Akko Penguin vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko Penguin and HMX Xinhai offer distinct experiences for users. The Akko Penguin is a tactile switch designed for those seeking a quieter typing experience, making it ideal for office environments where noise reduction is a priority. With a medium weight and rounded tactile bump, the Penguin provides satisfying feedback without causing fatigue, perfect for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai is a linear switch known for its unique materials and construction, featuring a PA12 top housing and POM stem for a softer and crisper sound profile. While the Penguin excels in providing a quiet typing experience, the Xinhai offers a blend of sophistication and performance. 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
37g
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
3.40 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
The Akko Penguin and the HMX Xinhai both utilize nylon as the material for their top housing. This choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. However, the Xinhai differs in its use of polycarbonate for the top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Penguin. This difference in material highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Akko Penguin and the HMX Xinhai use nylon as the material. This commonality results in a consistent deep and full sound profile when typing on the switches, thanks to nylon's softer plastic composition that absorbs sound effectively. By using the same material for the bottom housing, both switches maintain a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. This similarity in housing material showcases how the bottom housing can play a crucial role in the overall typing experience of a switch.
While the top housing of the Akko Penguin and the HMX Xinhai may differ in material, with the Penguin using nylon and the Xinhai utilizing polycarbonate, the impact of the housing material on the sound profile remains significant. The Xinhai's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, especially beneficial for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Penguin's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, providing a different auditory experience for users. This contrast highlights how the choice of housing material can not only affect the sound but also contribute to the overall aesthetic and typing experience of a switch.
Weight
When comparing the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, a notable difference lies in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Akko Penguin has a higher actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai has a lower actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, classifying it as a lighter switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Xinhai would be the preferred choice due to its lower forces. However, individuals who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing may lean towards the Akko Penguin for its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference based on the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances, which are suitable for those looking for a quicker response time. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to most users, but those who are sensitive to these differences may prefer the Xinhai for its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the specific feel desired while typing or gaming.
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 HMX Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $2.99.
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, making it a great choice for those looking to minimize noise in office settings. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch offers a clacky sound, which is sharp and snappy. Depending on your preference, the Penguin will provide a softer and quieter typing experience, while the Xinhai will offer a more pronounced and percussive sound.
In terms of feel, the Akko Penguin switch is described as polished, mild, feathery, and subtle, providing a smooth, gentle, light, and comfortable typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai switch offers a bouncy and creamy sensation, giving a spring-like feedback and a smooth, buttery typing experience. Whether you prefer a more refined and light feel or a bouncy and buttery sensation, both switches provide unique qualities to cater to different preferences.
In conclusion, if you prioritize a quiet typing experience, the Akko Penguin switch is ideal with its muted sound profile and comfortable typing feel. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced and snappy sound with a bouncy and creamy typing sensation, the HMX Xinhai switch is the way to go. Both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that you'll get satisfying results based on your individual needs and preferences in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, you should consider your specific needs and preferences. If you value a silent typing experience and medium weight keys for comfortable extended use, the Akko Penguin switches are a great choice, especially for office environments where noise reduction is important. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter keypress and appreciate a unique acoustics profile with a crisp sound, the HMX Xinhai switches may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, both switches offer their own distinct qualities, so it's important to choose based on what aligns best with your typing style and environment.
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