Akko Penguin vs. Everglide Sunset Yellow
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the Everglide Sunset Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, there are distinct advantages to consider for each. The Akko Penguin switches are ideal for office environments where noise reduction is crucial, thanks to their silent tactile feedback and medium weight that strike a perfect balance between responsiveness and comfort during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Everglide Sunset Yellow switches offer a luxurious typing experience with their unique sound profile reminiscent of mahjong tiles colliding, along with a distinct gliding feel and highly responsive typing experience. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
51g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single-staged lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The Akko Penguin's housing materials - nylon top and bottom - both contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. The relatively softer nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound that is pleasing to the ear. On the other hand, the Everglide Sunset Yellow's POM top and bottom housings provide a unique sound experience that leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted. While both switches offer a similar depth in sound, the Penguin's nylon housing may produce a slightly fuller sound compared to the Sunset Yellow's POM housing.
In terms of material composition, the Akko Penguin and the Everglide Sunset Yellow differ in the type of plastic used for their top and bottom housings. While both switches utilize materials known for their sound-absorbing qualities, the nylon used in the Penguin's housing tends to create a rounder and duller sound compared to the more muted sound produced by the POM housing of the Sunset Yellow. However, despite these differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with unique sound profiles that cater to a variety of preferences. Whether you prefer a fuller sound with the Penguin or a deeper, more muted sound with the Sunset Yellow, both switches deliver a premium typing experience.
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko Penguin and the Everglide Sunset Yellow, it is evident that each switch offers a distinct sound profile attributed to its top and bottom housing materials. The bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing has an impact on the sound when releasing a key. While the nylon bottom housing of the Penguin contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, the POM bottom housing of the Sunset Yellow offers a more muted and deeper sound experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel, as both options provide a high-quality typing experience with their unique housing materials.
Weight
The Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch both have the same actuation force of 43 grams, providing a consistent typing experience for users who prefer a lighter touch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Penguin requires 60 grams, making it on the heavier side compared to the Sunset Yellow's 51 grams, which is considered medium-light. The Penguin's heavier bottom out force may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, while the Sunset Yellow's lighter force could benefit users looking for a smoother and less fatiguing typing experience over long periods. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. However, the Penguin offers slightly more depth with its 3.3 mm travel distance compared to the Sunset Yellow's 3.2 mm. For those who prefer a more abrupt feel, the Sunset Yellow may be the better option, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their key presses may lean towards the Akko Penguin. Ultimately, both switches provide similar results due to their close travel distances and are ideal choices for those looking for a shorter travel distance for their keyboards.
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 Everglide Sunset Yellow comes in at $3.09 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 sound profile, perfect for those seeking a quieter typing experience suitable for office settings. On the other hand, the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch provides a bassy and thocky sound that adds a rich and indulgent element to typing. Depending on personal preference, the Penguin switch may be more suitable for a discreet and understated typing experience, while the Sunset Yellow switch caters to those who enjoy a more pronounced and engaging sound while typing. Both switches can provide a satisfying sound experience, with the Penguin being more muted and the Sunset Yellow offering a more decadent sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Akko Penguin is described as polished, mild, feathery, and subtle, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle resistance and light actuation force. This makes it comfortable for prolonged typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Everglide Sunset Yellow is described as creamy, frictionless, and polished, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with extremely smooth key travel and minimal resistance. Both switches prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience, with the Penguin focusing on a more gentle and subtle feel, while the Sunset Yellow provides a luxurious and creamy sensation when typing. Whether you prefer a lighter touch with the Penguin or a more buttery glide with the Sunset Yellow, both switches offer a premium feel to enhance your typing experience.
In conclusion, the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Penguin switch is best suited for those who prioritize a quieter typing experience with its muted sound profile and light actuation force, making it ideal for office environments. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow switch caters to individuals who enjoy a more indulgent and rich sound while typing, along with a smooth and frictionless feel that enhances the typing experience. Whether you choose the Penguin for its understated elegance or the Sunset Yellow for its luxurious sound and feel, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience that can elevate your keyboard setup. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in sound and feel, ensuring that you will achieve satisfying results no matter which option you select.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. If you are in need of a silent tactile switch with a medium weight and rounded tactile bump, ideal for office settings where noise reduction is crucial, the Akko Penguin would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a captivating sound profile reminiscent of mahjong tiles colliding, along with a creamy typing experience characterized by a rich, bassy sound, the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch would suit your preferences better. Ultimately, whether you prioritize noise minimization and tactile feedback or indulgent sound and smooth key travel, both switches offer unique qualities to enhance your typing experience. Choose the one that aligns best with your personal preferences and usage requirements.
Mentioned in this article
