Akko Penguin vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)

Overview

When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko Penguin and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) present two compelling yet distinct options. The Akko Penguin is designed as a silent tactile switch, making it perfect for office environments where minimizing noise is essential. With its rounded tactile bump, the Penguin offers satisfying feedback while remaining quiet, striking a balanced medium weight that suits long typing sessions without causing fatigue. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) introduces a unique experience with its hall effect technology, providing a smooth keystroke that enthusiasts have come to adore. The Sticky Rice switch delivers a neutral sound profile accentuated by a desirable "thock," thanks to its dustproof stem that enhances performance and reduces wobble. While the Penguin excels in quiet environments and prolonged usage, the Sticky Rice (V2) caters to those seeking refined tactile sensations with a bit more auditory feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing needs.

By the numbers

Akko Penguin Tactile

Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) Hall Effect

$4.22

$3.10 per 10

$8.00

$6.79 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Penguin and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), it becomes evident that they each employ different top housing materials, leading to distinct sound profiles. The Penguin's use of nylon in its top housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound due to the material's softer plastic properties, which absorb sound and create a rounder acoustic experience. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its stiffer structure that results in a sharper and crisper sound profile. This differentiation in materials means that users can expect profoundly different auditory experiences when typing on switches from these two sets.

Interestingly, both the Akko Penguin and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) utilize nylon for their bottom housings. As both switches share this nylon component, they elicit a similar deep and rich sound profile from the base of the switches. This dual use of nylon ensures that, regardless of the top housing material, the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed will offer a consistent acoustic signature in terms of depth and fullness. Consequently, typing on either switch will deliver similar results in terms of sound, particularly when considering the impact of the bottom housing on the overall tactile experience.

Ultimately, the combination of different top and bottom housing materials in both switches provides a unique interplay of sound characteristics. While the Penguin’s nylon top produces a softer, fuller sound, the Sticky Rice’s polycarbonate top promotes clarity and resonance when releasing the keys. However, the consistent nylon bottom housing in both switches fortifies the similarity in sound profiles during key presses, ensuring that the overall typing experience remains deeply satisfying. Users looking for a combination of nuanced sounds and tactile feedback will find that both switches cater to their preferences, albeit through distinct sound dynamics due to their contrasting top materials.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Penguin features an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, rendering it a lightweight option. This difference means that users who prefer a more tactile and substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the heavier Akko Penguin, while those seeking ease of use for prolonged typing sessions or gaming may favor the lighter Everglide Sticky Rice (V2). Ultimately, if both switches were equal in actuation and bottom out forces, you would expect similar typing experiences; however, due to the distinct characteristics of each switch, they cater to different user preferences.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, the differences are noteworthy. The Penguin has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Sticky Rice (V2) reaches a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Penguin the shorter option, appealing to those who prefer quicker response times, such as gamers who favor shorter distances for a snappier feel. On the other hand, the Sticky Rice (V2), with its longer 3.5 mm travel distance, may provide a more satisfying and deeper keypress experience that some users prefer for a more tactile sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding responsiveness versus key depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, the Penguin switch stands out with its muted acoustics, designed specifically for quiet environments. This makes it an excellent option for office settings where minimizing noise is essential. The neutral sound signature of the Penguin provides a moderate acoustic experience that caters to users across the spectrum, from beginners to seasoned typists. The Sticky Rice (V2), while lacking a detailed sound description, is noted for offering a delightful "thock" sound that mechanical keyboard enthusiasts often covet. This sound signature suggests it provides a richer auditory experience, potentially contrasting with the more subdued tones of the Penguin. Ultimately, while the Penguin is focused on quietude, the Sticky Rice likely caters to users who enjoy a more resonant and pronounced acoustical feedback.

In terms of feel, the Akko Penguin switches boast a polished and mild typing experience, offering a smooth and refined finish that enhances keystroke responsiveness. With a gentle tactile bump, they provide feedback without overwhelming the typist, making them suitable for prolonged use without causing fatigue. The descriptors of being feathery and subtle indicate that the Penguin switches are approachable and lightweight, which is advantageous for users seeking a comfortable typing experience over long durations. In contrast, the feel characteristics of the Sticky Rice (V2) are not explicitly detailed, but the smoothness associated with the dustproof stem implies a refined tactile sensation, ideal for those who appreciate superior keystrokes. As a result, while the Penguin offers a softer and more forgiving typing experience, the Sticky Rice may appeal to users looking for a potentially more pronounced tactile feedback.

In conclusion, both the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch cater to different user preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Penguin excels in providing a muted, discreet auditory feedback and a gentle tactile experience, making it ideal for shared spaces. Meanwhile, the Sticky Rice (V2) may deliver a more engaging acoustic presence complemented by a smooth, refined keystroke, aimed at enthusiasts seeking a punchier tactile response. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on whether a user values minimal sound for office environments or a more pronounced auditory feedback combined with a slick typing sensation.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch largely depends on your specific typing needs and environment. If you find yourself in an office or shared workspace, the Akko Penguin is an excellent choice due to its medium actuation force of 60 grams and its muted sound profile, making it ideal for minimizing noise without sacrificing tactile feedback. The polished and mild characteristics of the Penguin provide a balanced typing experience that is both comfortable and responsive, perfect for long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you're after a more refined tactile sensation and value a super smooth keystroke, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) with its lighter actuation force of 50 grams may be preferable, particularly for gaming or personal use where responsiveness and feel are prioritized. The neutral sound signature of the Sticky Rice switches, combined with their enhanced performance, delivers a delightful "thock" sound that many enthusiasts seek. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize a quieter, more subdued experience or a more delightful and engaging tactile feedback while typing.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Penguin Tactile

$4.22

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) Hall Effect

$8.00

$6.79 per 10

Learn more