for users.
Similarly, the bottom housing materials of the Akko Penguin and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches also play a significant role in the overall sound profile of the switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Akko Penguin contributes to a deeper and rounder sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the INK blend bottom housing of the Gateron Silent Ink Black enhances the high-pitched and clacky sound profile of the switch. Despite their differences, both housing materials effectively impact the typing experience and add to the overall feel and sound of the switches.
When comparing the top and bottom housing materials of the Akko Penguin and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches, it is evident that each component brings its own unique qualities to the typing experience. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. While the materials may differ in terms of sound profile, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their distinct sound characteristics. Whether using the nylon housing of the Akko Penguin or the INK blend housing of the Gateron Silent Ink Black, users can expect a quality typing experience with either switch.
Weight
In comparing the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, it is evident that the Akko Penguin has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Gateron Silent Ink Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. The differing weights cater to different preferences in typing experience. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Akko Penguin for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may opt for the heavier push feel of the Gateron Silent Ink Black for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, we find that the Penguin has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Silent Ink Black has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Silent Ink Black is the longer of the two, offering a traditional travel distance that some may prefer for its deeper feel. On the other hand, the Penguin provides a shorter travel distance, which is favored by gamers seeking quicker response times. Whether you choose the shorter or longer travel distance ultimately depends on your personal preference for key feel and responsiveness. Both switches offer their own advantages, so you can expect similar results in keyboard performance regardless of your choice.
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 Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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, both the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch are described as muted, producing softer and quieter sounds compared to regular mechanical keyboard switches. This makes them both ideal choices for environments where noise reduction is important, such as offices or shared spaces. The sound produced by these switches will still depend on other factors like the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Penguin switch offers a polished, mild, feathery, and subtle typing experience, providing smooth key travel, gentle resistance, light actuation force, and reduced finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is described as silky and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimized resistance. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing feel, catering to different preferences in terms of tactile feedback and keypress experience.
In conclusion, both the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch offer unique qualities that make them suitable choices for users looking for a quieter typing experience. While the Penguin switch focuses on providing a balanced tactile feedback with medium weight and a quiet profile, the Silent Ink Black switch prioritizes a cushioned bottom-out feel with minimal audio feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Regardless of the selection, users can expect similar results in terms of noise reduction and comfort during extended typing sessions.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using them. If you prioritize a silent typing experience in an office setting, the Akko Penguin switches with their quiet operation and medium weight may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you're looking for a smooth and cushioned typing feel with minimal audio feedback, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience to ensure you have a switch that meets your specific needs.
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