Akko Penguin vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Akko Penguin and the Gateron Type S. The Akko Penguin is a tactile switch that is ideal for office settings due to its quiet nature, making it perfect for minimizing noise in shared spaces. With a rounded tactile bump and medium weight, it offers a satisfying feedback while still being easy to use for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S is a linear switch that stands out for its contemporary factory lubing techniques, providing a rejuvenated keystroke experience. With a heavier bottom-out weight of 65g, it caters to those who prefer a weightier touch while offering a pleasingly balanced sound profile. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Penguin and the Gateron Type S switches are both made of nylon, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. This similar choice of housing material between the two switches is likely to provide a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
However, if the top and bottom housings of a switch are different, each housing material will contribute differently to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing, which has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, will determine the initial typing sensation. On the other hand, the top housing will affect the sound produced when a key is released. This nuanced difference in the housing materials can lead to variations in the typing experience between the Akko Penguin and Gateron Type S switches.
In conclusion, while the Akko Penguin and Gateron Type S switches share the same nylon housing material, the specific design and construction of their top and bottom housings may lead to slight variations in the typing experience. The qualities of the housing materials will play a significant role in determining the sound profile and overall feel of each switch. Despite these subtle differences, both switches are likely to offer a comparable typing experience due to their common use of nylon as a switch housing material.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Penguin tactile switch to the Gateron Type S linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the overall typing experience. The Penguin has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Type S at 55 grams, making it easier for users to trigger keystrokes quickly. However, the Penguin also has a lower bottom out force of 60 grams, which results in a softer overall feel when pressing the keys all the way down. On the other hand, the Type S has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a firmer push feel. In terms of weighting, both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, offering a balanced typing experience for different user preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether one prioritizes a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions or a heavier bottom out force for a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which falls on the shorter end of the spectrum. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it longer than the Penguin. The Penguin's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Type S with its longer travel distance may be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper key press. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference.
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 S 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 best described as producing a muted and neutral sound profile, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a quieter typing experience without sacrificing feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a subdued quality, providing a more subtle acoustic experience. Both switches aim to provide a pleasant sound signature, with the Penguin leaning towards a softer sound and the Type S towards a deeper and more subdued tone.
Moving on to feel, the Akko Penguin switch offers a polished and mild typing experience, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction for a refined typing experience. Its feathery actuation makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. In comparison, characteristics of the Gateron Type S linear switch in terms of feel are currently unknown. However, based on the information provided, it can be inferred that the Type S likely provides a comfortable and satisfying typing experience, given its modern factory lubing techniques and weightier keystroke preference.
In conclusion, the Akko Penguin tactile switch excels in providing a tactile yet quiet typing experience with a balanced weight and satisfying feedback, perfect for office environments where noise reduction is essential. Conversely, the Gateron Type S linear switch offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, paired with a likely comfortable and weightier keystroke. Ultimately, both switches aim to cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel, offering a unique typing experience tailored to the user's individual needs. Whether choosing the Penguin for its quieter operation or the Type S for its contemporary design and satisfying keystroke, users can expect a quality typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, consider your environment and preference for typing experience. If you prioritize a quiet typing experience for office settings, with a medium actuation force and a rounded tactile bump, the Akko Penguin switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke with a deeper acoustic experience and factory-lubing for smoother key travel, the Gateron Type S linear switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer different advantages depending on your needs, so choose wisely based on your typing style and preferences.
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