Akko Penguin vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko Penguin tactile switch with the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, both offer unique features tailored to different preferences. The Akko Penguin is ideal for those working in quiet office environments, thanks to its silent tactile design and rounded bump that provides satisfying feedback without creating noise. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is perfect for those who prioritize smoothness, stability, and noise reduction while typing, thanks to its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko Penguin and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° differ significantly in terms of the sound profiles they produce. The Penguin, with its nylon top housing, creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The choice between these two materials ultimately comes down to personal preference, with nylon offering a duller and rounder sound while polycarbonate provides a clearer and more resonant sound.
Both the Penguin and the Zero Degree 0° feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to the overall sound profile and tactile feel of the switches. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when using either switch. Whether it's the Penguin or the Zero Degree 0°, the use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a consistent typing experience with a focus on producing a fuller sound profile.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it's important to note that the qualities of nylon and polycarbonate are divided between the top and bottom housings of each switch. The bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing primarily affects the sound when releasing a key. This distinction highlights the importance of having a well-balanced combination of housing materials, such as nylon and polycarbonate, to achieve the desired sound profile and tactile feedback in mechanical switches like the Akko Penguin and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°.
Weight
The Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Akko Penguin has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Zero Degree 0° with 45 grams, making the Akko Penguin slightly easier to trigger keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Akko Penguin has a heavier force of 60 grams compared to the Zero Degree 0° which has an unknown bottom out force. The Akko Penguin provides a more medium feel in terms of bottoming out, while the Zero Degree 0° force is unavailable. This means that the Akko Penguin may provide a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, while the Zero Degree 0° offers a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, the Penguin has a travel distance of 3.3mm while the Zero Degree 0° has a travel distance of 3.6mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. However, the 0.3mm difference between the two may be noticeable to some users. Those looking for a slightly deeper keypress may prefer the Gateron Zero Degree 0° with its longer travel distance, while those prioritizing quick and responsive keystrokes may lean towards the Akko Penguin tactile switch with its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a tactile typing experience with slightly different travel distances to cater to individual preferences.
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 Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 offers a muted and neutral typing experience, making it an excellent choice for those looking to minimize noise in a shared environment such as an office. The Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, on the other hand, does not have specific sound descriptors provided, but its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure are designed to absorb sound and reduce noise, resulting in a quieter typing experience overall. Both switches prioritize a quieter typing experience, so users can expect similar results in noise reduction when using either switch on a compatible keyboard setup.
When it comes to feel, the Akko Penguin switch is described as polished, mild, feathery, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. In comparison, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch does not have specific feel descriptors provided, but its smoothness and stability are emphasized, hinting at a comfortable typing experience with a focus on consistency and ease of use. While the specific tactile qualities may differ between the two switches, users can expect a comfortable and gentle typing experience with both switches, tailored to suit different preferences for typing feel.
In conclusion, the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch each offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in typing sound and feel. The Penguin excels in providing a quiet and tactile typing experience with a balanced tactile bump and medium weight, while the Zero Degree 0° emphasizes smoothness, stability, and reduced noise with its innovative design. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by prioritizing comfort, ease of use, and noise minimization, allowing users to choose based on their specific preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider the environment and your personal preference. Opt for the Akko Penguin if you prioritize a quiet typing experience, medium weight switches for comfort during long typing sessions, and a satisfying tactile feedback. On the other hand, choose the Gateron Zero Degree 0° for its innovative design that provides unparalleled smoothness, stability, and reduced noise, ideal for those who prefer a linear switch with a soft and elastic feel. Ultimately, your choice should align with your typing needs and the setting in which you'll be using your keyboard.
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