Gateron Oil King vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Oil King and the Akko Penguin offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Oil King is a linear switch known for its buttery smoothness and pleasant sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin is a tactile switch designed for quiet environments, featuring a rounded tactile bump that provides satisfying feedback without disrupting those around you. The Penguin's medium weight strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions. While the Oil King is praised for its low-pitched and creamy feel, the Penguin is appreciated for its muted and subtle characteristics. Both switches have their own unique qualities that appeal to different typists, making it important to consider personal preferences and needs when choosing between the two. 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
55g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Oil King and Akko Penguin both feature nylon top housings, which create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches made with harder plastics. The similarities in the nylon top housings of these switches likely mean that users will experience a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
However, where the switches differ is in their bottom housings. The Oil King utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which produces a pointed and high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. On the other hand, the Penguin features a nylon bottom housing that provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its nylon top housing. This contrast in bottom housing materials may lead to noticeable differences in the typing experience between the two switches.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Oil King and Akko Penguin may come down to personal preference in sound and feel. While both switches share a nylon top housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound, the differences in their bottom housings could result in distinct typing experiences. Whether users prefer the clacky sound of Gateron's proprietary INK blend or the rounder sound of nylon, each switch offers its own unique characteristics for enthusiasts to consider.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, it is evident that the Penguin is the lighter option while the Oil King is the heavier one. The Oil King has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Penguin has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Penguin, as it requires less force for actuation. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Oil King. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their preference for force requirement when typing.
Travel distance
The Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch have different travel distances. The Oil King has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Penguin has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Oil King's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keypress for those who prefer a deeper feel, while the Penguin's shorter travel distance may be more appealing to gamers seeking faster response times. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distance, catering to individual preferences. In general, those seeking a quicker, more responsive keystroke may prefer the Penguin, while those looking for a more substantial keypress experience may opt for the Oil King. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and desired typing experience.
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 Oil King comes in at $6.50 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 Gateron Oil King linear switch provides a low-pitched and bassy tone, creating a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin tactile switch offers a muted and neutral sound, ensuring a softer and quieter typing experience suitable for office environments. Both switches have distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, giving users the option to choose based on their auditory preferences.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is described as creamy, silky, buttery, and polished, offering a smooth and effortless typing sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Akko Penguin tactile switch also boasts a polished feel, ensuring a sleek typing experience with reduced friction. Additionally, it provides a mild, feathery, and subtle typing feel, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. Both switches prioritize a smooth and refined typing experience, providing users with a comfortable and satisfying feel with each keystroke.
In conclusion, the Gateron Oil King linear switch excels in providing a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, along with a creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing feel. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin tactile switch offers a muted and neutral sound, coupled with a polished, mild, feathery, and subtle typing feel. Ultimately, both switches prioritize a smooth and refined typing experience, catering to users with varying preferences in sound and feel. Whether choosing the Oil King or the Penguin, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with similar results in terms of smoothness and comfort.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and buttery typing experience with a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, then the Gateron Oil King linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a rounded tactile bump and a muted, neutral sound profile, the Akko Penguin tactile switch would be a better fit. The Oil King is more suited for those who prioritize smoothness and a deeper sound, while the Penguin is perfect for those who value a quiet typing environment and a balanced typing feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the specific use case for your mechanical keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
