Akko Penguin vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Penguin and Gateron Type L offer unique features for different preferences. The Akko Penguin is a tactile switch that excels in office settings with its silent operation and rounded tactile bump for satisfying feedback. Its medium weight strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort, making it perfect for long typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L is a linear switch that is part of a creative project aimed at combining classic travel distances with modern lubing techniques. With a light actuation force of 45g and a sound signature leaning towards the deeper end of the spectrum, the Type L provides a smooth and easy-to-press typing experience. Each switch has its own strengths and weaknesses, catering to different user preferences. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Akko Penguin and the Gateron Type L utilize nylon as their housing material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The similarities in their housing material allow for a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
While both switches share nylon as the material for their top housing, the impact of this housing material is felt differently in each switch. The bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, thus influencing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing has more influence on the sound produced when a key is released. This distinction showcases how the housing material can affect different aspects of typing on these switches.
In terms of the differences between the Akko Penguin and the Gateron Type L, it's essential to note that the bottom housing may vary between the two switches, potentially leading to a varied typing experience. Depending on the specific design and construction of the bottom housing, the bottom-out sound and feel may differ slightly between the two switches. Despite these differences, the utilization of nylon as the housing material ensures a similar level of sound absorption and a deeper, fuller sound profile for both the Akko Penguin and the Gateron Type L.
Weight
The Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch have noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Penguin has a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Type L's lighter 38 grams. Similarly, the Penguin's bottom out force is also heavier at 60 grams, while the Type L requires only 45 grams to bottom out. This means that the Penguin offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Type L provides a lighter touch that may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches offer unique benefits based on individual preferences, with the Penguin being the heavier option and the Type L being the lighter option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether a user prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron Type L linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Penguin's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Type L's longer travel distance may be preferred by those seeking a more substantial key press feel. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, so choosing between them will depend on personal preference for either a shorter or longer key press. Ultimately, the travel distance of both switches will result in similar key press actions, with the difference lying in the depth of the press.
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 Type L comes in at $4.70 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is known for its muted profile, producing a softer and quieter sound that is ideal for office environments or shared spaces. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch offers a more subdued sound, with a dampened sound signature that veers towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. Both switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various intents and purposes depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Akko Penguin switch offers a polished and mild typing experience, with a rounded tactile bump that provides satisfying feedback without being too pronounced. The switch is also described as feathery, requiring little exertion and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Similarly, the Gateron Type L switch is also described as feathery, offering a light and easy-to-press typing experience that enhances responsiveness and comfort. Both switches provide a smooth key travel experience, reducing friction and offering a pleasant typing feel for prolonged use.
In conclusion, the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch offer different but equally appealing qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Penguin is more focused on providing a quiet and balanced typing experience with its muted sound and polished feel, the Type L offers a slightly deeper sound profile and a more feathery typing experience. Ultimately, both switches excel in their own ways and can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on individual preferences and typing needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Akko Penguin tactile switch or the Gateron Type L linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and usage scenarios. If you value a medium-weight switch with a rounded tactile bump for a satisfying yet quiet typing experience in office environments, the Akko Penguin would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum and requires minimal force to activate, the Gateron Type L might be more suitable, particularly for extended typing sessions in various settings. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make your decision based on what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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