Akko Penguin vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches for your typing needs, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Akko Penguin, a tactile switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile, also a tactile switch. The Akko Penguin is renowned for its silent tactile switches, making it an ideal choice for office environments where noise reduction is essential. With a rounded tactile bump, these switches offer a satisfying feedback with each press while maintaining a quiet profile. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches boast a 70g bump, providing a profound tactile experience with immersive resistance and a captivating "thocky" sound. While the Penguin switches are categorized as more polished and feathery, the WS Heavy Tactile switches are described as bouncy and sharp. Each switch has its unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Partial box
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
The housing materials of the Akko Penguin and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile are both made of nylon, which is known for creating a deep and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This shared characteristic means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, as the nylon material will have a consistent impact on the overall acoustics of the switch.
However, where the two switches may differ is in how the housing materials are utilized in the top and bottom housings. If the top and bottom housings are different for a given switch, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing, which has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, may vary in its influence on the overall typing experience between the Akko Penguin and the WS Heavy Tactile. Conversely, the top housing will affect the sound when the key is released, potentially providing a subtle difference in typing dynamics between the two switches.
In conclusion, while the Akko Penguin and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile share the use of nylon housing materials that create a deeper and fuller sound profile, potential differences may arise in how these materials are utilized in the top and bottom housings of each switch. These differences could lead to varying typing experiences, particularly in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound when releasing a key. Overall, both switches are likely to provide a satisfying typing experience due to their use of nylon housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the Penguin is lighter in terms of actuation force at 43 grams, compared to the WS Heavy Tactile's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Penguin requires 60 grams, while the WS Heavy Tactile needs 70 grams, making the WS Heavy Tactile the heavier option. Both switches fall under the medium to medium-heavy range in terms of force required. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Akko Penguin may be the better choice. On the other hand, if a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel is desired, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch would be the ideal option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. However, the Penguin has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the WS Heavy Tactile. Choosing between the two would come down to personal preference - if you prefer a slightly deeper key press, the Akko Penguin would be the better option. If you prefer a slightly shorter travel distance for quicker typing or gaming sessions, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile would be the more suitable choice. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results with minor variations in travel distance.
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 Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50 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 switch offers a muted and neutral typing experience, minimizing noise for quiet office environments. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is known for its clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile, providing a more immersive auditory experience. While the Penguin switch focuses on a softer and quieter typing sound, the WS Heavy Tactile switch delivers a sharper and more pronounced acoustic feedback, catering to those who enjoy a more dynamic typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Akko Penguin switch is described as polished, mild, feathery, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle tactile bump. It aims to provide a comfortable typing feel without causing strain on the fingers, making it suitable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is characterized as accented, bouncy, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, providing a more pronounced and lively tactile feedback with a firm actuation force. This switch offers a more tactile and responsive typing sensation, appealing to those who prefer a more tactile and engaging typing experience.
Taking into account the sound and feel qualities of the Akko Penguin and Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches, it's evident that these switches offer contrasting subjective experiences. The Penguin switch focuses on creating a quieter and more subtle typing experience, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch emphasizes a more dynamic and tactile typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference regarding sound, feel, and typing style. Whether you prefer a quieter and smoother typing experience with the Penguin switch or a more tactile and lively typing feel with the WS Heavy Tactile switch, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different user preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Akko Penguin tactile switch or the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, you should take into account your specific preferences and needs. If you prioritize a quieter typing experience for office use and value a medium weight switch with a rounded tactile bump, the Akko Penguin switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you are seeking a more immersive and engaging typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, pronounced feedback, and a "thocky" sound profile, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on factors such as noise level tolerance, typing feel preferences, and intended use case. Both switches offer unique advantages, so choose the one that best aligns with your individual typing style and environment.
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