Akko Penguin vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi 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 Wuque Studio WS Morandi. The Akko Penguin is a tactile switch that excels in providing a quiet and satisfying typing experience, making it an excellent choice for office environments where noise reduction is crucial. With its rounded tactile bump and medium weight, the Penguin strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort, ideal for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the WS Morandi from Wuque Studio is a linear switch known for its innovative design and visual aesthetics. Featuring a unique light-diffusing column and a UPE stem for smoothness, the Morandi switches offer a distinctive typing experience with a slightly muted 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
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
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Akko Penguin and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinctive sound profiles. While the Penguin uses nylon for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile with a duller and rounder sound, the WS Morandi utilizes POM for both top and bottom housing, creating a more muted and deeper sound. Despite the difference in materials, both switches offer a deep and pleasing sound experience that is sure to enhance the typing experience for users.
In terms of the top housing material, the Penguin's nylon and the WS Morandi's POM each bring their own unique qualities to the switches. The nylon top housing of the Penguin creates a softer and more absorbing sound profile, while the POM top housing of the WS Morandi contributes to a relatively more muted and deeper sound. These differences in sound may result in a slightly different typing experience for users, with the Penguin offering a fuller sound and the WS Morandi providing a deeper and more subdued sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing of the switches, both the Akko Penguin and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi feature housing materials that play a significant role in the overall sound profile of the switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Penguin contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, while the POM bottom housing of the WS Morandi enhances the muted and deep sound profile. Despite the difference in materials, both switches offer a top-notch typing experience with unique sound characteristics that cater to various preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, we find that the Penguin has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the WS Morandi's 50 grams. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 60 grams, making them equal in that aspect. The lighter actuation force of the Penguin may appeal to users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the WS Morandi's slightly heavier actuation force could provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko Penguin tactile switch is 3.3 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular as they offer faster response times, particularly favored by gamers. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users. Those who prefer a more abrupt feel when typing may opt for the Akko Penguin with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a bit more depth to their keystrokes may lean towards the Wuque Studio WS Morandi with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Morandi comes in at $3.90 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 is known for its muted and neutral characteristics, which produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. This makes it suitable for office environments or individuals seeking a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch offers a low-pitched, subdued, and thocky sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone with a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. While the Penguin focuses on minimizing noise, the WS Morandi aims to offer a more immersive and engaging auditory experience, catering to different user preferences.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Akko Penguin is described as polished, mild, feathery, and subtle. These qualities indicate a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance and a light actuation force, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi is characterized as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The Morandi switches prioritize a luxurious and premium typing feel, enhancing the overall smoothness and comfort during use.
In conclusion, the Akko Penguin and Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Penguin provides a more muted and neutral sound profile with polished and feathery keypresses, the Morandi offers a low-pitched, thocky sound output accompanied by buttery, creamy, and silky typing experiences. Depending on individual preferences for sound, tactile feedback, and typing smoothness, users can choose between the Akko Penguin for a quieter and softer typing experience or the Wuque Studio WS Morandi for a more engaging and luxurious feel. Ultimately, both switches provide a balance of functionality and aesthetics, catering to a variety of user needs in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, consider your priorities. If you value a quiet typing experience with a satisfying tactile feedback and medium actuation force, the Akko Penguin switches would be the ideal choice, especially for office environments where noise reduction is crucial. On the other hand, if you prefer a visually appealing switch with a smooth linear action, enhanced RGB effects, and a slightly more muted sound profile, the WS Morandi switches would be a fantastic option. Ultimately, it boils down to your preference for tactile feedback versus linear smoothness and aesthetic appeal. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different user preferences, so choose based on what aligns best with your typing style and environment.
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