Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering which mechanical keyboard switch to choose, you may find yourself torn between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Akko Penguin. The G Pro 3.0 Brown, a tactile switch from Gateron's budget-friendly G Pro series, offers a subtle tactile sensation with a gentle bump that enhances typing without being overpowering. The frosted light diffuser ensures vibrant RGB lighting for an immersive visual experience, while the medium-high pitch provides satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin is a silent tactile switch ideal for office environments where noise reduction is crucial. With a rounded tactile bump for satisfying feedback and medium weight for a balance of responsiveness and ease of use, the Penguin is perfect for extended typing sessions. However, let's dive deeper into the specifics of each switch to help you make the best choice for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the nylon top housing of the Akko Penguin. The polycarbonate material is known for being stiffer, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the nylon material used in the Penguin's top housing is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the G Pro 3.0 Brown's top housing is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Penguin's nylon top housing offers a classic feel and sound experience.
Both the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Akko Penguin feature a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. However, the differences in their top housing materials will still result in distinct sound characteristics when pressing down and letting go of the keys.
In summary, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Akko Penguin ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for showcasing RGB lighting, while the nylon top housing of the Penguin provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience in terms of sound. Whether you prefer a more resonant and clear sound or a deeper and fuller typing experience, both switches offer unique qualities to enhance your mechanical keyboard setup.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Akko Penguin tactile switch. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Penguin has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches fall within the medium weight range, providing a balanced typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Penguin, as it has a lower actuation force. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Brown with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired level of force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Penguin has a shorter travel distance compared to the G Pro 3.0 Brown. The 4.0mm travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Brown is more traditional, offering a deeper key press sensation, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the 3.3mm travel distance of the Penguin provides a shallower, quicker key press, which is favored by gamers for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the G Pro 3.0 Brown offering a longer travel distance for those who prefer more depth and the Akko Penguin providing a shorter travel distance for users seeking a faster, more responsive feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Brown for $2.77.
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.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch offers a medium-high pitch that provides a satisfying auditory feedback, enhancing the typing experience with an extra layer of joy. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is described as producing a muted sound, making it quieter compared to regular mechanical switches. This makes it an ideal choice for office environments where noise minimization is essential. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the G Pro Brown leaning towards a more audible feedback and the Penguin focusing on noise reduction.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch is known for its easy-to-press characteristics, offering a gentle resistance during key presses that require minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is described as providing a polished and feathery feel, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, it offers a gentle tactile bump that enhances the typing experience without causing strain on the fingers. Both switches offer a comfortable typing feel, with the G Pro Brown focusing on a responsive and low-impact experience, while the Penguin emphasizes a smooth and light actuation.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro Brown provides a medium-high pitch for a satisfying auditory feedback and an easy-to-press typing experience, while the Penguin offers a muted sound profile and a polished, feathery feel. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the G Pro Brown being more audible and responsive and the Penguin focusing on noise reduction and smooth key travel. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, either switch can provide a delightful mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch or the Akko Penguin tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a delightful tactile sensation and satisfying auditory feedback, the G Pro 3.0 Brown may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a silent typing experience with a balanced tactile bump and medium weight for prolonged use, the Akko Penguin switch could be the better choice. Consider the sound and feel characteristics described for each switch to determine which aligns best with your typing preferences and environment. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and it's up to you to decide which features are most important to enhance your typing experience.
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