Akko Penguin vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Penguin and the Dareu Sky POM offer two distinct options for users with different preferences. The Akko Penguin is a tactile switch perfect for those working in office environments, thanks to its silent operation and satisfying tactile feedback with each press. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM is a linear switch made entirely from POM material, offering a premium typing experience with a clacky sound, smooth keypresses, and gentle actuation force. If you are looking for a quiet yet tactile typing experience, the Akko Penguin may be the way to go. However, if you prefer a smooth and premium typing experience with a bit more sound, the Dareu Sky POM could be the better choice. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Penguin and the Dareu Sky POM switches both offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to their use of softer plastics that absorb more sound. However, the Penguin uses a nylon top housing while the Sky POM uses a POM top housing. The nylon top housing of the Penguin creates a duller and rounder sound, whereas the POM top housing of the Sky POM creates a more muted sound profile. Both switches offer a unique typing experience with a focus on sound quality, but the type of sound produced differs slightly between the two.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Akko Penguin and the Dareu Sky POM switches use nylon for their bottom housing material. This results in a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile, with both switches offering a deep and fuller sound. The softer nylon material used for the bottom housing absorbs more sound than harder plastics, contributing to the overall sound profile of the switches. While the bottom housing may have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing influences the sound when a key is released, providing a well-rounded typing experience for users of both switches.
Overall, the housing materials of the Akko Penguin and the Dareu Sky POM switches provide a unique typing experience with a focus on sound quality. The differences in the top housing material between nylon and POM result in slightly varied sound profiles, with the nylon top housing of the Penguin offering a duller and rounder sound compared to the more muted sound produced by the POM top housing of the Sky POM. However, both switches utilize a nylon bottom housing material, which contributes to a deep and fuller sound profile that creates a satisfying typing experience for users. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with a focus on sound quality, making them popular choices among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Akko Penguin tactile switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Dareu Sky POM linear switch's 40 grams. However, the Penguin also has a higher bottom out force of 60 grams, whereas the bottom out force of the Sky POM switch is unknown. In terms of weight, the Penguin is considered to be on the medium side, providing a good balance between actuation and bottom out force. On the other hand, the Sky POM switch's weight is unavailable. When it comes to preference, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Sky POM switch for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others may choose the heavier bottom out force of the Penguin switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Dareu Sky POM has a longer travel distance compared to the Akko Penguin. The 0.5 mm difference may not seem like much, but it can make a noticeable impact on the feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Akko Penguin with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may gravitate towards the Dareu Sky POM. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Dareu Sky POM has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky POM for $4.98.
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, the Akko Penguin tactile switch offers a muted and neutral typing experience, perfect for office settings where noise reduction is a priority. The Dareu Sky POM linear switch, on the other hand, provides a low-pitched clacky sound that is bass-heavy and mellow. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, so the choice between them would depend on personal preference and the environment in which they will be used.
In terms of feel, the Akko Penguin switch provides a polished, mild, feathery, and subtle typing experience. These qualities result in a smooth and refined keystroke with reduced friction, light actuation force, and gentle resistance. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering a smooth and effortless keystroke experience that glides with ease. Both switches excel in providing a comfortable typing feel, but the specific characteristics vary between the two, allowing users to choose based on their preference for typing style.
In conclusion, the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. The Penguin switch focuses on providing a quiet and balanced typing experience with a rounded tactile bump, while the Sky POM switch emphasizes smoothness and premium quality with a clacky sound profile. Depending on the user's preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience, but it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific use case for the keyboard.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. If you need a quiet switch for an office setting and prefer a medium weight that balances responsiveness and comfort, the Akko Penguin is the way to go. On the other hand, if you value a premium feel and smooth actuation at an affordable price, the Dareu Sky POM switch, known for its clacky sound and buttery smoothness, may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for noise level, key feel, and budget.
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